Illinois Launches $6.5 Million Grant to Strengthen Police Recruitment and Retention

Program Aims to Enhance Community Safety Across the State

The Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board announced today (Tuesday 1/28) that $6.5 million will be available in competitive funding for its Officer Recruitment and Retention Grant.

According to a press release from the ILETSB, the program seeks to strengthen law enforcement agencies around the state by helping with recruitment challenges and efforts to retain offices.

Units of local government, public institutions of higher education, and qualified nonprofit entities are encouraged to apply.

A Boost to Law Enforcement Agencies Facing Recruitment Challenges

This grant is a huge step for local law enforcement, according to ILETSB Executive Director Keith Calloway who said their Board is "committed to supporting law enforcement agencies as they build strong, effective teams."

This grant addresses recruitment challenges and invests in retaining experienced officers who are essential to community safety. We strongly encourage all eligible entities to apply for this funding. -Keith Calloway, Executive Director of ILETSB

The Officer Recruitment and Retention Grant aims to alleviate these challenges by offering advance payments, reimbursements, and working capital advances.

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These financial tools will help agencies implement tailored recruitment initiatives, develop innovative programs to retain experienced officers and enhance community policing efforts, according to the press release.

Investing in the Future of Community Policing

The funding aims to impact safety in Illinois communities by ensuring law enforcement agencies are well-equipped to attract and keep qualified officers on their force. 

For more details or to apply, visit the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board website. Agencies with questions can contact ptb.grants@illinois.gov for assistance.

Applications for the grant are due by February 1, 2025.