Looking to recertify? This fund is for you.

The CADC Workforce Retention Fund is for current counselors who hold an active ICB CADC credential that is in good standing. This fund provides assistance with recertification fees. Retired Emeritus Status is not eligible. This program is not available to other ICB credentials at this time. To qualify, your work environment must be related to the substance use services field or you plan to obtain work in the substance use services field.

This opportunity is available only while funds last. This fund is first come, first served.

Members with renewal dates between April 1, 2026 through June 28, 2026, can apply for these funds now.

Pursuing your CADC for the first time? These funds are for you.

The CADC Initial Applicant Fund provides funding at each stage of the application process. Note that you have to complete a new application prior to applying for each step. These funds include funding for the Application Fee, Examination Fee, and Initial Certification Fee.



Application Fee


This is for individuals applying for the CADC for the first time. The fund will cover the cost of the initial application fee, while funding lasts. This is only for those who have not yet sent in a CADC application. Apply for this fund BEFORE submitting your initial application.

Please reference the Counselor Model to ensure you meet the requirements for the certification before submitting your CADC application. Your work environment must be related to the substance use services field or you plan to obtain work in the substance use services field. This program is only for the CADC credential and is not available for other ICB-offered credentials at this time. You will be required to submit your CADC application within 30 days of approval for this grant fund.

Applicants have until noon on May 20, 2026 to apply for this fund.



Examination Fee


This fund is for individuals who have submitted their CADC application and have been approved to take the CADC exam. This fund will cover the cost of the CADC exam fee, while funding lasts. Your work environment must be related to the substance use services field or you plan to obtain work in the substance use services field. This program is only for the CADC credential and is not available for other ICB-offered credentials at this time. You will be required to take the CADC exam within 90 days of approval for this grant fund.


The opportunity for this fund has closed for FY26. Please check back after July 2026 to see updates.



Initial Certification Fee


This fund is for individuals who have completed the CADC application, passed the CADC exam, and have been approved for their initial certification. This fund will cover the cost of the CADC initial certification fee, while funding lasts. Your work environment must be related to the substance use services field or you plan to obtain work in the substance use services field. This program is only for the CADC credential and is not available for other ICB-offered credentials at this time. If you are approved for the CADC Initial Certification Fund, your initial certification fee will be covered and your certificate will be issued to your digital wallet within the Certemy portal within 10 business days.


Applicants have until noon on June 17, 2026 to apply.

Ready to Apply?

The CADC Workforce Expansion Program is a collaborative funding agreement with the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery, the Illinois Certification Board, and Phase 2 Accredited Training Programs.

You will be notified via email if you are approved for funding.