Illinois Economic Empowerment Centers (EEC) Program

Application Period: General announcement open for a period of time with no specific due dates for applications.

Technical Assistance: Offered : Yes; Mandatory : No; Date : 05/20/2026 : 11:00 AM; Registration link : https://illinois.webex.com/weblink/register/r4531ca7f3c0ff0fe80680e9d6ecc81d6

Apply here: https://dceo.illinois.gov/aboutdceo/grantopportunities/3226-4281.html

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Application Documents

FileView.aspx

State of Illinois Uniform Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
Summary Information
Awarding Agency Name Commerce And Econ Opp
Agency Contact Jael Olivares (CEO.EECProgram@illinois.gov)
Announcement Type Initial
Type of Assistance Instrument Grant
Funding Opportunity Number FY26-1
Funding Opportunity Title Illinois Economic Empowerment Centers (EEC) Program
CSFA Number 420-45-3226
CSFA Popular Name Economic Empowerment Centers (EEC)
Anticipated Number of Awards 10
Estimated Total Program Funding $2,500,000
Award Range $250000 - $500000
Source of Funding State
Cost Sharing or Matching Yes
Requirements
Indirect Costs Allowed No
Restrictions on Indirect Costs No
Posted Date 05/11/2026
Application Date Range General announcement open for a period of time with no specific due
dates for applications.
Grant Application Link Please select the entire address below and paste it into the browser...
https://dceo.illinois.gov/aboutdceo/grantopportunities/3226-4281.html
Technical Assistance Session Offered : Yes
Mandatory : No
Date : 05/20/2026 : 11:00 AM
Registration link :
https://illinois.webex.com/weblink/register/r4531ca7f3c0ff0fe80680e9d
6ecc81d6

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Agency-specific Content for the Notice of Funding Opportunity
Office of Economic Equity and Empowerment
Illinois Economic Empowerment Centers (EEC) Program
NOFO ID: 3226-4281
For information about grants please visit:
https://dceo.illinois.gov/dceo-grants.html
A. Program Description
Notice of Funding Opportunity Intent
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (the “Department” or “DCEO”) is issuing
this Notice of Funding Opportunity (“NOFO”) to establish and/or support Illinois Economic Empowerment
Centers (EECs) throughout the State of Illinois. The Illinois Economic Empowerment Centers Program
(EEC Program) provides training in the principles and practice of entrepreneurship to prepare individuals,
including minorities, women, veterans, individuals with a disability, dislocated workers, and youth
entrepreneurs to pursue self-employment and/or a business enterprise opportunity. The EECs provide
training in all aspects of business development and small business management.
Program Description
Pursuant to 20 ILCS 605/605-5031, the purpose of the EEC Program is to provide grants to eligible career
education agencies and not-for-profit corporations, including, but not limited to, local development
corporations, chambers of commerce, community-based business outreach centers and other community
based organizations that offer technical assistance, training, and access to resources necessary to start-
ups or existing businesses including, but not limited to, Socially and Economically Disadvantaged
Individual (SEDI) business owners and/or Very Small Businesses (VSBs)2 , entrepreneurs, and/or
dislocated workers. By allocating funds to EECs, the Office of Economic Equity and Empowerment (OE3)
aims to create an inclusive and welcoming business ecosystem for communities that have traditionally
faced systemic barriers to entry and growth, including, without limitations, communities that have
historically been marginalized, discriminated against, underrepresented and those who have been justice-
involved. Program funding will allow EECs in economically distressed areas and Community
Development Financial Institution (CDFI)3 investment areas to substantially impact these communities by
expanding on existing partnerships, providing targeted outreach and support, and developing culturally
competent training programs and initiatives to support the Targeted Program Participants (defined below).
Through the Department’s business outreach team’s experience, it is evident that many businesses
comprised from the Targeted Program Participants often require tailored support that resonates at a local,
community, and cultural level. The EEC Program was developed in direct response to this need and will
focus on establishing and supporting current centers to assist the Targeted Program Participants directly.
EEC Targeted Program Participants
Selected applicants must have the capacity to provide services in accordance with the EEC Program
objectives to SEDI-owned businesses, VSBs, or entrepreneurs from one or more members of the
following groups: minority groups members, women, veterans, individuals with a disability, dislocated
workers, and youth entrepreneurs (collectively referred to as the “Targeted Program Participants”).
1 Public Act 102-0821; https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/publicacts/fulltext.asp?Name=102-0821&GA=102
2 Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individuals (SEDI business) and Very Small Businesses (VSBs) as defined
by the U.S. Treasury Department; https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/SSBCI-Capital-Program-Policy-
Guidelines.pdf
3 More information about the CDFI can be found at the SEDI link provided in Footnote 2

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NOFO ID: 3226-4281
EEC Program Outline
A two-pronged approach is necessary to provide the Targeted Program Participants with access to
resources and training.
• EEC Business Advice/Technical Assistance. The EEC, utilizing its current business support
ecosystem, will be required to develop a referral system for existing and potential small business
owners. The referral system must include business advisory services and provide referrals to
financial resources, existing educational programs, and business incubator facilities. Targeted
Program Participants served must be reflective of the demographic in the geographical area served
by the center.
• EEC Education and Cohort Training. Each EEC will be required to administer an agency-approved
cohort training plan utilizing an evidence-based curriculum for start-ups, existing businesses, and/or
dislocated workers. The training plan must integrate the understanding of various cultural beliefs and
values with the specific target populations to ensure compliance with standardized diversity, equity,
and inclusion principles and guidelines, while also incorporating language access. Services must be
targeted and delivered to:
1. Start-ups – This type of training should offer startups and early-stage entrepreneurs assistance
on how to launch their businesses, products, or services. Services may include early-stage
development, business advisory, peer support, subject matter expertise, workforce development
and focusing on early-stage businesses.
2. Existing Business – This type of training should be designed for existing businesses that have
moved beyond the earliest stages of getting established and need advanced guidance and peer
support to scale up the business. Services may include advisory guidance around growth and
expansion, vendors and peer support, workforce development and preparation of businesses for
a pitch competition regionally and state-wide.
Dislocated Workers – This type of training should be designed for individuals who have lost their
jobs due to economic downturns or company closures and may face challenges when it comes to
finding new employment. These offerings should provide support and training to help dislocated
workers develop new skills and connect with resources to help them grow and successfully
secure employment.
The training cohort must also include plans for providing ongoing technical assistance to the
Program Participants who successfully complete the program (graduates), including linkages
with providers of other entrepreneurial assistance programs and with providers of small
business technical assistance and services (20 ILCS 605/605-503(e)). The EEC must also include
proof of partnership and/or backing from local post-secondary education institutions,
businesses, and government entities indicating their support of the proposed programs &
services and the ability to provide them.
EEC Mandatory Client Services
Each EEC shall also provide needed services to eligible Program Participants including, but not limited to:
1. Orientation and screening of prospective entrepreneurs: This serves as an initial step to
identifying and assessing the readiness and eligibility of prospective entrepreneurs for the EEC
Program.
2. Analysis of business concepts and technical feasibility: This involves assessing the viability and
potential of business ideas from both a conceptual and technical perspective.
3. Market analysis: This is very important in the follow up of business activities. It involves studying
and understanding the market dynamics, trends, opportunities and challenges to inform business
decision-making.
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NOFO ID: 3226-4281
4. Management analysis and counseling: This involves providing guidance, support, and tools to
help Entrepreneurs effectively manage their businesses. It can prove to be a very valuable and
relevant training activity.
5. Business planning and financial planning assistance: This can turn out to be highly beneficial to
entrepreneurs because it may cover a range of business areas such as business planning,
financial planning, assistance with funding options, financial literacy, risk management, and
business monitoring.
6. Referrals to financial resources: This is important to provide guidance on access to financial
resources,education on financial options, building relationships with financial institutions,
assistance with financial applications and financial literacy.
7. Referrals to existing educational programs for training in such areas as marketing, accounting
and other training programs as may be necessary and available; and
8. Referrals to business incubator facilities, when appropriate, to enter into agreements to access
shared support services.
Additional services that may be offered to Program Participants include, but are not limited to:
Business Planning: Entrepreneurs may face unique challenges when it comes to accessing
o
funding and building a business network. Therefore, training in business planning can help
entrepreneurs to develop a solid business plan that is realistic, scalable and has a solid path to
profitability.
Financial Management: Financial literacy is important for any entrepreneur, including minority
o
business owners, who may have less access to funding and financial resources. With the
inclusion of training in financial management, accounting and bookkeeping, entrepreneurs can
learn how to manage their finances more effectively and create a roadmap to financial success.
Marketing and Branding: Effective marketing and branding is key to building a successful
o
business. With the inclusion of training on market research, branding and marketing strategies,
entrepreneurs can learn to build their brands, and increase their visibility in the marketplace.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Entrepreneurs may face unique legal and regulatory
o
challenges when starting and running a business. With training on compliance with relevant laws
and regulations, entrepreneurs can navigate the legal landscape and avoid potential pitfalls.
Networking and Mentoring: It is expected that the EEC Program should provide opportunities for
o
entrepreneurs to network and connect with other business owners and mentors in their industry
and/or communities. This can help entrepreneurs to build relationships, share knowledge and
gain valuable insights from experienced professionals.
Program History
The $5M Illinois Economic Empowerment Centers Program was launched in 2024 as a pilot initiative and
awarded 10 agencies across the state a total of $2.5M. This NOFO seeks to distribute the remaining
$2.5M in available funds to new and/or existing EECs statewide.
Performance Goals and Measures
The EEC must design and implement data collection systems to collect and report on the following
required programmatic data points:
1. The EEC must monitor and provide a summary of the extent to which the centers serve the
Program
2. Participants and the method by which this information will be verified.
3. Data concerning the Program Participants should be collected at intake (which could be gathered
at a pre-registration for a training or advising session), plus follow-up data should be collected on
participants that have participated in an EECs training program or one-on-one advising.
4. EEC Business Advice/Technical Assistance:
a. Number of Program Participants (new/existing) from the Program Participants who were
referred to financial resources, existing educational programs, and business incubator
facilities.
b. Number of businesses the EEC provided with one-on-one advising.
c. Total hours of one-on-one advising the EEC provided.
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NOFO ID: 3226-4281
d. Number of business plans the EEC helped businesses to create.
Number of formal client pitches/presentations to potential investors the EEC helped
businesses develop.
e. Number of marketing plans the EEC helped businesses to develop.
5. EEC Education and Cohort Training:
a. Number of seminars/workshops/cohorts sponsored/cosponsored conducted.
b. Number of attendees who attended each seminars/workshops/cohorts.
sponsored/cosponsored grouped by the Targeted Program Participants.
c. Number of seminars/workshops/cohorts sponsored/cosponsored which were conducted in
additional languages. Additional Language Type(s) Offered.
d. Number of training certifications issued to businesses that complete the program.
e. Upon the completion of each cohort, the EEC must host a pop-up market event for successful
graduates. This event should include aspects of networking and will offer business owners an
opportunity to demonstrate the skills and training they have received.
f. The EEC must provide a summary report detailing the extent to which the training program is
coordinated with other assistance programs targeted to small and new businesses.
7. EEC Education and Cohort Training:
a. Description of EEC collaborates with any other career education agencies and not-for-profit
corporations, including details the other assistance program services utilized/provided.
b. The EEC must detail the ability of the program to leverage other sources of funding and
support.
8. EEC Business Advice/Technical Assistance and EEC Education and Cohort Training:
a. Description of amount and source of leveraged funding utilized each quarter.
b. Description of how supplemental funding was utilized to support/implement business advice,
technical assistance, and education and cohort training by the EEC to the targeted program
participants.
c. The EEC must provide an overview that details the success of the program in aiding
entrepreneurs to start up new businesses, including the number of new business start-ups
resulting from the program.
9. EEC Business Advice/Technical Assistance and EEC Education and Cohort Training:
a. Number of new jobs created as a result of a business working with an EEC.
b. Number of jobs retained as a result of a business working with an EEC.
c. Number of new business launches as a result of a business working with an EEC.
d. Number of businesses retained as a result of a business working with an EEC.
e. Number of businesses with first recognized revenue as a result of a business working with an
EEC.
f. Number of businesses with first acquired customer as a result of a business working with an
EEC.
g. Number of businesses with first retained customer as a result of a business working with an
EEC.
h. Number of businesses that received their certification as minority-, woman-, persons with
disabilities- and veteran owned through the Business Enterprise Program as a result of a
business working with an EEC.
Other Information
Each EEC must also:
1. Establish an advisory group of community business experts within the first three (3) months of
grant execution, at least one-half of whom shall be representative of the clientele (Program
Participants) to be served by the center, which shall constitute a support network to provide
counseling and mentoring services to minority group members, women, individuals with a
disability, dislocated workers, and veterans from the concept stage of development of the EEC
through the first one (1) to two (2) years of existence of the EEC on a regular basis and as
needed thereafter.
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NOFO ID: 3226-4281
2. The local center advisory groups must meet at least twice per year. Notice of the center’s
advisory group meetings and member listing should be submitted within 30 days advance to OE3.
3. Establish a referral system and linkages to existing area small business assistance programs and
financing resources within the first three (3) months of grant execution; and
4. Develop a system within the first three (3) month of grant execution for tracking business training
and assistance provided to the targeted program participants which must be reported to the
Department through established Periodic Performance Reporting.
B. Funding Information
This grant program is utilizing state funds appropriated by Public Act 104-0003. Total amount of funding
expected to be awarded through this NOFO is $2,500,000. Awards will range from $250,000 to $500,000
The Department expects to make no more than 10 awards through this NOFO.
The period of performance is expected to be July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2028.
This opportunity will be a reimbursable grant. Grantees must meet quarterly programmatic objectives and
matching funds requirements prior to reimbursement.
Eligible expenses under this opportunity are limited to:
the cost of services and expenses of the EEC Program Director;
o
the cost of services and expenses for instructors of the participating career education agency or
o
not-for-profit corporation;
the cost of services and expenses of the faculty and support personnel thereof; and
o
the cost of services and expenses for any other person in the service of providing instruction and
o
counseling in furtherance of the program.
With Department approval, pre-award costs are allowable under this opportunity dating back to the date
of the NOSA.
The release of this NOFO does not obligate the Department to make an award.
C. Eligibility Information
An entity must be registered in the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Grantee Portal,
https://grants.illinois.gov/portal/, at the time of grant application. The portal will verify that the entity:
• Has a valid FEIN number (https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-
employed/get-an-employer-identification-number)
• Has a current SAM.gov registration (https://sam.gov). SAM.gov registrations must be marked as
“public” to allow the GATA Grantee Portal to expedite the review of the federal information;
• Has a valid UEI number (https://sam.gov)
• Is not on the Federal Excluded Parties List (verified at https://sam.gov)
• Is in Good Standing with the Illinois Secretary of State, as applicable
(https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/business_services/corp.html)
• Is not on the Illinois Stop Payment list (verified once entity is registered in GATA Grantee Portal);
and
• Is not on the Department of Healthcare and Family Services Provider Sanctions list
(https://www.illinois.gov/hfs/oig/Pages/SanctionsList.aspx)
Entities on the Illinois Stop Payment List and/or the Federal Excluded Parties List at time of application
submission will not be considered for an award.
An automated email notification to the entity alerts them of “qualified” status or informs how to remediate
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NOFO ID: 3226-4281
a negative verification (e.g., not in good standing with the Secretary of State). A federal Debarred and
Suspended status cannot be remediated.
At this time, federal memo M-21-20 allows entities to apply for grant awards without a valid UEI number.
The UEI number must be obtained prior to grant execution. The State of Illinois has adopted this
guidance for the issuance of state awards also.
Pursuant to the policy of the Illinois Office of the Comptroller, to receive grant funds from the State of
Illinois, a grantee must be considered a regarded entity by the IRS for federal income tax purposes.
Disregarded entities will not be eligible to receive grant funds.
1. Eligible Applicants include:
Career education agencies; and
o
Non-profit organizations, including but not limited to: local development corporations,
o
chambers of commerce, community based outreach centers, and community based
organizations that provide services to underserved businesses and entrepreneurs.
Each center must:
Have a designated EEC Program Director;
o
Be operated by a Board of Directors representing community leaders in business,
o
education, finance, and government;
Be incorporated as a not-for-profit corporation; and
o
Be located in an area accessible to eligible Program Participants.
o
The Department complies with all applicable provisions of state and federal laws and regulations
pertaining to nondiscrimination, sexual harassment and equal employment opportunity including,
but not limited to: The Illinois Human Rights Act (775 ILCS 5/1-101 et seq.), The Public Works
Employment Discrimination Act (775 ILCS 10/1 et seq.), The United States Civil Rights Act of
1964 (as amended) (42 USC 2000a-and 2000H-6), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
(29 USC 794), The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 USC 12101 et seq.), and The Age
Discrimination Act (42 USC 6101 et seq.).
2. Cost Sharing or Matching.
A minimum overall matching contribution of 100% of the grant amount is required. This must
include a minimum cash match of 50% of the grant amount. The remaining 50% of the grant
amount may be provided as in-kind (non-cash) to meet the total required of 100% match.
Cash Match: must be documented and may include host institution funds, state or local
government contributions, or private investment. At least 50% of the total award amount must be
committed as cash each program year.
In-Kind Match: may include allowable, documented costs such as staff salaries, facilities, or
supplies used directly for Illinois Economic Empowerment Center program operations. In-kind
match must comply with state cost principles and be verifiable.
All listed cash and in-kind match must be committed up front and identified by source and
amount/value in the grantee budget. Contributors, requirements, specifications, and/or
deliverables must be clearly identified in the application. Verification documents must be
submitted with the application and may include, but are not limited to:
• Signed leases,
• Signed agreements,
• Signed letters of support,
• Signed MOUs, or
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NOFO ID: 3226-4281
• Contracts.
3. Indirect Cost Rate.
Indirect costs are not eligible for this program.
4. Freedom of Information Act/Confidential Information.
Applications and accompanying materials are subject to disclosure in response to requests
received under provisions of the Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140/1 et seq.). Information
that could be proprietary, privileged, or confidential commercial or financial information should be
clearly identified as such in the application materials. The Department will maintain the
confidentiality of that information only to the extent permitted by law.
5. Other, if applicable.
Applicants may submit multiple application for this opportunity.
D. Application and Submission Information
1. Address to Request Application Package.
Grant application forms are available at the web link provided in the “Grant Application Link” field
of this announcement or by contacting the Program Manager:
Jael Olivares
Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity
555 W. Monroe, 12th Floor
Chicago, IL 60661
Email: CEO.EECProgram@illinois.gov
2. Content and Form of Application Submission.
A standard application package must be submitted to and reviewed by DCEO. Each package
must contain the following items:
Uniform Grant Application in fillable PDF format.
☐
 Signature page must be signed by the authorized signatory before submission
Can be printed, signed, and scanned
o
Can be signed digitally
o
Uniform Budget utilizing the template provided by DCEO for this project.
☐
 The entire Excel document with all the tabs included, even if the tabs are not
relevant to the grant opportunity, must be submitted.
 Do not send a restricted version of the Uniform Budget.
 Certification page must be signed by the authorized signatory before submission
Can be printed, signed, and scanned
o
Can be signed digitally
o
Conflict of Interest Disclosure.
☐
 Conflict of Interest Disclosure must be signed by the authorized signatory before
submission
Can be printed, signed, and scanned
o
Can be signed digitally
o
Mandatory Disclosure.
☐
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NOFO ID: 3226-4281
 Mandatory Disclosure must be signed by the authorized signatory before
submission
Can be printed, signed, and scanned
o
Can be signed digitally
o
This Notice of Funding Opportunity also requires the submission of the following other
programmatic specific items as part of the program application:
☐ Economic Empowerment Center Program Application.
☐ Supporting documents below. Follow the naming conventions provided in the Program
Application and listed below.
• File Name: Section 1.Organization Information
An electronic/digital photo of the project location
o
Copy of the CDFI Map Area, if applicable
o
IRS 501C Determination Letter
o
Mission Statement
o
Articles of Incorporation
o
• File Name: Section 2A/2B
Optional supplemental documentation
o
Proof of Partnership/Backing Documents
o
• File Name: Section 2C
Optional supplemental documentation
o
• File Name: Section 2E
Copies of Organizational Chart
o
Staff/Board of Directors/Partner Resumes
o
Referral Letters/ Programmatic Letters of Support
o
Letters of Support for Match Requirement (both for Cash & In-Kind
o
Funding, see C.2. for more information on these requirements)
Please note there is a maximum upload of 10 documents in the web form that you submit the
application, so combining files may be necessary.
3. Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and System for Award Management (SAM).
Each applicant (unless the applicant is an individual or Federal or State awarding agency that is
exempt from those requirements under 2 CFR 25.110(b) or (c), or has an exception approved by
the Federal or State awarding agency under 2 CFR 25.110(d)) is required to:
(i) Be registered in SAM. To establish a SAM registration, go to https://sam.gov and/or utilize
this instructional link: How to Register in SAM from the gata.illinois.gov Resource Library
tab. SAM.gov registrations must be “public.”
(ii) Provide a valid UEI number in the GATA Grantee Portal registration.
(iii) Continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during
which it has an active Federal, Federal pass-through or State award or an application or plan
under consideration by a Federal or State awarding agency. The State awarding agency may
not make a Federal pass-through or State award to an applicant until the applicant has
complied with all applicable UEI and SAM requirements and, if an applicant has not fully
complied with the requirements by the time the State awarding agency is ready to make a
Federal pass-through or State award, the State awarding agency may determine that the
applicant is not qualified to receive a Federal pass-through or State award and use that
determination as a basis for making a Federal pass-through or State award to another
applicant.
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NOFO ID: 3226-4281
4. Submission Dates and Times.
Applications for this opportunity will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Application materials must be submitted to the Department via electronic form at
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/2ba62593649141b284a59825d3cb957e.
The Department is under no obligation to review applications that do not comply with the above
requirements. Failure to meet the application deadline may result in the Department returning
application without review or may preclude the Department from making the award.
5. Intergovernmental Review, if applicable.
N/A
6. Funding Restrictions.
This opportunity does allow reimbursement of pre-award costs. Other restrictions can be found in
Sections A., B., and C.
7. Other Submission Requirements.
Documents stored in Google Docs or other cloud-based servers are not allowed.
The applicant can receive a copy of their submitted application by checking the “Send me a copy
of my responses” box at the bottom of the application submission form.
Applicants may confirm receipt of the application and documents by contacting the program
contact listed in this NOFO.
E. Application Review Information
1. Criteria.
Grant proposals will be reviewed on a competitive basis. Each proposal will be scored on a 100-
point scale. The Department shall consider the following criteria when evaluating the application
submittal: Need, Capacity, and Quality:
:
Need- Identification of stakeholders, facts, and evidence that demonstrate the proposal
supports the grant purpose
Assessment of Local Economic Distress: Evaluates the applicant’s 6
description of local economic distress and the need for and anticipated impact
of the proposed EEC.
Alignment with Targeted Program Participants & Accessibility: Evaluates 10
the applicant’s cultural competency andDiversity, Equity, Inclusion, and
Accessibility (DEIA) integration, accessibility of their location, organizational
experience, history of service to Targeted Program Participants, and
demonstrated success in helping businesses launch and grow.
Mission Alignment: Evaluates clarity of the mission statement, its alignment 6
with the EEC purpose, and confirmation of required document submission.
Location-Based Priority in CDFI Investment Area: Applicant's EEC location 3
is located in a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Investment
area.
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NOFO ID: 3226-4281
Capacity- The ability of the applicant to execute the project according to requirements
of the grant program
Organizational Capacity & Past Performance: Evaluates the organization’s 5
recent experience delivering business advising and technical assistance to
Targeted Program Participants.
Nonprofit Status, Staffing, Leadership, & Governance Capacity: Evaluates 10
nonprofit status and documentation, Program Director qualifications, Board
structure and representation, board member information, and staff/partner
qualifications.
Partnerships & Support Network: Evaluates the organization’s existing 10
business support ecosystem, the strength of partnerships and backing from
external institutions, and the quality of letters of support submitted.
Financial Capacity, Matching Funds, & Past Grant Fund Management: 10
Evaluates whether the organization has secured the required matching
contributions, clarity of funding sources, documentation provided, transparency
regarding additional funding needs, and history of managing grant funds.
Advisory Council: Evaluates the clarity, feasibility, and completeness of the 5
plan to establish an advisory group within the first three months of grant
implementation.
Quality- The totality of features and characteristics of the project that indicate its ability
to satisfy the requirements of the grant program
Quality of Business Advice & Technical Assistance Plan: Evaluates the 10
organization’s business support ecosystem, referral system plan, tracking
system plan, history of technical assistance to Targeted Program Participants,
and track record of helping businesses launch and grow.
Quality of Education & Cohort Training Plan: Evaluates current training 10
program impact, experience with evidence based cohort training, the tailored
Education and Cohort Training Plan, plans for ongoing technical assistance,
DEIA and language access integration, tra‑ining timeline, and proof of
partnerships.
Quality of Mandato‑ry Client Services Delivery Plan: Evaluates the 10
completeness, clarity, and feasibility of the organization’s Mandatory Client
Services Plan and outreach strategy, covering all required service components.
Quality of Work Plan: Evaluates clarity, completeness, and feasibility of the 5
organization’s work plan for implementing training and services during the grant
period.
2. Review and Selection Process.
Applications will be graded using the Merit Review Process and scored on the criteria specified in
Section E.1. Grants will be awarded utilizing a multi-phase review process. The process consist
of a three-phase approach to fully evaluate applicants’ applications:
1. Initial Review: OE3 staff will perform an initial cursory review as applications are received to
ensure proposals are in compliance with basic form, content requirements, and verified for
GATA pre-qualification. Applications that do not meet the compliance requirements will be
denied. However, applicants may submit a new application for further review.
2. Merit Review: Applications will undergo an in-depth review on a first come first serve basis by a
minimum of three (3) department staff persons. Reviewers utilize a Merit Review Scoring
Rubric to evaluate the strength and completeness of the application. Following the in-depth
review, the application scores are compiled. Applications that meet a score of 70% or above
the total points available may be recommended for award. OE3 may consider geographic
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NOFO ID: 3226-4281
coverage alongside grantee scores when making funding recommendations and may prioritize
EEC projects located in Community Development Financial Insitution (CDFI) investment areas.
3. Following the Merit Review, OE3 staff develops funding recommendations, taking into account
the available state appropriation levels for the EEC program. These recommendations are
submitted for review, approval, and processing through the Department of Commerce and
Economic Opportunity.
The Merit Based Review process is subject to appeal per
https://dceo.illinois.gov/aboutdceo/grantopportunities/meritappreview.html. However,
competitive grant appeals are limited to the evaluation process. Evaluation scores may not be
protested. Only the evaluation process is subject to appeal. The appeal must be submitted
through the merit review appeal request form
(https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/6444bed39ef140c589f002f53b9bc092) within 14 calendar
days after the date that the grant award notice has been published.
3. Anticipated Announcement and State Award Dates, if applicable.
Successful applicants will receive a Notice of State Award (NOSA) to initiate the grant agreement
phase. During this phase, you will be contacted by a grant manager to develop a grant
agreement, which can be a months long process depending on complexity, cooperation, and
conformity with all applicable federal and state laws.
The Department reserves the right to issue a reduced award, or not to issue any award.
F. Award Administration Information
1. State Award Notices.
The Notice of State Award (NOSA) will specify the funding terms and specific conditions resulting
from the pre-award risk assessments and the merit-based review process. The NOSA must be
accepted in the GATA Portal by an authorized representative of the grantee organization. The
NOSA is not an authorization to begin performance or incur costs.
2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements.
Subrecipients and Subcontractors: Agreement(s) and budget(s) with subrecipients and
subcontractors must be pre-approved by and on file with DCEO. Agreements can be submitted
to DCEO when available. Subcontractors and subrecipients are subject to all applicable
provisions of the Agreement(s) executed between DCEO and the grantee. The successful
applicant shall retain sole responsibility for the performance of its subrecipient(s) and/or
subcontractor(s).
Grant Uniform Requirements: The Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (30 ILCS 708/1
et seq.) (and its related administrative rules, 44 Ill. Admin. Code Part 7000), was enacted to
increase the accountability and transparency in the use of grant funds from whatever source and
to reduce administrative burdens on both State agencies and grantees by adopting federal
guidance and regulations applicable to those grant funds; specifically, the Uniform Administrative
Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (2 CFR 200).
Procurement: Grantees will be required to adhere to methods of procurement per the
Procurement Standards (2 CFR 200.317 – 2 CFR 200.327).
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NOFO ID: 3226-4281
3. Reporting.
Periodic Performance Report (PPR) and Periodic Financial Report (PFR)
Grantees funded through this NOFO are required to submit in the format required by the Grantor,
at least on a quarterly basis, the PPR and PFR electronically to their assigned grant manager.
The first of such reports shall cover the first three months after the award begins. Pursuant to 2
CFR 200.328, Periodic Financial Reports shall be submitted no later than 30 calendar days
following the period covered by the report. Pursuant to 2 CFR 200.329, Periodic Performance
Reports shall be submitted no later than 30 calendar days following the period covered by the
report. Any additional reporting requirements will be disclosed in the NOSA. Grantees are
required within 45 calendar days following the end of the period of performance to submit a final
closeout report in the format required by the Grantor (See 2 CFR 200.344).
The Department shall monitor the performance of each entrepreneurial assistance center and
require quarterly reports from each center at such time and in such a manner as prescribed by
Uniform Grant Agreement Reporting Schedule.
Monitoring
Grantees funded through this NOFO are subject to fiscal and programmatic monitoring visits by
the Department in accordance with 2 CFR 200.337. They must have an open-door policy allowing
periodic visits by Department monitors to evaluate the progress of the project and provide
documentation upon request of the monitor. Program staff will also maintain contact with
participants and monitor progress and performance of the contracts. The Department may modify
grants based on performance.
Audit
Grantees shall be subject to Illinois’ statewide Audit Report Review requirements. Terms of the
Single Audit Act Amendments of 1996 (31 USC 7501-7507), Subpart F of 2 CFR Part 200, and
the audit rules set forth under the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act Admin Rules shall
apply (See 44 IL Admin Code 7000.90).
Additional Financial Reporting
Cash requests are to be submitted quarterly, at a minimum, however monthly is preferred.
Reports must include:
• Cash reimbursement request workbook.
• All time and effort forms (must be completed monthly).
• Expenditure backup documentation.
• Proof of matchings funds equal to or greater than the value of the voucher
reimbursement request.
G. State Awarding Agency Contact(s)
Grant Help Desk
Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity
Email: CEO.GrantHelp@illinois.gov
H. Other Information, if applicable
Program Definitions:
 “Career Education Agencies” also known as career development agencies are organizations or
government entities that focus on providing services and support related to career education and
development. These agencies typically work to enhance and promote career-related skills,
knowledge and opportunities for individuals.
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NOFO ID: 3226-4281
 “Chamber of Commerce” means an organization of business and professional persons
dedicated to improving the economic climate and business development of the community, area,
or region in which the organization is located and that: (1) operates as an approved not-for-profit
corporation; (2) is tax-exempt under Section 501 (c)(3) or Section 501 (c)(6) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986.
 “Disability” means, with respect to an individual: (i) a physical or mental impairment that
substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of an individual; (ii) a record of such an
impairment; or (iii) being regarded as having an impairment.
 “Dislocated Worker” means individuals that:
a) Have been laid off, or terminated, or have received notice of layoff or termination due to a plant
closure or mass layoff,
b) Are unemployed through no fault of their own, are eligible for or have exhausted their
unemployment compensation and are unlikely to return to their previous occupation or industry,
c) Were self-employed (including farmers, and ranchers) and are unemployed as a result of
general
economic conditions in their community, or
d) Are displaced homemakers or those who have been dependent on another’s salary but are
now
without.
 “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” or “DEI” is recognizing the value of diverse voices, beliefs
and values that project and emphasize on inclusivity regardless of culture, gender or status.
 "Entrepreneurship assistance center" or “center” means the business development centers
or programs which provide assistance to primarily minority group members, women, individuals
with a disability, dislocated workers and veterans that will be awarded through this initiative.
 “Justice Involved” means residents whose lives have been impacted by the criminal justice
system because they or a close family member have spent substantial time in jail or prison.
 “Minority business enterprise” has the same meaning as provided for "minority-owned
business" under Section 2 of the Business Enterprise for Minorities, Women, and Persons with
Disabilities Act.
 “Minority group member" has the same meaning as provided for "minority person" under
Section 2 of the Business Enterprise for Minorities, Women, and Persons with Disabilities Act.
 “Not-for-profit" also known as a nonprofit organization is an organization that operates for
purposes other than generating profit for its owners or shareholders. Instead, its primary goal is to
pursue a specific mission or purpose that benefits the public or a particular group of individuals.
Not-for-profit can take various forms, including charities, foundations, educational institutions,
religious organizations and social service agencies and are often involved in activities such as
providing humanitarian aid, advancing education, promoting arts, supporting research, advocating
for social causes and addressing community needs.
 “Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individuals (SEDI)-owned business” is:
− A business enterprise that certifies that it is owned and controlled by individuals who have had
their access to credit on reasonable terms diminished compared to others in comparable
economic circumstances, due to:
1. Membership of a group that has been subjected to racial or ethnic prejudice or cultural
bias within American society,
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NOFO ID: 3226-4281
2. Gender,
3. Veteran Status,
4. Limited English proficiency,
5. Disability,
6. Long-term residence in an environment isolated from the mainstream of American
Society,
7. Membership of a Federally or state-recognized Indian Tribe,
8. Long-term residence in a rural community,
9. Residence in a U.S. territory,
10. Residence in a community undergoing economic transitions (including communities
impacted by the shift towards a net-zero economy or deindustrialization), or
11. Membership of an underserved community. “Underserved communities”: Underserved
communities are populations sharing a particular characteristic, as well as geographic
communities, that have been systematically denied a full opportunity to participate in
aspects of economic, social, and civic life, as exemplified by the list in the definition of
equity. “Equity”: Equity is consistent and systematic, fair, just, and impartial treatment of
all individuals, including individuals who belong to underserved communities that have
been denied such treatment, such as Black, Latino, and Indigenous and Native
American persons, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and other persons of color;
members of religious minorities; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer
(LGBTQ+) persons; persons with disabilities; persons who live in rural areas; and
persons otherwise adversely affected by persistent poverty or inequality;
−A business enterprise that certifies that it is owned and controlled by individuals whose
residences are in Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Investment Areas,
as defined in 12 C.F.R. § 1805.201(b)(3)(ii);
− A business enterprise that certifies that it will build, open, or operate a location in a
CDFI Investment Area, as defined in 12 C.F.R. § 1805.201(b)(3)(ii)2;
− A business enterprise that certifies that it is located in a CDFI Investment Area, as
defined in 12 C.F.R. § 1805.201(b)(3)(ii). The CDFI Fund evaluates Puerto Rico, but not
other territories, in identifying CDFI Investment Areas. For purposes of the SSBCI,
Treasury has also evaluated American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and
the U.S. Virgin Islands and has determined that these territories in their entirety constitute
CDFI Investment Areas, because each of these territories has a poverty rate of at least
20 percent. See 12 C.F.R. § 1805.201(b)(3)(ii)(D)(1) ARPA Act of 2021(Pg 71 No. 15-18)
(https://www.congress.gov/117/plaws/publ2/PLAW-117publ2.pdf).
For purposes of the definition of “SEDI-owned business,” a business is “owned and
controlled” by applicable individuals:
− if privately owned, 51 percent or more is owned by such individuals;
− if publicly owned, 51 percent more or of the stock is owned by such individuals; and
in the case of a mutual institution, if a majority of the board of directors, account holders,
and the community which the institution services is predominantly comprised of such
individuals.
 “Very Small Business” or “VSB” – means a business with fewer than 10 employees and
includes independent contractors and sole proprietors.
 "Veteran" means a person who served in and who has received an honorable or general
discharge from, the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, or reserves
thereof, or who served in the Army National Guard, Air National Guard, or Illinois National Guard.
 Women-owned business enterprise" has the same meaning as provided for "women-owned
business" under Section 2 of the Business Enterprise for Minorities, Women, and Persons with
Disabilities Act.
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NOFO ID: 3226-4281
 “Youth Entrepreneur” means a person who is between the ages of 16 and 29 years old that is
seeking community support to start a business in Illinois.
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