ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman reacted today to the announcement that EDDR Foundation in Rockford would receive $440,000 in funding through the Illinois Work Pre-Apprenticeship Program.

“The needs of the workforce remain a priority of mine, so I’m encouraged to see a second round of investment in the Rockford area,” Stadelman said (D-Rockford) in reference to EDDR earning a same-size grant in 2024. “The continuation of this program will increase access to good-paying jobs for underrepresented populations in our region.”

EDDR is among 39 organizations to receive $17 million in pre-apprenticeship grants statewide. Pre-apprenticeship grants are used to create a diverse pool of skilled candidates in construction and building trades and help them establish careers in the field.

Click here to learn more about the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program.