Best Workforce Grants in Oklahoma

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and eligible public entities in Oklahoma working on STEM education, basic needs, or social justice programs can seek support for their initiatives; national and regional efforts may also qualify. American Electric Power Foundation supports education, hunger and housing services, and equity-focused programs that may benefit workforce preparation and job readiness efforts.

Nonprofit organizations supporting workforce preparation, education, or basic needs in Oklahoma can apply for funding that enhances local quality of life and economic wellbeing. Focused on workforce development, job training, economic development, education, and essential services, BOKF Foundation invites community-based nonprofits in its Oklahoma service area to request charitable contributions online throughout the year.

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

Nonprofit cultural institutions in Oklahoma offering arts, science, or STEAM programs can seek large-scale support for program, capital, or limited general and endowment needs. William Randolph Hearst Foundation prioritizes arts education, artist development, and youth engagement, so organizations whose cultural work strengthens future workforce skills in creativity and STEM may be eligible.

Nonprofits and other eligible organizations in Oklahoma can apply for Oklahoma Arts Council’s Community Arts Experience Grants, awarding up to US $5,000 per project for festivals, exhibitions, performances, and other audience-based arts programs. Groups whose arts programming supports community vitality or complements workforce and community development efforts may be eligible; a 1:1 cash match is required.

With a mission to lead and amplify the arts, Oklahoma Arts Council provides Oklahoma community arts and education programs with project support up to US $5,000. Funding supports workshops, classes, and community-based arts learning that can build skills and readiness for creative workforce pathways for participants of all ages and abilities.

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Here at the Department of Commerce, our job is to bring employment, investment, and economic prosperity to the state of Oklahoma. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative collaborations with companies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, and government leaders, we are building a business environment that supports business growth and shared community prosperity.

P3 Pooled Finance Program

Allows communities to utilize the state’s Pooled Finance Program for infrastructure development

This Public-Private Partnership (P3) program facilitates local infrastructure development where there is also a benefit to for-profit companies. Infrastructure development can include any critical infrastructure identified by local government entities contributing to the competitiveness of the region’s economy and essential for government functions.

P3 for Education and Workforce Development

Workforce development and access to skilled labor are critical factors for Oklahoma's companies to be competitive in the marketplace and for the continued success of the state's economic development efforts. Workforce boards, CareerTechs, colleges and universities have access to various tools that can help them obtain the necessary resources to develop a skilled workforce.

One of these tools is Oklahoma’s Public-Private Partnership for Education, a Public-Private Partnership (P3) program, that facilitates industry workforce development where there is also a benefit to for-profit companies and is intended to enhance an industry’s competitiveness, enhancing the region’s and state’s economy.

Projects must begin within 6 months of application approval. Awarded funds will not cover 100% of project costs.

What are eligible projects?

Projects where a CareerTech, college or university is providing industry-focused training that must be developed collaboratively with employers in a common industry.

How may the training be delivered?

Workforce training/instruction may be delivered solely by the applying entity or in conjunction with other eligible entities, which may include entities subject to State Department of Education (K-12). For example, a CareerTech may collaborate with a K-12 institution to provide industry-specific skills training.

How does it work?

• For-profit entities in a common industry that would benefit from specific skills development can collaborate with an applying entity to identify the skills required, method of delivery and tools needed to provide instruction.

• The qualifying educational institution would be allowed to capture state withholding taxes associated with those for-profit companies for a defined term to assist with the costs of developing a program and delivering the instruction.

Uses of funds can include the below:

• Assist with construction/renovation; or
• Purchase machinery/equipment; or
• Purchase training program; or
• Hire instructors (contract basis)

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

Nonprofit and humanitarian organizations working on health, education, or disaster relief for marginalized communities, including those serving Oklahoma, can seek support for programs that aid vulnerable populations. Semnani Family Foundation provides global funding that may benefit groups offering social services, healthcare access, or related supports that complement workforce preparation and job readiness efforts.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on community services, environmental conservation, or peacebuilding in Oklahoma can seek support for their programs. With a mission to foster positive change, Dudley T Dougherty Foundation provides charitable groups with funding that may also benefit local workforce preparation and job readiness efforts.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and qualified local government entities near Georgia-Pacific facilities can seek funding for education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental programs in Oklahoma. Georgia-Pacific Foundation supports projects that enhance long-term well-being and sustainability in communities within 30 miles of its manufacturing locations, which may include workforce preparation and job readiness efforts.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Nonprofit and community-based organizations in Oklahoma working to strengthen youth and family resiliency around social determinants of health can apply for Telligen Community Initiative’s Strengthening Families and Communities grants, with awards up to US $150,000. Programs such as family services, parenting education, school health, and related supports may be eligible, including multi-year efforts.

Oklahoma businesses, nonprofits, cooperatives, and public entities developing or improving grocery stores and small food retailers in underserved Oklahoma communities can access funding through the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry’s Healthy Food Financing Program. Support includes grants up to $10,000 and larger loans for construction, equipment, workforce training, and start-up costs, with commitments to hire local residents.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

About Oklahoma CareerTech

For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 62 campuses, 394 PK-12 school districts, 20 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 49 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

Perkins Innovative Grants

Things to know:

• All grants will be on a two-year award cycle (except CTE New Program Grant) to match the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment timeline. To be eligible for awards, recipients will be required to complete and submit their Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.

• Grant recipients will have to show progress towards goal completion by the end of the first year of funding to receive 2nd year funding. These Benchmarks will be developed in collaboration with the Program area innovative grant leads and the recipients.

• Districts can apply for multiple grants. 

There are 8 Innovative Grants that all eligible recipients can apply for: 1) Career Development and Programs of Study; 2) Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships; 3) Supporting CTE Special Populations; 4) High Growth and Emerging Technologies; 5) Innovation in Career Exploration; 6) Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain CTE Instructors - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other; 7) CTE New Program; 8) Improving Academic Proficiency

Career Development and Programs of Study

Career development is an educational program designed to assure students know how to make career choices and create full Carl Perkins Programs of Study individual career plans to prepare themselves for those careers. The program ensures individuals make informed career decisions based on facts. Career development, based upon the tenet that individuals who have career maturity make better career choices and have a better sense of the education plans needed to reach their career goals, including entrepreneurship. Career maturity is when an individual has personal insight into the process of and readiness for making career choices. It is NOT the process of choosing a specific career or job. Career Development programs assist students in defining career pathways that prepare them for high-wage, high-skill, and in-demand occupations.

About Oklahoma CareerTech

For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 62 campuses, 394 PK-12 school districts, 20 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 49 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

Perkins Innovative Grants

Things to know:

• All grants will be on a two-year award cycle (except CTE New Program Grant) to match the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment timeline. To be eligible for awards, recipients will be required to complete and submit their Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.

• Grant recipients will have to show progress towards goal completion by the end of the first year of funding to receive 2nd year funding. These Benchmarks will be developed in collaboration with the Program area innovative grant leads and the recipients.

• Districts can apply for multiple grants. 

There are 8 Innovative Grants that all eligible recipients can apply for: 1) Career Development and Programs of Study; 2) Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships; 3) Supporting CTE Special Populations; 4) High Growth and Emerging Technologies; 5) Innovation in Career Exploration; 6) Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain CTE Instructors - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other; 7) CTE New Program; 8) Improving Academic Proficiency

Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships

In an ongoing effort to support Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education supports the development of new innovative and the enhancement of existing Career Pathways in high-skill, in-demand, or high wage occupations. Career Pathways and corresponding Programs of Study should support local, state, and global industries in meeting workforce needs while embracing rigorous academic and technical education.

About Oklahoma CareerTech

For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 62 campuses, 394 PK-12 school districts, 20 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 49 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

Perkins Innovative Grants

Things to know:

• All grants will be on a two-year award cycle (except CTE New Program Grant) to match the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment timeline. To be eligible for awards, recipients will be required to complete and submit their Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.

• Grant recipients will have to show progress towards goal completion by the end of the first year of funding to receive 2nd year funding. These Benchmarks will be developed in collaboration with the Program area innovative grant leads and the recipients.

• Districts can apply for multiple grants. 

There are 8 Innovative Grants that all eligible recipients can apply for: 1) Career Development and Programs of Study; 2) Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships; 3) Supporting CTE Special Populations; 4) High Growth and Emerging Technologies; 5) Innovation in Career Exploration; 6) Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other; 7) CTE New Program; 8) Improving Academic Proficiency

CTE New Program

Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (ODCTE) supports the implementation of quality CTE programs. The purpose of this grant is to provide startup funding for new CTE programs. This would include any program approved within the past three years. Applicants can only receive one grant within the three-year period. This grant will help overcome the cost barrier of implementing CTE programs by providing schools with funding to purchase necessary equipment and resources to increase enrollments and opportunities for students statewide.

About Oklahoma CareerTech

For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 62 campuses, 394 PK-12 school districts, 20 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 49 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

Perkins Innovative Grants

Things to know:

• All grants will be on a two-year award cycle (except CTE New Program Grant) to match the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment timeline. To be eligible for awards, recipients will be required to complete and submit their Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.

• Grant recipients will have to show progress towards goal completion by the end of the first year of funding to receive 2nd year funding. These Benchmarks will be developed in collaboration with the Program area innovative grant leads and the recipients.

• Districts can apply for multiple grants. 

There are 8 Innovative Grants that all eligible recipients can apply for: 1) Career Development and Programs of Study; 2) Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships; 3) Supporting CTE Special Populations; 4) High Growth and Emerging Technologies; 5) Innovation in Career Exploration; 6) Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain CTE Instructors - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other; 7) CTE New Program; 8) Improving Academic Proficiency

High Growth and Emerging Technologies

The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education supports the development and implementation of innovative high-tech, high-wage CareerTech Academies, State Programs and sequence of courses that align with local, state, and global industry and emerging workforce needs. The grant proposal should embrace rigorous academic and technical learning activities.

About Oklahoma CareerTech

For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 62 campuses, 394 PK-12 school districts, 20 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 49 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

Perkins Innovative Grants

Things to know:

• All grants will be on a two-year award cycle (except CTE New Program Grant) to match the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment timeline. To be eligible for awards, recipients will be required to complete and submit their Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.

• Grant recipients will have to show progress towards goal completion by the end of the first year of funding to receive 2nd year funding. These Benchmarks will be developed in collaboration with the Program area innovative grant leads and the recipients.

• Districts can apply for multiple grants. 

There are 8 Innovative Grants that all eligible recipients can apply for: 1) Career Development and Programs of Study; 2) Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships; 3) Supporting CTE Special Populations; 4) High Growth and Emerging Technologies; 5) Innovation in Career Exploration; 6) Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other; 7) CTE New Program; 8) Improving Academic Proficiency

Improving Academic Proficiency

The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (ODCTE) is committed to improving the academic proficiency of CTE students. This grant is designed to increase academic outcomes in English Language, Arts, Science, and/or Mathematics. Funds are provided so that schools can implement innovative strategies to improve academic performance.

About Oklahoma CareerTech

For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 62 campuses, 394 PK-12 school districts, 20 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 49 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

Perkins Innovative Grants

Things to know:

• All grants will be on a two-year award cycle (except CTE New Program Grant) to match the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment timeline. To be eligible for awards, recipients will be required to complete and submit their Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.

• Grant recipients will have to show progress towards goal completion by the end of the first year of funding to receive 2nd year funding. These Benchmarks will be developed in collaboration with the Program area innovative grant leads and the recipients.

• Districts can apply for multiple grants. 

There are 8 Innovative Grants that all eligible recipients can apply for: 1) Career Development and Programs of Study; 2) Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships; 3) Supporting CTE Special Populations; 4) High Growth and Emerging Technologies; 5) Innovation in Career Exploration; 6) Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain CTE Instructors - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other; 7) CTE New Program; 8) Improving Academic Proficiency

Innovation in Career Exploration

Oklahoma Career and Technology Education supports innovative school improvement efforts to develop middle school STEM exploration programs that lead to increasing academic rigor and student achievement. STEM curriculum should provide project-based learning for the full range of students in grades seven and eight classrooms as well as career awareness and exploration activities for students in grades five, and six.

About Oklahoma CareerTech

For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 62 campuses, 394 PK-12 school districts, 20 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 49 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

Perkins Innovative Grants

Things to know:

• All grants will be on a two-year award cycle (except CTE New Program Grant) to match the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment timeline. To be eligible for awards, recipients will be required to complete and submit their Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.

• Grant recipients will have to show progress towards goal completion by the end of the first year of funding to receive 2nd year funding. These Benchmarks will be developed in collaboration with the Program area innovative grant leads and the recipients.

• Districts can apply for multiple grants. 

There are 8 Innovative Grants that all eligible recipients can apply for: 1) Career Development and Programs of Study; 2) Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships; 3) Supporting CTE Special Populations; 4) High Growth and Emerging Technologies; 5) Innovation in Career Exploration; 6) Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other; 7) CTE New Program; 8) Improving Academic Proficiency

Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain CTE Instructors - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other

In an ongoing effort to support the recruitment and retention of CTE teachers, the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education supports the development of new innovative strategies and the enhancement of existing strategies to recruit and retain Oklahoma’s CTE instructors. The strategies developed with these funds should support a culture of continuous improvement that engages the whole school community in continuously using data to identify problems and develop plans to solve them. A tool like strong school culture is important to the recruitment and retention of CTE instructors in areas that meet local and state workforce needs while embracing innovative methods to support CTE instructors through rigorous professional development, continuing education, among other strategies. HSTW & TCTW grants must utilize 51% of funds on SREB resources or services.

About Oklahoma CareerTech

For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 62 campuses, 394 PK-12 school districts, 20 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 49 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

Perkins Innovative Grants

Things to know:

• All grants will be on a two-year award cycle (except CTE New Program Grant) to match the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment timeline. To be eligible for awards, recipients will be required to complete and submit their Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.

• Grant recipients will have to show progress towards goal completion by the end of the first year of funding to receive 2nd year funding. These Benchmarks will be developed in collaboration with the Program area innovative grant leads and the recipients.

• Districts can apply for multiple grants. 

There are 8 Innovative Grants that all eligible recipients can apply for: 1) Career Development and Programs of Study; 2) Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships; 3) Supporting CTE Special Populations; 4) High Growth and Emerging Technologies; 5) Innovation in Career Exploration; 6) Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain CTE Instructors - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other; 7) CTE New Program; 8) Improving Academic Proficiency

Supporting CTE Special Populations

This grant can be used to help support Oklahoma career and technology education students who belong to a special population to explore career options and for transition support into postsecondary education/training levels as well as employment.

: Individuals with Disabilities, Individuals from Economically Disadvantaged Families, Individuals Preparing for Non-Traditional Fields, Single Parents, Including Single Pregnant Women, Out Of Workforce Individuals, English Learners, Homeless Individuals, Youth In or Aged Out of Foster Care System, and Youth with a Parent who is a member of the Armed Forces and on Active Duty.

This grant can help schools implement transition programs and/or other support strategies to assist in the provision of transferable skill sets to students regarding the attainment of meaningful employment and becoming productive members of society. 

With a mission to strengthen community health education, Oklahoma Department of Libraries provides Oklahoma public libraries, library systems, and volunteer literacy organizations with funding for health literacy and wellness programming. Eligible organizations can receive up to US $7,000 for Story Trails or other projects that promote healthy living, physical activity, and informed health decisions, supporting workforce readiness.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

Nonprofit and public providers of adult education and literacy programs in Oklahoma can seek funding to expand instruction, workforce preparation, and family literacy services. Grants from Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education help Oklahoma workforce-focused programs improve adult basic skills, support parents’ education, assist immigrants learning English, and guide adults toward diplomas and postsecondary training.