Future Energy Jobs Act Multi-Cultural Jobs Program

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has announced the Future Energy Jobs Act Multi-Cultural Jobs Program under the funding opportunity number FY25-1. The program, authorized under 220 ILCS 5/16-108.12(a)(3), is aimed at supporting skill development, training, and supportive services for traditionally underserved populations seeking employment in the clean energy sector. This initiative aligns with the goals of the Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA) and the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), which focus on promoting job growth within the clean energy economy through investment in workforce development, energy efficiency, and renewable energy sectors. The funding program aims to provide innovative, employer-driven training approaches that combine education, occupational training, and supportive services. A total of $4 million is available for this funding opportunity, with awards ranging from $500,000 to $1,000,000. Six awards will be distributed, one for each specific funding category, targeting community-based civil rights organizations, educational institutions, youth leadership development organizations, not-for-profits providing construction industry training, non-profits with experience in utility training programs, and non-profits offering family services and electric industry training. Eligible applicants must be diversity-focused community organizations with a record of successfully delivering job training services in Illinois. The program’s objectives include assisting individuals in obtaining skills necessary for employment in the clean energy sector, prioritizing equity investment eligible persons such as those from low-income households, English language learners, displaced energy workers, and individuals residing in environmental justice communities. The program will also support the Illinois Workforce Development Priorities, emphasizing regional workforce strategies, career-focused training, and equitable access to workforce services. Eligible applicants must demonstrate capacity for recruiting, training, and supporting participants, as well as establishing partnerships with regional employers and workforce entities. Applications will be assessed based on criteria such as the applicant's capacity to implement training programs, the quality of the proposed training curriculum, the extent of supportive services offered, and the strength of transition services to employment. Funding priorities include programs that provide bridge programs, job-specific training, entrepreneurial training, and work-based learning opportunities. Programs must align with the Clean Jobs Curriculum Framework, which includes training in solar photovoltaic, energy auditing, HVAC, and wind turbine maintenance. The grant application process is open from May 1, 2025, through July 1, 2025, with a final submission deadline of 5:00 PM CST on July 1, 2025. A technical assistance session was offered on May 15, 2025, to review application requirements and provide guidance to applicants. Applicants are required to submit a uniform grant application, a detailed project work plan, staffing plan, curriculum plan, and proposed outcomes. Applicants must also be registered in the GATA Grantee Portal and must maintain an active SAM.gov registration with a valid UEI number. The anticipated start date for awarded projects is September 1, 2025, with a two-year period of performance ending August 31, 2027. There is a potential for a 12-month no-cost extension. Administrative costs, both direct and indirect, are allowed, though they are expected to constitute a small percentage of the total budget. Matching funds are not required but may strengthen an application’s competitiveness during the merit review process.

Applications should clearly align with the Clean Jobs Curriculum Framework and demonstrate strong community partnerships and capacity for program implementation.