The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), Division of Family and Community Services, Office of Workforce Development, has released the Community Access and Workforce Readiness Initiative funding opportunity. This grant aims to support nonprofit community-based and faith-based organizations embedded in economically disadvantaged and historically marginalized communities. The goal is to assist participants in acquiring education, training, and employment-related skills to attain sustainable employment and self-sufficiency.

The total funding amount available is $3,000,000, sourced entirely from federal funds. IDHS anticipates awarding between 8 to 12 grants, with individual award amounts ranging from $150,000 to $850,000. The award will support employment and training programs targeting low-income, unemployed, or underemployed individuals, including those with justice system involvement. Services will include employability assessments, soft skills training, case management, job placement assistance, provision of weekly stipends during program participation, and supportive services such as transportation and childcare.

Applications must be submitted electronically to DHS.ETNOFO@illinois.gov by May 15, 2025, at 11:59 PM CST. The anticipated award announcement is scheduled for June 1, 2025, with program activities beginning no sooner than July 1, 2025, and running through June 30, 2026. A technical assistance session is not being offered for this funding opportunity. Applicants must be pre-qualified through the GATA Grantee Portal and registered with SAM.gov.

Applicants must demonstrate at least five years of experience providing similar services, strong community partnerships, and a history of serving high-poverty, high-unemployment areas. There are no cost-sharing or matching requirements for this grant. Eligible applicants must be private, not-for-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) status or public community-based organizations, including faith-based entities. Sub-recipient agreements, if used, must be pre-approved.

Evaluation criteria for applications include Executive Summary, Community Need, Capacity, Program Quality, and Budget Narrative. Program performance will be measured monthly and annually based on participant enrollments, employment outcomes, case file documentation, and participant service engagement. Applications must include the required narratives, a W-9 form, Conflict of Interest Disclosure, and a budget entered into the CSA system.