The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced this month that $24 million in grant funding is available to establish six new Manufacturing Training Academies at community colleges in downstate Illinois.

The capital grants are aimed at strengthening the manufacturing workforce and supporting economic growth in downstate communities.

The funding will be awarded through a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity process and is intended to expand training opportunities for high-demand manufacturing jobs. Grants will support facility upgrades, equipment purchases, and the development of advanced workforce training spaces focused on modern manufacturing needs.

Eligible applicants include community colleges located outside Cook County and the collar counties that have not previously received Manufacturing Training Academy funding. Qualified institutions may apply for grants ranging from $3 million to $6 million.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis through April 30, 2026, or until funds run out.