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Regional Economic Development Northeast Region Newsletter

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Northeast Region Weekly Update

October 29, 2024


2024 DCEO BD Roadshow – two dates remaining in October! 

You are cordially invited to participate in the upcoming DCEO Roadshow, an exciting opportunity to connect with DCEO. This event is designed to bring together business leaders, local government officials, and community stakeholders to learn about the latest state programs, resources, and initiatives available to support economic development in your region.  We have more updates to our business development programs to share, new funding opportunities to unveil, and a discussion of the recently released 5-Year Economic Plan.  

A full list of dates, times, and locations is below.  Please register for the session you wish to attend through this link:  https://forms.office.com/g/QMZBY1ygxY 

Additional date added in the Northeast Region! Register at https://forms.office.com/g/QMZBY1ygxY

10/28/24 10 am – 12 pm at Elgin Community College, Building E

10/30/24 10:30 am – 12 pm Virtual Roadshow event.  To register directly for the virtual option on October 30th, you can use this link. 


Illinois Grocery Initiative – New Stores in Food Deserts Round 2 Grant

Round 2 of New Stores in Food Deserts Program will offer competitive grants to improve access to fresh food within food deserts by providing funding to establish grocery stores.  The Illinois Grocery Initiative New Stores in Food Deserts program, authorized by Public Act 103-0561, is intended to address the challenge of food deserts. Food deserts are census tracts meeting specific criteria related to poverty standards, population density, and limited fresh food accessibility. This program aims to combat food insecurity by offering competitive grants to support the establishment of new grocery stores in these areas by reimbursing successful applicants for eligible capital and non-capital costs.  In Round 2 of this program, $11 million is available to fund these grants.

 

Awards can range between $150K to $2.4M, with a 1:3 match requirement from businesses. Requirements for grocery locations include: 

    Must be or will be best classified as a supermarket or other grocery retailer in the 2022 North American Industry Classification System under code 445110, a meat retailer under code 44524, a fruit and vegetable retailer under code 44523, or a fish and seafood retailer under 44525.

    Must be located in a food desert census tract (as defined in the NOFO), 

    Must earn less than 30% of revenue from alcohol and tobacco sales, 

    Must accept SNAP and WIC, and 

    Must contribute to diversity of fresh foods available in community. 


Qualified entities include units of local government and independent grocers or cooperatives with fewer than 500 employees and no more than four grocery locations. New Stores in Food Deserts grants will fund construction and renovation costs for new stores, as well as many first-year operations costs, such as employee wages, utility costs, initial inventory of food, and more.  


 DCEO has contracted with Western Illinois University (WIU) and Chicago State University (CSU) to provide technical assistance services for Illinois Grocery Initiative applicants and grantees. Applicants desiring assistance in preparing applications may contact these institutions directly.  Their contact information is listed in the NOFO

 

To view the competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) and apply for the grant, please visit the DCEO website here . Application deadline December 2, 2024.  


Low Income Energy Home Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) released information about this year's Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to support income eligible households with utility costs. LIHEAP will begin accepting applications on October 1, 2024, through August 15, 2025, or until funds are exhausted.


Beginning October 1, 2024, eligible families can apply by visiting helpillinoisfamilies.com or by visiting their local agency (a list of partners throughout the state can be found here). Families can also call 1-833-711-0374 for assistance in 30 languages.


The priority application system will ensure families most in need are able to apply first. The first group eligible to apply is expected to represent more than half of households that apply for the program. The program will begin taking applications on October 1, 2024, for (i) older adults (60 years +), (ii) individuals with a disability, (iii) families with children five years old or younger and (iv) households that are disconnected from their utilities, have a disconnection notice or have less than 25% in their propane tank. All other income eligible households can start applying November 1, 2024.


LIHEAP provides one-time payments directly to energy service providers on behalf of recipients. While the amount of support varies based on the needs of individual families, last year over 333,000 households received LIHEAP, with an average of over $724 per household.

All families who meet the qualifications and provide proper documentation will receive support until funding is exhausted. Families who earn up to two times the federal poverty level are eligible to receive support through LIHEAP. A chart with eligible income thresholds can be found on the webpage. 


CEJA Updates

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is pleased to announce the release of three Notices of Funding Opportunities for the following programs: 

    The Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program creates 13 regional Clean Jobs Workforce Hubs (“Workforce Hubs”) throughout the State to provide clean energy and related workforce and training opportunities to participants. The program will serve people living in equity eligible communities. Robust barrier reduction funding is available for participants who experience barriers to employment. Community-based organizations that provide employment, skill development or related services, and that have demonstrated relationships with residents and organizations serving the community are invited to apply. At this time, the Department is accepting applications from Carbondale, Danville, and Peoria. APPLICATION LINK. Applications are due December 2, 2024.

    The Energy Transition Navigator Program will provide grants to community-based providers to serve as Energy Transition Navigator Teams to recruit eligible individuals to participate in the Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program and the Illinois Climate Works Pre-apprenticeship Program. At this time, the Department is accepting applications from Champaign. APPLICATION LINK. Applications are due December 2, 2024.

    The Returning Residents Clean Jobs Training Program will provide grants to organizations to train people who are incarcerated in the Illinois Department of Corrections facilities. Participants will receive essential employability skills training as part of vocational or occupational training. The training will lead to certifications or credentials that prepare candidates for employment. The Returning Resident Program will use a standard Clean Jobs Curriculum for Returning Residents. At this time, the Department is accepting applications from organizations proposing to serve the following correctional facilities: Western Illinois Correctional Center and Vienna Correctional center. APPLICATION LINK. Applications are due November 26, 2024.


Take advantage of opportunities to receive one-on-one technical assistance and resources to learn more about the program.

    Sign up for a one-on-one technical assistance session with a CEJA program coach.   

    Review the August 28th NOFO Outreach Session for the Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program and ET Navigator Program HERE

    Review the September 25th NOFO Outreach Session for the Returning Residents Clean Jobs Training Program HERE

    Check the FAQ for Applicants, where you can find the answers to questions that have come up in the past

    Submit questions about the program and the application process via e-mail to ceo.ceja@illinois.gov. 


If you haven’t already, please sign up for our mailing list HERE, so you can receive updates in your email as they are announced.


Finally, stay tuned to the DCEO CEJA Updates and Program Status page for additional announcements and program information.


Apprenticeship Illinois 2024 Employer Events


LUNCH AND LEARN WEBINARS

The Apprenticeship Expansion webinar series includes presentations from workforce partners from different state agencies and apprenticeship stakeholders to highlight best practices for collaboration on the development of registered apprenticeship programs. In combining these guest webinars with a core curriculum that emphasizes expediency, equity, creativity, and thoughtful partnership for apprenticeship outreach and registration, the Apprenticeship Illinois team aims to cultivate a cohort of apprenticeship professionals.


Date    Webinar Topic 

November 12, 2024    National Apprenticeship Week: Showcasing successful programs developed from grants


December 10, 2024    Yearly Health Check-Up: Reflections and Advice from Illinois Healthcare Apprenticeships




National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) is a nationwide celebration that brings together business and labor leaders, career seekers, educational institutions, and critical partners to demonstrate their support for apprenticeships. Apprenticeship Illinois will celebrate Apprenticeship Week 2024 this November 17-23rd by hosting a range of in-person and virtual events and amplifying local and regional celebrations of apprenticeships. This week allows apprenticeship sponsors across the state to showcase programs, facilities, and apprentices in their community. It provides employers and future apprentices who are curious about apprenticeships with a way to learn about the benefits that come from learning and earning.  The National Apprenticeship Week events will be posted on the apprenticeship Illinois website. Please let us know of any events in your area and promote NAW within your network. www.ApprenticeshipIllinois.com. If you have any questions or ideas, please feel free to contact Jennifer Foil at jfoil@niu.edu. 


 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced $26.5 million in funding for the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) for Public Infrastructure and Housing Rehabilitation. Grantees will be selected through a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) process.


Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for Public Infrastructure

Public infrastructure grants are designed to provide communities with funding to improve public infrastructure, public health and quality of life. These projects include construction of storm sewer pipes, waterline replacements, and water storage tank construction, and other critical projects that help mitigate flooding and support sewage management, water delivery and other public water necessities.


Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for Housing Rehabilitation

Housing rehabilitation grants are designed to assist low-to-moderate income homeowners with improvements to ensure safe and sanitary living conditions. Eligible uses of funds include structural work, lead remediation, electrical, plumbing, new appliances, flooring, ADA, and accessibility accommodations, and more.


An additional $1.9 million is available for Economic Development projects funded by the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) on an as-needed basis. This grant funding opportunity includes up to $1 million for economic development projects. This includes construction, reconstruction, and installation or rehabilitation of commercial or industrial buildings, structures and other real property.


Eligible applicants can apply for Public Infrastructure grants from $300,000 to $1 million and Housing Rehabilitation grants from $300,000 to $650,000. Applications for both grants will be accepted until December 4, 2024, at 5 p.m. Applications for economic development funding will be accepted on a rolling basis. Applicants can view the Public Infrastructure and Housing and apply for the grants, on the DCEO website.


Illinois Works Bid Credit Program

Contractors or subcontractors that employ apprentices that have completed the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program on any project (stated or privately funded) are eligible to earn bid credits they can use to make their bids for future state-funded public works projects more competitive. The Illinois Works Bid Credit Program provides bid credits for both hiring and retaining graduates.


For general program questions, please contact the Illinois Works Bid Credit Program at CEO.BidCreditProgram@illinois.gov. If you’re a state agency seeking information regarding the Bid Credit Program, email Rebecca Bailey, Senior Bid Credit Program Manager at Rebecca.j.bailey@illinois.gov. For additional information, please download the Bid Credit Program One sheeter. To view application information and apply for the Bid Credit Program, please visit the DCEO website.


Interested in joining the Illinois Works Bid Credit Program?

If you are a contractor or subcontractor and are interested in registering for the Bid Credit Program, complete the Contractor Registration Form today!

Learn more about the Bid Credit Program at an upcoming information webinar.  


*Recordings of our past webinars can be found on the Illinois Works Bid Credit Program Partner Guide.


Office of Accountability

Curious about the grant lifecycle or wanting to learn more about the different facets of grants? Do you have a grant-related question that you would like answered in real time? DCEO is pleased to offer three training options for current and potential grantees. Interested in participating in a training session? Sign up here

Virtual Office Hour Q & A - Tuesdays at 2pm:

Join for a virtual question and answer session via Webex in which potential and current Grantees may attend to ask questions and seek assistance. Technical Support Managers will be online to field questions, demonstrate steps, or provide instructions as needed to assist entities and individuals with the grant process. 

Pre-Qualification Training – 1st Wednesday of the month 9AM:

This slide presentation will cover Pre-Qualification requirements. Pre-qualification is required of all grantees with the State of Illinois and must be maintained throughout a grant program. To be in pre-qualified status means that all required registrations have been met and an entity is in good standing and able to conduct business with the State of Illinois. Join DCEO’s Technical Support Team as we explain each step in the pre-qualification process and how to get started. 

Various topics Training – 3rd Wednesday of the month 9AM:

This slide presentation will discuss important grant-related topics pertaining to grant management. Each month we will discuss a different component, process, or emerging practice that can benefit potential and existing grantees. Future topics offerings include:

    11/20/24 Writing A Grant Application: This training will explain how to complete application documents, how to read a Notice of Funding Opportunity, and how to submit the application package for review.

    12/18/24 Audit Submissions: This training will introduce grantees to the different Audit types, requirements, and the importance of record retention.


For a complete list of current DCEO grant opportunities, upcoming grant trainings, video resource library and Grant Help Desk assistance, visit DCEO Grants (illinois.gov)

Grant opportunities include:

CDBG Coronavirus Healthy Houses Program – Click here Deadline November 6, 2024

CDBG Coronavirus Rural Shelter Program - Click here Deadline November 14, 2024

Illinois Grocery Initiative New Stores in Food Deserts – Click here Deadline December 2, 2024

CDBG Public Infrastructure – Click here Deadline December 4, 2024

CDBG Housing Rehabilitation – Click here Deadline December 4, 2024

Quality Jobs Program - Click here Deadline December 31, 2024

Equitable Energy Future Grant Program – Click here Deadline December 31, 2024

SBIR/STTR Match Program - Click here Deadline June 30, 2025

Illinois Returning Residents Clean Jobs (CEJA) - Click here Deadline Rolling

Federal Grant Support Program - Click here  No specific due date but must submit at least 3 weeks ahead of federal application

CDBG Economic Development Program - Click here Deadline Rolling


Other Federal and State Agency Grants & Programs


Illinois EPA Driving a Cleaner Illinois – VW Round 7 – Transit Buses 

SPRINGFIELD —Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) Acting Director James Jennings announced a $27 million Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the replacement of existing public transit buses with new all-electric transit options. Grant awards will cover 75% of the eligible cost per electric transit bus and any necessary charging infrastructure, with a minimum award amount of $300,000. Eligible applicants include government and transit agencies that own and operate public transit buses in any of the three priority areas outlined in the Volkswagen Beneficiary Mitigation Plan (BMP) and further described below. This funding opportunity will remain open until funding is depleted with grants awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis.


As outlined in Illinois’ BMP for the Volkswagen diesel emissions settlement, and as specified in the NOFO, Illinois EPA will fund projects in the following priority areas:


• Priority Area 1: Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties, Oswego Township in Kendall County, and Aux Sable and Goose Lake townships in Grundy County.

• Priority Area 2: Madison, Monroe, and St. Clair Counties.

• Priority Area 3: Champaign, DeKalb, LaSalle, McLean, Peoria, Sangamon, and Winnebago Counties.


Government/transit agencies that own and operate public transit buses in one of the three priority areas are eligible to apply. Purchased buses must serve within one of the three priority areas. Existing diesel buses to be replaced (scrapped), must meet the following criteria:


• Currently operating in the transit fleet

• Engine Model Year 2009 and older diesel-powered Class 4 – 8 transit buses; and

• Must be scrapped within 90 days of the new buses being placed into service.


Illinois EPA’s BMP focuses the State’s VW allocation on electric transportation and infrastructure. The goals of the plan include reducing nitrogen oxide emissions in areas where the affected VW vehicles were registered. The BMP also takes into consideration areas that do not meet federal air quality standards for ozone and bear a disproportionate share of the air pollution burden, including environmental justice areas.


The link to the Notice of Funding Opportunity can be found on the Driving A Cleaner Illinois webpage: https://epa.illinois.gov/topics/air-quality/driving-a-cleaner-illinois.html. Applications for the Driving a Cleaner Illinois – Volkswagen All-Electric School Buses NOFO will be accepted until funding is depleted.


Illinois Disaster Declaration for Severe Weather and Flooding

United States President Joseph R. Biden signed a federal Major Disaster Declaration authorizing the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Individual Assistance program for Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will, and Winnebago County. FEMA’s Individual Assistance could include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the severe weather the state experienced on July 13 through July 16, 2024.


The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security is working closely with local and county Emergency Management agencies to provide additional services to those affected by severe weather.

Disaster survivors and businesses who sustained damages in the Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will, and Winnebago Counties can begin applying for Disaster Assistance:


    Calling 800-621-3362 (FEMA) or

    Apply online at disasterassistance.gov


Disaster Recovery Centers will be open soon in all seven counties with more opportunities for disaster survivors to engage with FEMA representatives on the disaster application process. Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS): Ready.Illinois.gov


Relief Available to July Storm Victims in Illinois 

Multiple Tax Deadlines Postponed to Feb. 3, 2025

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Revenue announced disaster tax relief for individuals and businesses in parts of Illinois affected by severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding that began on July 13, 2024. 

Affected taxpayers now have until February 3, 2025, to file various state individual and business tax returns and make tax payments.  

Relief is being offered to any area designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Currently, this includes Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will, and Winnebago counties. Individuals and households that reside or have a business in any one of these localities qualify for income tax relief. The same relief will be available to any county added later to the disaster area.

The tax relief postpones various income tax filings and payment deadlines that occurred beginning on July 13, 2024, and ending on Feb. 3, 2025 (postponement period). As a result, affected individuals and businesses will have until Feb. 3, 2025, to file returns and pay any income taxes that were originally due during this period. 

This means, for example, that the Feb. 3, 2025, deadline will now apply to: 

    Quarterly estimated income tax payments normally due on Sept. 16, 2024, and Jan. 15, 2025.

    Quarterly payroll and excise tax returns normally due on July 31, Oct. 31, 2024, and Jan. 31, 2025. 

Please note: Any individual, business or tax-exempt organization that had a valid extension to file their 2023 federal return are NOT eligible for the extra time because they were due last spring before the storms occurred.


Sales and excise taxes and the Motor Fuel Use Tax (IFTA) are NOT included. For storm relief questions related to IFTA, please email REV.IFTA@illinois.gov.


Penalties for failing to make payroll tax deposits due on or after July 13, 2024, and before July 29, 2024, will be abated, as long as the deposits were made by July 29, 2024. 


If filing a return via postal mail, impacted taxpayers should write "July 2024-Storms" on the top of their returns in red.  If filing electronically, taxpayers must notify the department that their return will be delayed by emailing REV.DisasterRelief@Illinois.gov.  They should provide their full name, account number (if using a social security number, only include the last four digits), mailing address, and an estimate of when they believe they can file or pay their taxes.


If impacted taxpayers have already been billed for penalties, they should email REV.DisasterRelief@Illinois.gov. and provide their name, business name, account number(s), and the periods for which they filed late due to the storms in order to request penalty abatement. Taxpayers should be sure to include “July 2024 Storms” in any communications with the department requesting relief.


Illinois Department of Employment Security Returning Citizens Virtual Job Fair

Illinois Department of Employment Security, New York University, and Illinois Department of Corrections would like to invite you to participate in a Virtual Job Fair Highlighting your Company and Job Opportunities to Returning Citizens to the Southern Illinois Area. 


Webinar topic: Re-Entry Virtual Job Fair 

Date and time: Thursday, October 31st 1:00 - 3:00 PM 

Register: Registration is required. Email Freddie.L.Buckingham@illinois.gov or call (618) 214-0161


Illinois EPA Announces Expanded Eligibility for Energy Efficiency Grants

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Acting Director James Jennings announced the expansion of two energy efficiency grant opportunities. The Energy Efficiency Assessment Program and the Energy Efficiency Trust Fund Program provide funding for energy efficiency assessments and upgrade projects at eligible properties serving residents receiving housing assistance. These grant programs will now accept applications statewide for single-family residential and multifamily properties with up to 20 dwelling units serving residents receiving housing assistance.


The Energy Efficiency Assessment Program and the Energy Efficiency Trust Fund Grant Program give organizations the tools to identify renovations that will improve both energy efficiency and comfort of the buildings and then fund those projects. Eligible applicants include public housing authorities, units of local governments, or nonprofit organizations throughout Illinois that serve residents using housing assistance programs. Both programs will make awards on a first-come, first-serve basis and will remain open until funds are depleted. For eligibility and application information, visit:


• Energy Efficiency Assessment Program https://epa.illinois.gov/topics/energy/energy-efficiency/energy-efficiency-assessment-program.html  Send EE Assessment Program questions to Rebecca Luke, Office of Energy - Energy Projects Coordinator at Rebecca.J.Luke@Illinois.gov. 


• Energy Efficiency Trust Fund Grant Program https://epa.illinois.gov/topics/energy/energy-efficiency/energy-efficiency-trust-fund-grant.html  Still have questions? Review the FAQ Document Link OR send EE Trust Fund Grant Program questions to Rebecca Luke, Office of Energy - Energy Projects Coordinator at Rebecca.J.Luke@Illinois.gov


Before applying to the grant program, applicants must be pre-qualified through the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Grantee Portal, https://gata.illinois.gov/.


For more information about these grant programs and other Office of Energy efforts to increase energy efficiency and resiliency please visit https://epa.illinois.gov/topics/energy.html


Illinois EPA Green Infrastructure Grant

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Interim Director James Jennings announced a grant opportunity with $5 million in funding for projects that will improve water quality in Illinois. The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is posted at https://il.amplifund.com/Public/Opportunities/Details/45aeb4c5-055a-4441-aeb8-d49eae66772b.


The GIGO Program seeks proposals for projects containing green infrastructure best management practices (BMPs) that prevent, eliminate, or reduce stormwater runoff, reducing localized or riverine flooding in Illinois’ rivers, streams, and lakes. Projects that implement treatment trains (multiple BMPs in series) and/or multiple BMPs within the same watershed are encouraged as they may be more effective and efficient than a single large green infrastructure BMP. BMPs may be located on public or private land.


For the GIGO program, green infrastructure is defined as any stormwater management technique or practice employed with the primary goal to preserve, restore, mimic, or enhance natural hydrology. Green infrastructure includes, but is not limited to, methods of using soil and vegetation to promote soil percolation, evapotranspiration, and filtering or the harvesting and reuse of precipitation. Examples of project types/BMPs that may be funded through GIGO are provided in the NOFO. Illinois EPA anticipates project awards between $75,000 and $2.5 million.


Applications for the GIGO Program are due by noon on November 20, 2024, at 12:00 PM (CST). Additional information is available at: https://epa.illinois.gov/topics/grants-loans/water-financial-assistance/gigo.html. Applicants must apply for GIGO through the GATA Grantee Portal.


Are You Ready for the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA)? 

Presented by the Office of the Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias’ Business Services Department 

Wednesday, December 4, 2024 | 1:00 PM | virtual | Register here

Effective January 1, 2024, a new federal law requires many companies doing business in the State of Illinois to 

report information to the U.S. government about who ultimately owns and controls them. This information is 

reported to the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). Please join 

the Illinois Secretary of State’s office for a discussion of these new beneficial ownership information reporting 

requirements and what businesses need to do to comply with the law. They will also share resources FinCEN has 

developed to help businesses understand this new requirement. 

For more information contact Kim Aileen at AKim@ILSOS.GOV. 


Helpful Resources


Grant Help Desk Resources

DCEO Office of Accountability

    Office Hours for Grantees – Office of Accountability is hosting a weekly office hour every Tuesday 

from 2-3pm for any questions grantees or potential grantees may have. 

o    Sign up for any of these sessions with this link

    Email Us:

o    ceo.granthelp@illinois.gov

o    Or use our Inquiry Form: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/df9d38efa4e241218ced486c54f3c109 

    Visit Our Website:

o    https://dceo.illinois.gov/aboutdceo/grantopportunities.html

o    Video Training & Resources Library Video Training & Resources (illinois.gov)


Grant Accountability and Transparency (GATA) 

    GATA Grantee Portal: https://grants.illinois.gov/portal/ 

    GATA Grantee Portal New User Guide: https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/GATA/Documents/Resource%20Library/GATA%20New%20User%20Guide.pdf 

    GATU Resource Site: https://gata.illinois.gov/ 

    Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA): https://gata.illinois.gov/grants/csfa.html 

    DCEO Current Grant Opportunities: https://dceo.illinois.gov/aboutdceo/grantopportunities/grants.html 


Audit Report Review Process Manual: https://gata.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/gata/documents/audit/audit-manual-august-2018-revision.pdf




Workforce Development – Office of Employment & Training

The Office of Employment and Training supports innovative workforce programs and career, training and employment services that connect employers to a highly skilled workforce.  Providing assistance and resources for job seekers is central to Illinois’ commitment to ensuring that businesses thrive in our state.

Programs and services:

    Illinois workNet®

    WIOA Works Illinois

    Apprenticeship Illinois

    Trade Adjustment Assistance Program (TAA)

    WIOA Success Stories

    More Programs and Resources

    Illinois Workforce Development System (IWDS)

    Climate and Equitable Jobs Act


American Rescue Plan (ARPA) for Non-Entitlement Units of Local Government (NEU)

Do you have questions about ARPA? Check out the Technical Assistance page on our DCEO website. Click here

August 8, 2024 - offices hours presentation slides Click here

FAQs: View frequently asked questions about this program.

Need help? To ask a question or request a support call, contact the NEU Support Team at either ILARPA@crowe.com or CEO.CURE@illinois.gov. To ask a question about the U.S Treasury Reporting Portal, please contact covidreliefITsupport@treasury.gov.


DCEO Website – https://dceo.illinois.gov

The Illinois DCEO website includes a page dedicated to current state and federal grant opportunities as well as Grantee resources. Click here to find valuable information!


Join DCEO’s Team

DCEO’s Team is expanding around the state, including on Team RED.  To apply for these jobs, please go to the Work4Illinois website at  https://illinois.jobs2web.com/ and use the search function to find the positions for our department. 

Posting closing 10/28/2024

CEJA SMALL BUSINESS MANAGER – Office of Entrepreneurship, Innovations & Technology – Sangamon County

Posting closing 10/30/24

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SPECIAL POPULATIONS PROGRAM MANAGER (PSA, OPT SS) – Office of Employment and Training – Cook County

PROGRAM GRANT ADMINISTRATOR– Office of Grants Management  – Sangamon County

Posting closing 10/31/24

FISCAL ADMINISTRATOR (EXECUTIVE II) – Office of Trade and Investment – Sangamon County

GRANTS MANAGER (EXEC II) – Office of Grants Management – Sangamon County

EXTERNAL REQUIREMENTS COMPLIANCE TECH (EXEC II) – Office of Grants Management – Sangamon County

Posting closing 11/1/24

GRANTS MANAGER (EXEC II) – Office of Grants Management – Sangamon County

EXTERNAL REQUIREMENTS COMPLIANCE TECH (EXEC II) – Office of Grants Management – Sangamon County

Posting closing 11/5/24

DEPUTY CHIEF INTERNAL AUDITOR (SPSA, OPT 1) – Office of Internal Audits – Sangamon County




Following DCEO & Connecting with Team RED

If you have upcoming meetings or events and would like DCEO to participate, please reach out to us. Follow us on our social media channels for real time updates.

Facebook: @illinoisdceo

LinkedIn: Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity


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