Press Release: Release Date: 07-21-25

Eligible entities can now apply for the fifth round of funding through Illinois Works

CHICAGO – Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced applications are now open for the fifth round of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program. The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program provides training opportunities, expands the talent pipeline, and boosts diversity in the construction industry and building trades. Grantees will be selected through a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) process.

“Since 2021, the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program has helped thousands of Illinoisans gain access to good-paying jobs in the construction and building trades,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I am proud to expand this program to bring even more opportunities to workers who embody the best parts of Illinois—diversity, drive, and dedication to serve our state and the people who call it home.”

“With these grants, we’re continuing to build real pathways to high paying, family-sustaining careers that don’t require a four-year college degree,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “This is about making sure young people—as well as women, people of color and others who have long been underrepresented in the trades—can access the kinds of jobs that keep Illinois running. The Pritzker-Stratton administration is investing in the people who will power our economy for years to come and making sure no one gets left out of that future.”

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