Chicago to Expand Youth Jobs Program by 2027
Mayor Brandon Johnson proposes a $24 million funding increase to support 7,000 additional summer employment opportunities.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Internships
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Should your city prioritize increasing funding for youth summer employment programs?
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has proposed a $24 million boost to the city's summer youth jobs program to fund 7,000 new positions by 2027. This initiative aims to increase the total number of available youth jobs to 40,000 for residents aged 14 to 24.
Why it matters
The city aims to meet high demand for employment among younger residents while attempting to mitigate youth violence. Providing these opportunities helps address the persistent gap between the 60,000 annual applicants and the currently available roles.
The proposed tax of $25 per employee for companies with at least 125 workers is estimated to generate $101 million in annual revenue. This helps bridge the gap compared to the 20,544 positions funded before the current administration.
The players
Brandon Johnson
Brandon Johnson is the 57th Mayor of Chicago who took office in 2023 with a platform focused on addressing systemic economic inequality.
The details
Participants in the six-week program serve in roles ranging from retail and restaurant staff to government office support and grocery store stockers. The city facilitates these roles by hiring directly at sister agencies, awarding grants to community organizations, and establishing corporate partnerships.
Timeline
2025: City increased youth employment funding by $25.6 million.
2026: City increased youth employment funding by $6.2 million.
2027: Proposed increase to the youth jobs program takes effect.
Market Landscape
This proposal navigates the competitive labor market against the backdrop of an $882.4 million city budget gap. It positions the administration toward workforce development despite the fiscal constraints currently facing major city employers.
Local families may see expanded summer employment options for teenagers aged 14 to 24 in neighborhoods across the South and West sides. Businesses with 125 or more employees should prepare for potential adjustments in operating costs if the proposed $25 head tax is enacted.
The takeaway
The program balances the immediate need for youth engagement with the logistical challenge of scaling to 40,000 positions. Residents should monitor upcoming city council deliberations to see how proposed corporate taxes may impact local business operating expenses.
Further reading
For more context on workforce development for young adults, visit the Internships section.
Live Poll
Should your city prioritize increasing funding for youth summer employment programs?
