$18 million in new funding has been allocated for the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program.

The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, which began in 2021, aims to prepare participants for registered apprenticeship programs. This round of funding will prioritize grants in regions lacking pre-apprenticeship programs and target underserved groups, including people of color, veterans, and women. 

Approximately 35 new programs are expected to be funded, benefiting over 1,400 residents statewide.

More information can be found at https://dceo.illinois.gov/illinoisworks/preapprenticeship.html