Chicago’s Workforce Solutions program will expand citywide and provide $12.2 million in new funding to support the job training needs of Chicago businesses in 2025, under a Mayor Johnson proposal approved by City Council today.

Managed by the Department of Planning and Development, the Workforce Solutions program is designed to improve workforce productivity and efficiency through support for employer-led training initiatives involving new hires and incumbent workers.

Program amendments approved today allocate $11.2 million in Tax Increment Financing (TIF) assistance for employers located within 35 TIF districts, and $1 million in Housing and Economic Development bond proceeds for employers located anywhere in the city. The program will provide reimbursements for up to 75% of an employer’s training costs.

Workforce Solutions applications are expected to open in the second quarter of 2025.

Formerly known as TIFWorks, the Workforce Solutions program has awarded more than $35 million in grants to more than 600 businesses since 2003. Previously, the program was limited to employers in select TIF districts.