BURBANK — Illinois has provided funding for two new workforce development grants intended for historically underrepresented communities, and State Senator Mike Porfirio is encouraging individuals and community-based organizations to apply.

 “Workforce development grants provide essential funding and support to improve the skills and employability of our local labor pool,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “I encourage organizations and individuals across the state to take advantage of these resources while they are available.”

The first grant is $10 million in new funding for the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, which focuses on areas without current programs. The Illinois Works program is designed to increase the number of qualified women, people of color and veteran construction and building trade apprentices.

The second available grant is $37.9 million in funding for the Illinois Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program, which will provide pathways for careers in the renewable energy, electrification and energy efficiency industries. The program represents the largest training component of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, providing grants to 13 hubs across the state offering training, job placement services, barrier reduction support and more.

“We have a job market that is constantly growing and changing,” said Porfirio. “These grants can provide funding for training programs, education and skill development initiatives that empower individuals to obtain the expertise needed for certain jobs and enhance overall community wellbeing.”

For more information about these grants, to apply or to see other grant opportunities in Illinois, visit DCEO’s website.