Grant Opportunities and Information

Grant Resources or Guidance

Guidance for Student Stipends within Grant Programs

Payment Requests

Please send all payment requests to: ICCB.grantpayments@illinois.gov
Payment Request Form

Grant Documents

GATA

NON GATA

GATA & Non-GATA

Closeout Equipment Reporting

Budget Mods

Programmatic Risk Assessment

FY26 Illinois Adult Education and Literacy Professional Development Network

This is a new renewal grant that needs to be published on the main Grant page with this description:
FY26 Illinois Adult Education and Literacy Professional Development Network(Renewal) ICCB will provide $360,000 in grant funding opportunities to be administered to support the Professional Development Network and the Adult Education Hotline.

The grant objectives are as follows:

To enhance the quality of English Language Acquisition instruction and support across Illinois through Professional development, technical integration for WIOA Title II providers.

To provide technical assistance for assessments approved by the National Reporting System.

Deliver evidence-based reading instruction, maintain and promote the Adult Education Hotline for ICCB-funded Adult Education Programs.

Grant Period: July 1, 2025- June 30, 2026.

Application Package Due Date/Time: June 27th, 2025, 5:00 p.m.

Submit Renewal Application via Amplifund.

Questions are to be submitted to: Kathy.Olesen-Tracey@illinois.gov

Application Materials:

NOFO

FY26 Workforce Empowerment Initiative Grant

This opportunity supports the continuation of existing programming under the WEI to serve disproportionately impacted communities, with a targeted focus on underrepresented communities and individuals. The WEI aims to expand access for learners who have traditionally been excluded from workforce opportunities, faced limited pathways to postsecondary education or career advancement, and have been systematically underrepresented in high demand and high wage industries.

The Workforce Empowerment Initiative provides individuals with the opportunity to attain a college credential in a high demand sector/industry to access jobs that pay 30% above the regional living wage or on an educational pathway leading to 30% above the regional living wage.. The purpose of this grant is to create, support, or expand short-term (one year or less) workforce (credit and/or noncredit) training opportunities in high-need communities focused on specific sectors with identified workforce gaps. Short-term credentials of one year or less can be a college certificate and/or an industry recognized credential.

Eligibility: Only current FY2025 WEI grant recipients are eligible to submit a Continuation Plan.

Grant period: July 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026.

Applications Due: June 11, 2025: 11:59 PM CST via email to iccb.submitrfp@illinois.gov

Lead Contact Person: Jennifer K Foster, Deputy Executive Director

Bidder’s Conference: May 15, 2025, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm.
Meeting Link: https://illinois.webex.com/illinois/j.php?MTID=m1c3f5598a4c327cbe5eba8f55dc876dd. Meeting number: 2861 908 0858. Meeting password: s6Z4ZvSu4tp

Submit Application Package to: iccb.submitrfp@illinois.gov

Questions are to be submitted to: iccb.submitrfp@illinois.gov

Application Materials:

Resources:

SFY 2026 Rev Up EV Community College Initiative (Electric Vehicle Technology Grant – Continuation Funding

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) is inviting eligible applicants to apply for the SFY2026 Rev Up EV Community College Initiative – Continuation Funding, a non-competitive opportunity. The grant prioritizes education and training programs that span across the EV Technology occupational continuum from development and production to maintenance of Electric Vehicles, as well as installation and maintenance of critical infrastructure. An added core focus of these continuation funds is the support of students in EV programs training in areas that are most in demand by EV business and industry partners.
Grant award range: $100,000-$350,000.

Eligible Applicants: Community colleges in the State of Illinois that have been awarded Rev Up EV funds in FY24 or FY25 are invited to submit proposals under this NOFO. New applicant requests will not be accepted by ICCB. See eligibility guidelines in the NOFO.

Applications Due: Monday, June 9, 2025 @ 5P.M. CST.

Grant Contact: Dana Wynn-Stockert, Director for Clean Energy Programs (dana.wynn@illinois.gov)

Questions: Please send all questions to ICCB.cte@illinois.gov. No questions will be answered to individual entities but will be posted as an FAQ page.

Bidder’s Conference (optional): Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 1P.M. CST; https://illinois.webex.com/illinois/j.php?MTID=m1b379416bd470d69e6b83cb1cf607df7 ; Webinar number/Access Code: 2866 100 1680

Attached, you will find:

FY2026 Rev Up EV Community College Initiative (Electric Vehicle Technology Grant) – Continuation Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).
Project overview template – This template provides a snapshot of the proposed project and is inclusive of program offerings and accountability metrics. Applicants are to propose quantifiable outcomes for the performance of their grant projects.
Program Offerings Chart – This chart provides a list of education programs effected by this project.
Rev Up EV definitions
Bidder’s Conference Video

Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education (IELCE) Competitive Grant – FY26 Renewal Year

This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) reflects the renewal period of the IELCE Competitive Grant for FY26. This opportunity is available to currently funded IELCE providers. The purpose of IELCE is to provide services to:

English Language Learners, including individuals with degrees and credentials from their native countries, to support their acquisition of English language proficiency, civics knowledge, and the workforce skills necessary to participate fully as parents, workers, and citizens.
Programs must also support transition into in-demand occupations and integrate activities with the local workforce development system.
IELCE program components include:
Literacy/English Language Acquisition
Civics Education.
Workforce Preparation (Bridge)
Integrated Education and Training / Integrated Career & Academic Preparation System (ICAPS).

Note: This Notice of Funding will provide Federal IELCE funding for State Fiscal year 2025 through State Fiscal Year 2026 and provides funding to carry out the expectations of IELCE – WIOA Section 243. Required deliverables, allowable activities, performance measures, and requirements for submitting a Request for Proposal are described throughout this NOFO. All funding is based on Federal appropriations.

Renewal funding for FY26 is contingent on the continued implementation of high-quality programming, successful completion of Year-End Report Card reviews, and active engagement with ICCB staff to address any targeted areas for improvement. The criteria for renewal eligibility are outlined in the IELCE Provider’s Guide.

Grant Period: The grant period is from Initial: July 1st, 2025 – June 30th, 2026.

Application Due Date: Programs will be required to submit their applications via Amplifund by 5:00 p.m on May 30th, 2025.

Program Lead: Contact Mark Mesle, Director for Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education with questions: mark.mesle@illinois.gov.

Submit the complete application, signature pages, and budget via Amplifund.
The following documents have been provided to support your application development. All remaining documents are in Amplifund.

NOFO
Resource: Amplifund instructional video: https://youtu.be/IdRaN3hyuZc
IELCE Bidder’s Conference

Adult Education and Literacy Competitive Grant – FY26 Renewal

This Request for Proposal (RFP) is issued to support the continuation of services funded under the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (AEFLA), Title II of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014, for State Fiscal Year 2026. This renewal grant is available only to eligible providers that were awarded funding through the FY25 competitive grant process

The purpose of this grant is to ensure continuity of services aligned with the goals of WIOA Title II, which include:

Assisting adults in becoming literate and gaining the knowledge and skills necessary for employment and self-sufficiency.
Supporting adults who are parents or family members in attaining the educational skills needed to:

- Act as full partners in their children’s education; and
- Improve their family’s long-term economic prospects.

Helping adults earn a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent and transition to postsecondary education and training through career pathways; and
Supporting immigrants and English language learners in:
- - Improving English language and mathematics skills; and
  - Developing an understanding of the American government system, individual freedoms, and responsibilities of citizenship

This renewal funding supports programs operating under:
• Section 231: Adult Education and Literacy Activities, and/or
• Section 225: Corrections Education and Other Institutionalized Individuals

Eligibility: Only FY25-funded providers are eligible to apply for this renewal.

Grant Period: July 1st, 2025 – June 30th, 2026
Application Deadline: Applications must be submitted through Amplifund by 5:00 p.m. on May 30th, 2025.

Contact: For questions, contact Dr. Kathy Olesen-Tracey, Senior Director for Adult Education and Literacy, at Kathy.Olesen-Tracey@illinois.gov.

Applicants must submit a completed renewal application, updated budget, and signature pages in Amplifund.

The following documents have been provided to support your application development. All remaining documents are in Amplifund:

NOFO
Resource: Amplifund instructional video: https://youtu.be/IdRaN3hyuZc
FY26 AEFLA Renewal Grant Bidder’s Conference

FY2025 IELCE Supplemental Support Funds Grant

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) is pleased to offer $1.3 million in supplemental funding to support existing Title II IELCE programs for FY2025.
These funds aim to:

Provide professional development, and support innovative projects aligned with IELCE objectives.
Expand Integrated Education and Training (IET) services,
Enhance instructional materials and technology,

Grant period: July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.

Applications due: December 15, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. via email to Mark Mesle at mark.mesle@illinois.gov.

Lead contact person : Mark Mesle – Director for IELCE.

Application materials:

Homelessness and Housing Insecurity Support Pilot Project

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) is inviting eligible applicants to participate in the Homelessness and Housing Insecurity Support Pilot Project by applying for grants, which are GATA-exempt (as noted on the title page), of up to $25,000 per institution. ICCB will fund a minimum of 10 grants to selected community colleges to support the development of pilot programs to respond to the specific needs of students experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.

The grant objectives are as follows:

Develop campus-level activities related to student outreach efforts, training for HOUSE Liaisons and other campus staff, and/or efforts to deepen collaboration across campus divisions to increase support for students.
Create direct student support pilot programs on campus to assist students who are at risk for homelessness or who are currently experiencing homelessness.
Develop or enhance collaboration with local resources to provide increased support for students experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity, including building partnerships and expanding collaboration with local McKinney-Vento Liaisons to help with the transition between high school and college and/or working with the college’s local Continuum of Care and other local resources including emergency shelters, domestic and sexual violence centers, and food pantries to help support students’ needs.

Allocations

Grant Period: January 1, 2025-December 31, 2025

Application Package Due Date/Time: December 16, 2024, 11:59 p.m.

Program Lead: Deana Schenk, Senior Director for Student Success and Learning Renewal, deana.schenk@illnois.gov

Submit the complete application package to iccb.studentservices@illinois.gov.

Application Materials

FY 2025 Access and Equity in Dual Credit Project

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) invites community colleges to apply for the Access and Equity in Dual Credit Project Grant. All Illinois community colleges are eligible to apply for this Notice of Funding Opportunity. ICCB will fund a maximum of $2,600,000 to selected community colleges to incentivize the enhancement, expansion and support of dual credit in the state. The maximum award is $150,000.

The grant objectives are as follows:

Planning and implementation strategies with the explicit purpose of supporting student persistence to college completion, whether that be a two-year transfer degree, four-year baccalaureate degree, or CTE credential or degree. This strategy should be accomplished through an increase in transferrable core academic (e.g., General Education Core Curriculum coursework, such as math, English, or Communications) and/or CTE coursework on a career pathway, that students have available at their high school, or that are made available or enhanced as part of this project. This requires strong partnerships with high schools and building clear pathways from dual credit into the college after high school graduation, supporting wrap-around services and strengthening relationships across the district.2) Supporting and improving equitable access to dual credit, focused particularly on students who have been historically underrepresented, including students from racial/ethnic backgrounds that are underserved, low-income students, and students in rural settings.3) Providing support to faculty to complete or enhance academic credentials and requirements that would enable them to fully teach dual credit courses. The credentials to be obtained must directly be related to course offerings they would be teaching as dual credit offerings. This objective should be accomplished though development and approval of professional development plans aligned with the courses identified in the grant application. No more than 25% of the grant expenditures can be utilized for direct faculty support.

Grant Period: January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025.

Application Package Due Date/Time: Friday, January 31, 2025

Submit Application Package To: Patrick.F.Moore@illinois.gov

Application Materials:

- FY2025 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
- FAQ

Scaling and Assessing Developmental Education Reform Act Project

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) is inviting eligible applicants to participate in the Scaling and Assessing Developmental Education Reform Act Project by applying for grants, which are GATA-exempt (as noted on the title page), up to $50,000 per institution. ICCB will fund a minimum of 10 grants to selected community colleges as they evaluate reform efforts and continue to scale developmental education reform. DERA, as part of Illinois Public Act 101-0654, was signed into law in March 2021. This project is designed to assist and support colleges in assessing and scaling equitable, evidence-based developmental education reform efforts to fully meet the requirements of DERA.

The grant objectives are as follows:

Expansion of data capacity and knowledge to evaluate the impact of existing developmental education reform efforts and guide continued scaling of efforts.
Create regional training opportunities and partnerships.
Assess and scale reform to increase successful movement through developmental education and into and through gateway courses.

Allocations

Grant Period: January 1, 2025-December 31, 2025

Application Package Due Date/Time: December 2, 2024, 5:00 p.m.

Program Lead: Deana Schenk, Senior Director for Student Success and Learning Renewal, deana.schenk@illnois.gov

Submit the complete application package to iccb.studentservices@illinois.gov.

Application Materials

FY25 Mental Health Early Action on Campus Support Expansion Project

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) is inviting community colleges to apply for the Mental Health Early Action on Campus Support Expansion Project grant by applying for grants up to $150,000 per institution. ICCB will fund a minimum of 24 grants to selected community colleges to support existing MHEAC activities, expand existing supports, and implement new strategies to support mental health.

The grant objectives are as follows:

Develop and expand peer support programs.
Continue to develop the number of students served through local partnerships to meet the statutorily established 1:1250 counselor to student ratio.
Develop and expand mental health services targeting gaps in services, with an emphasis on underserved students.
Develop Medicaid and other reimbursement procedures for mental health services.

Allocations (posted January 03, 2025)

Grant Period: January 1, 2025-December 31, 2025

Optional Bidder’s Conference: October 1, 2024 – 2:00 p.m. (virtual, see link in NOFO)

Application Package Due Date/Time: October 31, 2024 – 5:00 p.m.

Program Lead: Mackenzie Montgomery, Director for Student Success, Mackenzie.montgomery@illinois.gov

Submit the complete application package to iccb.studentservices@illinois.gov.

Application Materials

Mental Health Early Action on Campus Support Expansion Project Notice of Funding Opportunity (please read carefully to understand all facets of submitting an application)
GATA-exempt Grant Application
Uniform Budget

Taking Back the Trades! Trades School Grant Program- Round 3 Grant Opportunity (posted 10/04/2024)

ICCB will provide $5,000,000 in grant funding opportunities to be administered to support Trade School Programs. The purpose of this grant is to provide access to careers in the “trades” for young adults, particularly those in underserved community marked by high youth unemployment, low graduation rates, or other relevant indicators. For the purposes of this grant, youth is defined as those aged 16-24 and the “trades” are defined as technical occupations in the following sectors:

1. Architecture and construction
2. Energy
3. Healthcare
4. Information Technology
5. Manufacturing
6. Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
7. Transportation, Distribution & Logistics

Allocations (posted January 09, 2024)

Grant Period: January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025

Application Deadline: November 15, 2024 @ 11:59 p.m.

Bidder’s Conference: October 21, 2024 @ 1:00 p.m., https://illinois.webex.com/illinois/j.php?MTID=m77eec91cf3e0589f1668d9b9430e263e

Questions? Email questions to Janelle Washington at janelle.washington@illinois.gov. All questions will be compiled and posted as an FAQ.

Application Materials:

FY2025 Taking Back the Trades Notice of Funding Opportunity (please read carefully to understand all facets of submitting an application)
FY2025 Taking Back the Trades GATA-Exempt Grant Application
FY2025 Uniform Budget
Bidder’s Conference Slides
Bidder’s Conference Video
FAQ

FY 2025 Rev Up EV Community College Initiative (Electric Vehicle Technology Grant) – round 3 (posted 9/20/2024)

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) is inviting eligible applicants to apply for the SFY2025 Rev Up EV Community College Initiative – Round 3. The purpose of this initiative is to promote the development and growth of training programs that prepare individuals for careers in EV technology and EV specific advanced manufacturing fields, with a priority focus on programs and training in areas that are most in demand by EV business and industry partners. The ICCB will provide approximately $7.361 million in competitive grant funds to be administered by way of two competitive grant opportunities for new Rev Up EV college applicants and for previously awarded Rev Up EV grant recipients.

Applicants not previously awarded through Rev Up EV: $4.0M distributed via two objectives, A and B.
- Objective A: Anticipating support for 6 to 8 awards: Capacity Building – maximum of $90,000.
- Objective B: Anticipating support for 8 to 10 awards: EV Technology Development and Expansion with an award range of $100,000-525,000.
Applicants previously awarded through Rev Up EV will have $3.361M. Anticipating support for 10-25 awards.
All applicants are required to select, ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ on the application regarding interest in working with competency-based education with Rev Up EV round 3.

Allocations (posted December 19, 2024)

Grant Period:

Objective A: Capacity- Building: January 1, 202 – December 31, 2025 (12M)
Objective B: EV Development and Expansion: January 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026 (18M)

Bidder’s Conference: September 24, 2024, 1-2 p.m. (virtual, see link in NOFO)

Applications Due: October 25, 2024, 11:59 p.m. to ICCB.cte@illinois.gov

Questions? Email: dana.wynn@illinois.gov. Questions and answers will be compiled in an FAQ and posted on this site.

Application Materials:

FY2025 Rev Up EV Community College Initiative – Round 2 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
GATA-Exempt Uniform Application
Project Overview Template (Excel)
Project Overview Template (PDF)
Application Narrative (template not provided, review the NOFO for requirements)
Uniform Budget (template provided)
Objective B Only: Letters of Commitment/Support (template not provided)
FY2025 Objective A Quarterly Report Template
FY2025 Objective B Quarterly Report Template

Resources:

FY2025

FY2024

FY2024 Rev Up EV Community College Initiative Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
GATA-Exempt Uniform Application
Project Overview Template
Application Narrative (template not provided, review the NOFO for requirements)
Uniform Budget (template provided)
Objective B Only: Letters of Commitment/Support (template not provided)
FY2024 Rev Up EV Community College Initiative Grant FAQ
Rev Up EV Bidder’s Conference Presentation
Rev Up EV Bidder’s Conference Webinar Recording
FY24 Rev Up EV Grant Allocations
FY24 Rev Up EV Quarterly Report Template – Objective B
FY24 Rev Up EV Quarterly Report Template – Objective A
FY24 Rev Up EV Budget Modification form

FY25 Noncredit Workforce Training Grant

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) invites community colleges to apply for the non-competitive Non-credit Workforce Training Initiative. The grant objectives are as follows:

Expand Noncredit Program Offerings: Colleges should aim to prioritize significantly in-demand and emerging occupations for programming built, expanded, or supported through this grant.

Offer Business Solutions to Employers: In addition to customized training, community colleges offer a suite of business solutions to employers. Examples of business solutions include quality and safety audits; training workshops relevant to leadership, essential employability skills, and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access; contract procurement assistance, etc. Colleges should prioritize small businesses (500 employees or less) as well as minority or woman- owned businesses for these business solutions. Colleges may expand the number of employers they offer business solutions to and/or provide additional services as a result of these grant funds.

Increase Affordability of Noncredit Training for Students, particularly those who are low-income, un- or underemployed, and or otherwise underrepresented in the sector in which training is be offered. Activities may include offsetting costs of training, creating noncredit apprenticeship programs, and increasing efficiencies to sustain affordability.

Note that this initiative excludes developmental education, youth programs, community enrichment, adult education and English language acquisition.

Allocations (posted December 19, 2024)

Grant Period: January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025

Application Package Due Date: October 15, 2024

Submit Package to: Alex Weidenhamer – Alex.weidenmamer@illinois.gov and ICCB.Noncredit@illinois.gov

Questions are to be submitted to: Alex Weidenhamer – Alex.weidenhamer@illinois.gov

Application Materials

FY 2025 Digital Instruction for Adult Education (posted 9/16/24)

The ICCB will provide approximately $1,750,000.00 in State Funds to support currently funded ICCB Title II programs with the Digital Instruction for Adult Education.

The grant is comprised of the following objectives:

Enhance the Title II Provider’s technology resources and infrastructure.
Increase access to instruction and support services.
Assist individuals who lack foundational skills or are English learners to enter postsecondary education or work-based training.
Develop academic and professional digital skills for eligible adult learners.

Grant Period: January 1st, 2025 – December 31st, 2025

Applications Due: December 1st, 2024, 05:00 p.m. and must be submitted to ICCB.ael.compliance@illinois.gov

Program Lead: Contact Rupa Sameer – Director for Adult Education and Literacy with questions rupa.sameer@illinois.gov

Submit the complete application, signature pages, and budget via Amplifund.

The following documents have been provided to support your application development. All remaining documents are in Amplifund.

FY2025 Digital Instruction for Adult Education Grant Notice of Funding Opportunity

Application Materials:

Expansion of ESL Services for Adult Education Providers working with Asylees, Refugees, and Migrants Grant

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) invites currently funded Title II programs to apply for the Expansion of ESL Services for Adult Education Providers working with Asylees, Refugees, and Migrants Grant. ICCB will fund a maximum of $750,000.00 to selected Adult Education Title II programs.

The grant objectives are as follows:

Support the increasing numbers of asylees, refugees, and migrants by helping them gain skills in English Language Acquisition.
Provide a system of wrap around supports for English Learners.
Prepare adults who are English Language Learners through ELL classes and activities that lead to self-sufficiency as parents, workers, and citizens.
Provide opportunities for English language learners to increase their basic skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing, and workforce preparation.
Support the recruiting of New Arrivals, while also working to retain students by offering wrap-around services.

Grant Period: Jan 1st, 2025- Dec 31st , 2025.

Application Package Due Date/Time: December 1st, 2024, 5:00 p.m.

Program Lead: Contact Rupa Sameer – Director for Adult Education and Literacy with questions rupa.sameer@illinois.gov

Submit the complete application, signature pages, and budget via Amplifund.

The following documents have been provided to support your application development. All remaining documents are in Amplifund

FY2025 Expansion of ESL Services for Adult Education Providers working with Asylees, Refugees, and Migrants Grant Notice of Funding Opportunity

Application Materials:

FY 2025 Innovative Bridge and Transitions Grant Program (posted: August 15, 2024)

The ICCB will provide approximately $9.3 million in grant funding opportunities to be administered to support innovative bridge and transition programs.

The purpose of this grant is to:

create, support, or expand innovative bridge programs and services;
support or create transition programs which improve student transitions to and through postsecondary education and into employment;
create programs that promote equity and diversity among those served; and/or
create programs and services that support individuals with disabilities.

Allocations (posted December 19, 2024)

Grant Period: January 1, 2025-March 31, 2026

Applications Due: October 8, 2024 by 5:00 pm in Amplifund

To access AmpliFund, see the attached NOFO. All grants must be submitted in AmpliFund. You cannot submit these directly to ICCB.

To log into AmpliFund, use the same information you use to log into the GATA portal.
If you experience difficulty accessing the application, please e-mail AmpliFund’s Customer Success team directly at support@il-amplifund.zendesk.com.
An applicant must be pre-qualified in GATA prior to any grant application being scored. If you have not met all of the pre-qualification requirements, your application will not be scored. Please go to the GATA portal to view the pre-qualification and other requirements. https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/GATA/Grants/SitePages/CSFA.aspx

Application Materials:

IBT Notice of Funding Opportunity
Uniform Application
Cover Page Template
Uniform Budget (The Uniform Budget may not open with all browsers. If you are unable to open the document, you can download the file, save it to your computer, and then open the document from your computer.)
Performance Measures Chart
Narrative Template
PowerPoint
Bidder’s Conference Meeting
Amplifund Explanation
FY25 IBT Grant FAQ

Operational Meeting Materials:

FY25 Workforce Equity Initiative Grant

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) is inviting community colleges to apply for the FY25 Workforce Equity Initiative grant.

The Workforce Equity Initiative provides individuals with the opportunity to attain a college credential in a high demand sector/industry to access jobs that pay 30% above the regional living wage or on an educational pathway leading to 30% above the regional living wage.. The purpose of this grant is to create, support, or expand short-term (one year or less) workforce (credit and/or noncredit) training opportunities in high-need communities focused on specific sectors with identified workforce gaps. Short-term credentials of one year or less can be a college certificate and/or an industry recognized credential.

The major goals of the project:

Accelerate the time for the targeted population to enter and succeed in postsecondary education/training programs that lead to employment in high skilled, high wage, and in-demand occupations that pay 30% above the regional living wage or on an educational pathway leading to 30% above the regional living wage.
Of the population to be served under this grant, a minimum of 60% must be African American.

Grant Period: July 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025.

Application Package Due Date/Time: June 18, 2024, 11:59 PM CT

Submit Application Package to: iccb.submitrfp@illinois.gov

Questions are to be submitted to: iccb.submitrfp@illinois.gov

Application Materials:

FY24 Workforce Equity Initiative NOFO (please read carefully to understand all facets of submitting an application)
GATA-Exempt Grant Application
Uniform Grant Budget Template
Proposed High Demand Training Programs and Measurable Goals Attachments
Bidder’s Conference Video
FAQ
FY25 Workforce Equity Initiative Awards

Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education Competitive Grant

This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is intended to solicit a Request for Proposal from eligible programs (CFR 463.23) that work to achieve the purpose of Section 243, Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education, of Title II of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014 which is to provide adult education and literacy services to:

English Language Learners who are adults, including professionals with degrees and credentials in their native countries, that enables such adults to achieve competency in the English language and acquire the basic and more advanced skills needed to function effectively as parents, workers, and citizens in the United States.
Prepare adults who are English Language Learners for, and place such adults in, unsubsidized employment in in-demand industries and occupations that lead to economic self-sufficiency.
Integrate with the local workforce development system and its functions to carry out the activities of the program.

The Components of an IELCE program include:

Literacy/English Language Acquisition
Civics Education
Workforce Preparation (Bridge)
Integrated Education and Training / Integrated Career & Academic Preparation System (ICAPS)

Note: This Notice of Funding will provide Federal IELCE funding for State Fiscal year 2025 through State Fiscal Year 2026 and provides funding to carry out the expectations of IELCE – WIOA Section 243. Required deliverables, allowable activities, performance measures, and requirements for submitting a Request for Proposal are described throughout this NOFO. All funding is based on Federal appropriations.

Years 2, 3, and 4 of IELCE funding are contingent on successfully meeting all required programmatic requirements. Programs will be provided with a Year End Report Card and will meet with designated ICCB staff to identify targeted areas for improvement. The criteria will be published in the IELCE Provider’s Guide.

Grant period: The grant period is from Initial: July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025; Renewal Years: July 1 – June 30, 2026, 2027, 2028.

Application Due Date: Programs will be required to submit their applications via Amplifund by 5:00 p.m. on May 29, 2024.

Program Lead: Contact Britt Garton Pisto, Director for Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education with questions: britt.pisto@illinois.gov

Submit the complete application, signature pages, and budget via Amplifund.

The following documents have been provided to support your application development. All remaining documents are in Amplifund.

FY25-FY28 Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education Competitive Grant Notice of Funding Opportunity:

FY25-FY28 Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education Competitive Grant Notice of Funding Opportunity

Resources

Data Center Curriculum Project Initiative

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) is inviting community colleges to apply for the Data Center Curriculum Development Project Grant.

The purpose of this grant initiative is to support the development of data center operator programming by community colleges in order to respond to the growing workforce demand in the data center market in the Chicagoland area. The ICCB will provide $250,000-$350,000 in funding to each eligible awardee for the purposes of this grant.

This NOFO aims build on this impact by supporting the development of key programs that support Data Center employers. The grant objectives are to be met through the following required activities:

Curriculum Development: Create or modify existing curriculum, based on guidance from the Data Center Curriculum Project Advisory Committee, as well as local employers. Model curriculum will be based on NOVA’s Data Center Operator program.
Procure Equipment: Purchase necessary equipment and secure adequate training space or facilities to carry out programming.
Advisory Committee: Actively participate on the Illinois Community College Board’s Data Center Curriculum Project Advisory Committee, which meets twice annually. The next Advisory Committee meeting is subject to meet in-person in November 2024.

Grant Period: May 15, 2024 – June 30, 2025.

Application Package Due Date/Time: April 26, 2024, 11:59 p.m.

Submit Application Package to: chris.blankenhorn@illinois.gov

Questions are to be submitted to: whitney.thompson@illinois.gov

Application Materials:

Data Center Curriculum Project Initiative NOFO / Application (please read carefully to understand all facets of submitting an application)
GATA-Exempt Grant Application
Uniform Grant Budget Template

Resources:

Adult Education and Literacy Competitive Grant

This Request for Proposal is intended to solicit applications from eligible providers of adult education that work to achieve the purpose of Title II of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014, which is to create a partnership among the federal government, states, and localities to provide, on a voluntary basis, adult education and literacy services, in order to:

assist adults in becoming literate and obtain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment and self-sufficiency;
assist adults who are parents or family members in obtaining education and skills that
1. are necessary to become full partners in the educational development of their children; and
2. lead to sustainable improvements in the economic opportunities for their family;
assist adults in attaining a secondary school diploma and in transitioning to postsecondary education and training, including through career pathways; and
assist immigrants and other individuals who are English language learners in
1. improving their:
  1. reading, writing, speaking and comprehension skills in English;
  2. mathematics skills; and
2. acquiring an understanding of the American system of Government, individual freedom, and the responsibilities of citizenship.

Note: This Notice of Funding will provide AEFLA funding for State Fiscal Year 2025 and State Fiscal Year 2026 to carry out the following programs under WIOA Title II: (1) Adult Education and Literacy Activities (Section 231) and (2) Adult Education in Correctional Institutions (Section 225). Required deliverables, allowable activities, performance measures, and requirements for submitting a Request for Proposal for one or both of the aforementioned programs are described throughout this NOFO. All funding is based on State and Federal appropriations.

Applicants may apply for either

AELA Section 231 Funding, or
Correction Education Section 225 Funding, or
Both a and b

Grant period: The grant period is from July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2026.

Application Due Date: Programs will be required to submit their applications via Amplifund by apply by 5:00 p.m. on May 3, 2024.

Program Lead: Contact Dr. Kathy Olesen-Tracey, Senior Director for Adult Education and Literacy with questions. Kathy.olesen-tracey@illinois.gov

Submit the complete application, signature pages, and budget via Amplifund.

The following documents have been provided to support your application development. All remaining documents are in Amplifund

FY2025 Adult Education and Literacy Competitive Grant Notice of Funding Opportunity

Resources

Area Planning Council and LWIA Map
FY25 ICCB AEFLA Supporting Information
EARN Multilingual Spotlight
Amplifund Applicant Portal Guide
ICCB FY21 to FY23 Adult Education Credential Attainment
ICCB FY21 to FY23 Adult Education Skill Gain
ICCB FY21 to FY23 Adult Education Q2 Employment and Median earnings
ICCB FY21 to FY23 Adult Education Q4 Employment
Amplifund instructional video: :https://youtu.be/IdRaN3hyuZc
Bidder’s Conference Presentation
Bidder’s Conference Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HgWqbaTqVSo
FAQ **Updated 04/30/24

Adult Education and Literacy Professional Development Network and Technical Assistance (posted 02/23/2024)

ICCB will provide $395,000 in grant funding opportunities to be administered to support the Professional Development Network and the Adult Education Hotline. Per regulations in the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA), a notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) will be posted for 45 days on the ICCB website, as well as the GATA Grantee Portal, and disseminated to all eligible recipients.

The grant objectives are as follows:

To enhance the quality of English Language Acquisition instruction and support across Illinois through Professional development, technical integration for WIOA Title II providers.
To provide technical assistance for assessments approved by the National Reporting System.
Deliver evidence-based reading instruction, maintain and promote the Adult Education Hotline for ICCB-funded Adult Education Programs.

Grant Period: July 1, 2025- June 30, 2026.

Application Package Due Date/Time: April 8, 2024, 5:00 p.m.

Submit Application Package to: ICCB.ael.compliance@illinois.gov

Questions are to be submitted to: Kathy.Olesen-Tracey@illinois.gov

Application Materials:

FY2025 Adult Education and Literacy Professional Development Network and Technical Assistance (please read carefully to understand all facets of submitting an application)
FY2025 Adult Education and Literacy Professional Development Network and Technical Assistance Grant Application
FY2025 Budget

Taking Back the Trades! Trades School Grant Program- Round 2 (posted 02/09/2024)

Architecture and construction
Energy
Healthcare
Information Technology
Manufacturing
Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Transportation, Distribution & Logistics

Grant Period: June 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025

Application Deadline: April 15, 2024 @ 11:59 p.m.

FY2024 Awardees

Bidder’s Conference: March 07, 2024 @ 1:00 p.m., https://illinois.webex.com/illinois/j.php?MTID=maf40e8617b74e66939e154c09d82382e

Questions? Email questions to Tasha Allan at natasha.allan@illinois.gov. All questions will be compiled and posted as an FAQ.

Application Materials:

FY2024 Taking Back the Trades Notice of Funding Opportunity (please read carefully to understand all facets of submitting an application)
FY2024 Taking Back the Trades GATA-Exempt Grant Application
FY2024 Uniform Budget
FAQ

FY24 Noncredit Workforce Training Grant

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) invites community colleges to apply for the non-competitive Non-credit Workforce Training Initiative. The grant objectives are as follows:

Expand Noncredit Program Offerings: Colleges should aim to prioritize significantly in-demand and emerging occupations for programming built, expanded, or supported through this grant.
Offer Business Solutions to Employers: In addition to customized training, community colleges offer a suite of business solutions to employers. Examples of business solutions include quality and safety audits; training workshops relevant to leadership, essential employability skills, and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access; contract procurement assistance, etc. Colleges should prioritize small businesses (500 employees or less) as well as minority or woman- owned businesses for these business solutions. Colleges may expand the number of employers they offer business solutions to and/or provide additional services as a result of these grant funds.
Increase Affordability of Noncredit Training for Students, particularly those who are low-income, un- or underemployed, and or otherwise underrepresented in the sector in which training is be offered. Activities may include offsetting costs of training, creating noncredit apprenticeship programs, and increasing efficiencies to sustain affordability.

Note that this initiative excludes developmental education, youth programs, community enrichment, adult education and English language acquisition.

Grant Period: April 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025

Application Package Due Date: March 8, 2024

Submit Package to: Alex Weidenhamer – Alex.weidenmamer@illinois.gov

Questions are to be submitted to: Alex Weidenhamer – Alex.weidenhamer@illinois.gov

Application Materials

FY 2024 Access and Equity in Dual Credit Project (posted 11/17/23)

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) invites community colleges to apply for the Access and Equity in Dual Credit Project Grant. All Illinois community colleges are eligible to apply for this Notice of Funding Opportunity. ICCB will fund a maximum of $3,000,000 to selected community colleges to incentivize the enhancement, expansion and support of dual credit in the state. The maximum award is $150,000.

The grant objectives are as follows:

Planning and implementation strategies with the explicit purpose of supporting student persistence to college completion, whether that be a two-year transfer degree, four-year baccalaureate degree, or CTE credential or degree. This strategy should be accomplished through an increase in transferrable core academic (e.g., General Education Core Curriculum coursework, such as math, English, or Communications) and/or CTE coursework on a career pathway, that students have available at their high school, or that are made available or enhanced as part of this project. This requires strong partnerships with high schools and building clear pathways from dual credit into the college after high school graduation, supporting wrap-around services and strengthening relationships across the district.
Supporting or improving equitable access to dual credit, focused particularly on students who have been historically underrepresented, including students from racial/ethnic backgrounds that are underserved, low-income students, and students in rural settings.

Grant Period: March 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025.

Application Package Due Date/Time: Friday, January 26, 2024

Submit Application Package To: Patrick.F.Moore@illinois.gov

Application Materials:

FY 2024 Digital Instruction for Adult Education (posted 10/20/23)

The ICCB will provide approximately $1,850,000.00 in State Funds to support currently funded ICCB Title II programs with the Digital Instruction for Adult Education.

The grant is comprised of the following objectives:

Enhance the technology resources and infrastructure.
Access to instruction and support services.
Assist individuals who lack basic skills to enter postsecondary education or work- based training.
Developing academic and professional abilities for eligible adult learners.

Grant Period: January 1st, 2024 – December 31st, 2024

Applications Due: December 1st, 2023, 11:59 p.m. and must be submitted to ICCB.ael.compliance@illinois.gov

Questions? Email: rupa.sameer@illinois.gov

Application Materials:

FY 2024 Rev Up EV Community College Initiative (Electric Vehicle Technology Grant) (posted 10/20/2023)

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) is inviting eligible applicants to apply for the SFY2024 Rev Up EV Community College Initiative. The purpose of this initiative is to promote the development and growth of training programs that prepare individuals for careers in EV technology and EV specific advanced manufacturing fields, with a priority focus on programs and training in areas that are most in demand by EV business and industry partners. The ICCB will provide approximately $9.4 million in competitive grant funds to be administered by way of two objectives.

$700,000 for Building Capacity for EV. Maximum of $90,000 per college.
$8.7 million for EV Technology Development and Expansion. Grant award range: $100,000-$525,000.

Grant Period:

Objective A: Capacity- Building: January 15, 2024 – December 31, 2024 (12M)
Objective B: EV Development and Expansion: January 15, 2024 – June 30, 2024 (18M)

Bidder’s Conference: November 2, 2023 1-2 p.m. (virtual, see link in NOFO)
Applications Due: December 1, 2023, 11:59 p.m. to ICCB.cte@illinois.gov
Questions? Email: whitney.thompson@illinois.gov. Questions and answers will be compiled in an FAQ and posted on this site.

Application Materials:

FY2024 Rev Up EV Community College Initiative Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
FY2024 Rev Up EV Community College Initiative
GATA-Exempt Uniform Application
Project Overview Template
Application Narrative (template not provided, review the NOFO for requirements)
Uniform Budget (template provided)
Objective B Only: Letters of Commitment/Support (template not provided)
FY2024 Rev Up EV Community College Initiative Grant FAQ
Rev Up EV Bidder’s Conference Presentation
Rev Up EV Bidder’s Conference Webinar Recording
FY24 Rev Up EV Grant Allocations

FY 2024 Perkins Leadership Grant (posted: October 20, 2023)

The ICCB will provide approximately $600,000 in federal Perkins Title I Leadership dollars to be administered to support CTE programs of study. The grant is comprised of the following three objectives, of which applicants can choose one:

Incentivizing the Alignment of the College and Career Pathway Endorsements (CCPE) framework and Postsecondary Programs of Study
Enhancing Student-Centered Support Services
Modernization and Innovation

Grant Period: January 15, 2024 – December 31, 2024

Applications Due: December 01, 2023, 11:59 p.m. to ICCB.cte@illinois.gov

Questions? Email: natasha.allan@illinois.gov. Questions and answers will be compiled in an FAQ and posted on this site.

Application Materials:

FY2024 Perkins Leadership Grant Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
Uniform Grant Application (template provided)
Application Narrative (template not provided, review the NOFO for requirements)
Uniform Budget (template provided)
FAQ

Pipeline for the Advancement of the Healthcare Workforce Program (PATH)

PURPOSE:

To create, support, and expand the opportunities of individuals in the nursing pathway and select healthcare pathways to obtain credentials and degrees that allow them to enter and/or advance their careers in the healthcare industry. Additionally, this grant aims to address the shortage of workers in the healthcare industry that have been exasperated by the COVID 19 pandemic. Twenty-five (25) million dollars for a grant period of July 1, 2022-June 30, 2023.

Allocations for Districts

For more information and instructions on completing an Implementation Plan, review the Program Design.

Program Design

Templates for Submission by July 29, 2022 to whitney.thompson@illinois.gov

Implementation Plan Template

Uniform Budget Template

Uniform Grant Application Template

Please direct questions about this funding opportunity to Whitney Thompson, Deputy Director for Workforce Education, whitney.thompson@illinois.gov.

FY 2023 PATH FAQ (updated 7.22.22)

FY2023 PATH Grant Kick-off Zoom Meeting (VIDEO)

FY 2023 PATH Quarterly Report Template

Integrated English Language and Civics Education Renewal

This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is intended to solicit a Renewal Proposal from currently ICCB IELCE funded AEFLA programs (CFR 463.23) that work to achieve the purpose of Section 243 from Title II of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014 which is to provide adult education and literacy services in order to

Prepare adults who are English Language Learners for, and place such adults in, unsubsidized employment in in-demand industries and occupations that lead to economic self-sufficiency.
Integrate with the local workforce development system and its functions to carry out the activities of the program.

IELCE program components provided in combination with Integrated Education and Training program must include Literacy and English Language Acquisition, Civics Education, and Workforce Preparation activities.

Grant period: The renewal period is from July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024.

Application Due Date: Please apply by 5:00 p.m. on May 1, 2023.

Program Lead: Contact Britt Garton Pisto, Director for Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education, with questions. Britt.Pisto@illinois.gov

Submit the complete application, signature pages, and budget to iccb.submit.aelrfp@illinois.gov

Adult Education and Literacy Renewal

This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is intended to solicit a Renewal Proposal from currently ICCB-funded AEFLA programs (CFR 463.23) that work to achieve the purpose of Title II of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014 which is to provide adult education and literacy services in order to

assist adults in becoming literate and obtaining the knowledge and skills necessary for employment and self-sufficiency
assist adults who are parents or family members in obtaining education and skills that (a.) are necessary to become full partners in the educational development of their children (b.) lead to sustainable improvements in the economic opportunities for their family;
assist adults in attaining a secondary school diploma and in transitioning to postsecondary education and training including through career pathways;
assist immigrants and other individuals who are English language learners (A)improving their
1. reading, writing, speaking and comprehension skills in English
2. mathematics skills;

(B) acquiring an understanding of the American system of Government, individual freedom, and the responsibilities of citizenship.

Grant period: The renewal period is from July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024.

Application Due Date: Please apply by 5:00 p.m. on May 1, 2023.

Program Lead: Contact Dr. Kathy Olesen-Tracey, Senior Director for Adult Education and Literacy with questions. Kathy.olesen-tracey@illinois.gov

Submit the complete application, signature pages, and budget to iccb.submit.aelrfp@illinois.gov

FY24 AEFLA Renewal NOFO
FY24 AEFLA Budget Descriptions
FY24 AEFLA Budget
FY24 AEFLA Work Plan
FY24 AEL Signature Page
FY24 AEFLA Consortium Signature Page
Program Considerations

College Bridge Program (posted: March 30, 2022)

The purpose of this funding opportunity is to provide minority, first-generation, and low-income students with the skills and resources to succeed as they transition into the community college from their high school, or for adults beginning or returning to college, as they transition into college. Bridge programs can help reduce the academic burdens students face by introducing them to credit-bearing coursework, either as seniors in dual credit, or as incoming freshmen at institutions of higher education, without the need for remediation, thereby increasing their chances of success.

Grant period: The grant period is from April 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023. Pre-award costs from July 1, 2021 are allowable but must be in line with the approved scope of activities.

Application Due Date: Earliest convenience; applications will be processed in the order received as this is a non-competitive funding opportunity. Please apply by 5:00 p.m. on June 1, 2022.

Award Amount per Grantee: Maximum amount is $220,000 for the thirty-eight districts and each of the 7 city colleges.

Program Lead: Allison Decker, Senior Director for Academic Affairs and Student Success, Illinois Community College Board, 401 E. Capitol Avenue, Springfield, IL 62701, (217) 558-4163, allison.decker@illinois.gov

Submit a complete application, budget proposal, and questions to allison.decker@illinois.gov.

Application Materials:

Uniform Grant Application – College Bridge

GATA Budget – College Bridge

College Bridge Program Grant Guidelines

ARPA College Bridge Program narrative template

Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity Opportunity

This grant will support colleges in providing streamlined paths to degrees, licenses, and credentials to members of the early childhood incumbent workforce in the field of early childhood (EC) education. These funds are provided as part of a larger statewide initiative to establish the Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity as mandated in PA 102-0174. The grantee, in receiving these funds, acknowledges that they are intended to help the institution operate as a member of the Consortium (as outlined in PA 102-0174, Section 20, Parts 1-10) and agrees to use the funds for the purposes described therein and to reach the goals.

This grant is intended to provide services to support faculty, students, and institutions to develop successful models that assist with moving students in and through developmental education and enrollment in gateway/credit-bearing coursework. Applicants should be specific in noting which population they are addressing with each activity.

Grant period: August 1, 2022 – June 30, 2024. Pre-award costs back to August 2021 are allowable costs to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the award.

Application Due Date: Earliest convenience; applications will be processed in the order received as this is a non-competitive funding opportunity.

Maximum Amount per Grantee: See allocation table

Program Lead: Mackenzie Montgomery, Director for Student Services, (217) 557-7119, Mackenzie.Montgomery@illinois.gov

Questions? Email mackenzie.montgomery@illinois.gov.

Application Materials:

ECE FY22 – FY24 Total Program Funding for Illinois Community Colleges (updated 5/3/22)

ECE Debt Relief Allocations

FY 2023 Early Childhood Education Implementation Plan

Uniform Grant Application – ECACE

GATA Budget ECACE

FY22 Competency-Based Education Program Development (posted: November 12, 2021)

This grant is designed to support competency-based education development in the community college system for the following high-demand sectors; Manufacturing, Allied Health, and Finance Business Services. Using an equity-guided, community of practice approach, the goal of this grant is to a) build capacity in planning and program development, b) build institutional support, engagement, and knowledge, and c) ultimately, guide and support the institution in transitioning to implementation of a competency-based education program.

Grant period: March 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023

Application Due Date: January 21, 2022

Maximum Amount per Grantee: $200,000

Program Lead: Whitney Thompson, Deputy Director for Workforce Education

Questions? Email ICCB.cte@illinois.gov

Application Materials:

Grant NOFO

Uniform Application Template

Uniform Budget Template

Cover Page Template

CBE Action Plan Template

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