Ciere Boatright commissioner of the Chicago Department of Planning and Development (DPD) | LinkedIn
Ciere Boatright commissioner of the Chicago Department of Planning and Development (DPD) | LinkedIn
Chicago's Workforce Solutions program is set to expand citywide, following the approval of a proposal by Mayor Johnson. The City Council's decision will bring $12.2 million in new funding to address job training needs for businesses throughout Chicago in 2025.
The Department of Planning and Development manages the Workforce Solutions program, which aims to enhance workforce productivity and efficiency. This is achieved through support for employer-led training initiatives that involve both new hires and current employees.
As part of the approved amendments, $11.2 million in Tax Increment Financing (TIF) assistance will be allocated to employers within 35 TIF districts. Additionally, $1 million from Housing and Economic Development bond proceeds will be available for employers citywide. The program offers reimbursements covering up to 75% of an employer's training costs.
Applications for the Workforce Solutions program are expected to open in the second quarter of 2025.
Previously known as TIFWorks, this initiative has distributed over $35 million in grants to more than 600 businesses since its inception in 2003. Until now, participation was restricted to employers located within certain TIF districts.
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