Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program
Application Deadline: Oct. 2, 2026
Program Details: Illinois Works is expanding DCEO’s statewide network of providers to recruit, prescreen, and provide pre-apprenticeship skills training. The program providers offer structured pathways and manage the program graduates' transition from the pre-apprenticeship program to a registered apprenticeship program in construction and the building trades.
ETIP - Strategic Sectors Single Company Grant
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Details: The ETIP Program aims to enhance employment opportunities for Illinois citizens by assisting Illinois employers in upgrading the technological skills of their workforce and introducing efficient business practices, allowing them to be more efficient and competitive and expand their market shares. The training and upgraded skills will help facilitate increases in employee earnings, future employment opportunities, and economic self-sufficiency.
Illinois Economic Empowerment Centers
Application Deadline: Rolling
Grant Description: The Illinois Economic Empowerment Centers program provides no-cost business development, mentorship, and technical assistance to entrepreneurs, startups, and very small businesses in historically underrepresented communities. Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the initiative features 10 regional centers across the state.
Small Business Development Centers
Application Deadline: Rolling
Grant Description: The Illinois Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) located throughout the state provide information, confidential business guidance, training, and other resources to start-up and existing small businesses. In addition, the Illinois SBDCs help clients with securing needed business capital, marketing, exporting, commercialization of new ideas, development of innovative products and services. Client projects range from early-stage, pre-revenue concepts to established business operations.
Federal Grant Support Program - Round 2
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Details: The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s (DCEO)’s Federal Grant Support Program will make $16.9 million available to Illinois-based proposals seeking competitive federal grants. This match program will encourage more applicants to apply for federal grant opportunities, provide critical assistance to meet the minimum match eligibility requirements, increase the competitiveness of applications, and provide the State of Illinois with an opportunity to make a firm commitment and demonstration of support for projects that are well aligned with the State’s economic development goals and priorities.
