Dignity in Pay
The Dignity in Pay program funds Illinois agencies to transform employment services and promote equitable, competitive jobs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Funder: Illinois Department of Human Services
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to $225,000 annually per awardee, based on tier; total program funding approx. $2,000,000; up to 15 awards; project period up to 2 years with possible renewals.
Summary: Supports Illinois providers in expanding equitable employment and compensation opportunities for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities.
Key Information: Forecasted cycle—dates and requirements may shift; eligibility limited to agencies with active/pending Section 14(c) certificates.
Description
The Dignity in Pay program, administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Developmental Disabilities, funds community agencies to transform their employment services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The initiative aims to phase out subminimum wage practices, expand integrated and competitive employment opportunities, and promote economic self-sufficiency and social inclusion for people with I/DD across Illinois. Grantees receive funding, technical assistance, and training to implement organizational changes, develop new service models, and build capacity for sustainable provider transformation.
