Workforce Development and Education Fund

A robust and qualified workforce is central to healthy communities, employers, families, and individuals

The Community Foundation of Will County (CFWC) is now accepting applications for the Workforce Development and Education Grant—application deadline February 4, 2022.

Who is Eligible?

Organizations described in Section 170(b)(1)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, which are organized and operated for one or more purposes described in Section 170 (c)(2)(B) of the code, within and without Will County, Illinois as may be determined in the sole discretion of the Foundation’s Board of Directors.

Eligible Programs

The Workforce Development and Education Fund will invest in projects and programs related to workforce readiness, training gaps, and staff retention that benefit Will County residents and businesses.

The Foundation values innovation and we hope to leave space for diverse and creative ideas while being able to measure results to demonstrate impact. We have not recommended a prescribed approach to what implementation should look like, and leave that to the discretion of applicants.

Areas of Focus:

• Recruitment and Retention
• Access to Stackable Degrees/Credentials
• Upskilling Job Seekers
• Apprenticeships, Internships, Clinicals

Funding Considerations:

• Supporting Underserved Populations
• Collaborations/Partnerships
• Multi-Year Projects
• Self-Sustaining Programs