Nicor Gas opens applications for education and workforce development grants

NAPERVILLE, Ill. July 15, 2026 - Starting July 15, Nicor Gas will open grant applications under its pillar of Education and Workforce Development. Applications are available at www.NicorGas.com/CharitableGiving through Sept. 30, with funding decisions by the end of October. Selected nonprofits and community organizations will be eligible to receive up to $5,000 in grant funds this year.

The Education and Workforce Development pillar primarily supports secondary and post-secondary educational opportunities as well as technical/vocational programs. Nicor Gas values partnerships that align with the company’s workforce development initiatives: improving awareness of careers in energy and helping to develop a qualified workforce. Nicor Gas supports a broad range of education-related programs including but not limited to:

• Skill building and job training programs
• Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) programs and initiatives
• Access to post-secondary education opportunities
• Mentoring and tutoring programs

“Strong communities are built when education and workforce development create clear pathways to opportunity. By investing in learners, job readiness and skills training, we can empower individuals to achieve economic mobility while strengthening the future workforce our communities and industries depend on,” said Jackie Nagel, manager of community engagement at Nicor Gas.

Last year, the company provided grant support to 23 organizations including:

• Career and Networking Center – Supports job seekers with career coaching, mentorship and skill-building workshops.
• Sparkforce – Supports summer manufacturing camps for students ages 12-16.
• West Cook County Youth Club – Supports an after-school program promoting strong study habits and STEM programming

To submit an application for an education and workforce development grant, click here.

To learn more about Nicor Gas’ commitment to its communities, visit www.NicorGas.com/Community.

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About Nicor Gas
Nicor Gas is one of four natural gas distribution companies of Southern Company Gas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), and serves 2.3 million customers in more than 650 communities across Northern Illinois. Ranked as a Most Trusted Utility Brand by Escalent, Nicor Gas is fueling customer choice, innovation, economic growth and a sustainable energy future. Nicor Gas is working to keep bills as low as possible as we continue providing access to clean, safe and reliable natural gas. For more information, visit NicorGas.com.

Media Contact:
Nicole Frett
nfrett@southernco.com