The Workforce Solutions program is a reimbursable training grant initiative provided by the City of Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development and administered by Employment and Employer Services (E&ES). The grant is designed to support Chicago employers seeking to enhance the skills of their existing workforce and/or onboard new employees through targeted training initiatives.

Thanks to a combination of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and proceeds from the 2025 Housing and Economic Bond, this program is available to businesses citywide. However, due to funding limitations, there may be waitlists in some areas.

• A company, organization or nonprofit located in, expanding into or relocating to the City of Chicago.
• An active non-profit organization, such as an industrial council, community development corporation, business/trade association or labor organization.
• A company, organization or nonprofit planning to remain operational in their community area for a term no less than three years.
• A financially sound business/organization not solely dependent on Workforce Solutions grants to stay in business.

The Workforce Solutions program can fund training for upskilling current employees, new hire on-the-job training (Chicago residents only) or a combination of both.

Training skills obtained through the proposed training program must directly relate to job or business performance and occupations.

Eligible costs include:

• Current employee upskilling (incumbent worker training)
• On-the-Job (OJT)/New Hire Training
• Training supplies and materials (items associated with direct training costs only)
• Customized training curriculum (note: curriculum becomes City of Chicago property)

Applicants must demonstrate that the grant funding being requested is job or skill specific and will have an impact on the applicant’s workforce needs.

The following costs are eligible for reimbursement through the Workforce Solutions Grant Program:

• Market expansion training for applicants that are obtaining new or additional product lines and machinery. 
• Staff development to improve specific aspects of job performance.
• Company- or job-specific skills-based training directly related to specific job duty/occupation, business assessments and/or business coaching and mentoring.
• Industry-required trainings related to remaining competitive in the applicant’s respective industry, workplace safety and/or regulatory compliance.

Grants cover up to 100% of total eligible project costs up to a standard maximum award of $250,000.

Depending on business revenue and size, a contribution from the grantee may be required to demonstrate a commitment to the training and to reflect a direct investment in its success.