Springfield, IL (WAND) – Local apprenticeship programs are getting funding from the state.

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity awarded more than $17 million Monday, which came through the Illinois Works Pre-apprenticeship Program.

Danville Area Community College received $550,000, Richland Community College in Decatur got $495,000 and The Springfield Project will get $325,000.

The program helps increase diversity and access to programs statewide.

Additional information on the program is online.