The following outlines the general criteria for a training provider to be considered for initial eligibility by a Local Workforce Innovation Board (LWIB), as well as for its training programs.

1. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) requires all states to establish a procedure for Local Workforce Innovation Boards (LWIBs) to determine eligibility for training programs. Only eligible training providers and their eligible training programs will be included in the state’s Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). The requirements of this policy apply to all organizations providing training services to WIOA adults and dislocated workers.
2. Providers of on-the-job training, customized training, incumbent worker training, internships, and paid or unpaid work experience opportunities, or transitional employment shall not be subject to the requirements of this policy.
3. The WIOA statute and the Final Rule distinguish between Eligible Training Providers (ETPs) and programs of study, as one (1) ETP may provide multiple programs of study for a variety of occupations. Each provider’s programs of study are subject to the eligibility requirements in WIOA and the regulations.
   1. A program of study is defined as one (1) or more courses or classes, or a structured regimen that provides job-driven training services and leads to a recognized postsecondary credential, as defined in WIOA, which includes an industry-recognized certificate or certification, a certificate of completion of a registered apprenticeship, a license recognized by the state involved or Federal Government, a postsecondary credential, secondary school diploma or its equivalent, employment, or measurable skill gains toward a recognized postsecondary or secondary school diploma or its equivalent credential or employment. These training services could be delivered in person, online, or in a blended approach.
4. To be eligible to receive funds for the provision of training services, the provider shall be:
   1. An institution of higher education that provides a program that leads to a recognized postsecondary credential;
      1. This may include programs receiving approval or accreditation by the U.S. Department of Education, Illinois Board of Higher Education, Illinois Community College Board, or Illinois State Board of Education.
   2. An entity that carries out programs registered under the Act of August 16, 1937 (commonly known as the ‘‘National Apprenticeship Act’’; 50 Stat. 664, chapter 663; 29 U.S.C. 50 et seq.) as amended by the National Apprenticeship Act of 2021 as recognized in Illinois by the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL), Office of Apprenticeship; or
   3. Another public or private provider of a program of training services, which may include community-based organizations (CBOs) and joint labor-management organizations; or
      1. Training providers must provide a private school license, or appropriate exemption issued by the Illinois Board of Higher Education, Illinois Community College Board, Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation, and/or other relevant licensures. Private school licensure must be submitted with the application, and the status will be verified accordingly.
   4. Eligible providers of adult education and literacy activities under Title II if such activities are provided in combination with occupational skills training; or programs that have been recognized by the industry as meeting the standards necessary for approval or accreditation, when such standards exist.