Best Workforce Preparation Job Readiness Grants

The Eastern Oregon Border Board Scott Fairley Memorial Edge Grant aims to foster economic and workforce development in the region. With a maximum award of $25,000, it supports projects that enhance prosperity, improve the property tax base, and increase workforce availability. Applicants include residents, businesses, and organizations within the Border Region. This grant prioritizes innovative solutions that demonstrate a clear impact on the community's economic vitality.

The Eastern Oregon Border Board Education and Workforce Training Grant aims to enhance economic development and workforce training in the Border Region. Grants of up to $100,000 are available for local educational service providers to implement programs that improve workforce skills, property tax base, and regional competitiveness. Priority is given to projects that leverage additional funding and significantly impact the local economy, ensuring a sustainable growth strategy for the community.

Employ Milwaukee Inc. is offering funding under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) for youth workforce development services targeting young people aged 14 to 24 in Milwaukee County. The initiative aims to connect youth with employment opportunities and education, fostering a skilled workforce. Organizations are invited to submit innovative proposals for two service models: Out-of-School Youth Services and In-School Youth Services, focusing on comprehensive service delivery and collaboration with local partners.

The Banner Bank Community Support Program offers grants to nonprofit organizations in Washington, Oregon, California, and Idaho focusing on housing, youth development, financial education, and economic growth. Priority is given to programs aiding low- and moderate-income populations. Organizations applying must not discriminate and should support essential community services. Applications are accepted year-round, with a review period of 45-60 days. However, certain areas, such as individual scholarships and political organizations, are ineligible for funding.

The Callison Foundation Grant supports small organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area focused on educational success for marginalized children, youth at-risk, and vulnerable adults. Grants of up to $25,000 are awarded in three areas: education, children and youth services, and adult and senior services. Organizations can receive funding for five years within an eight-year period, with a preference for those with unique offerings and limited government funding.

Workforce Development

The Arkansas Space Grant Consortium (ASGC), a participant in the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program (NSGCFP), invites applications for the NASA Space Grant Workforce Development Award. This award offers internships at NASA Centers or aerospace-related industries, aimed at encouraging students to prepare for careers in professional aerospace fields.

The Live Más Scholarship, offered by the Taco Bell Foundation, supports students aged 16-26 pursuing higher education and workforce readiness. Emphasizing passion and impact, applicants showcase how their interests drive positive change in their communities. The foundation is dedicated to breaking down educational barriers, fostering creativity across various fields including arts, technology, and entrepreneurship. This initiative empowers young dreamers to turn their aspirations into actionable goals, creating meaningful contributions to society.

Illinois Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program

This NOFO sets forth the requirements for funding the Illinois Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program (20 ILCS 730/5-20; 14 Ill. Admin. Code Part 840) and the Energy Transition Barrier Reduction Program (20 ILCS 730/5-30), as specified by the Energy Transition Act as part of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, PA 102-0662 ("Climate and Equitable Jobs Act" or "CEJA") and PA 104-458, as amended. CEJA establishes several workforce programs, administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, to expand the clean energy workforce in Illinois and accelerate the adoption of clean energy sources, electric vehicles, and energy efficiency. Finally, this NOFO will provide additional training funds for successful applications under the CPRG Program. The CPRG Program is funded by the federal Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that allocated funds to the Illinois EPA Office of Energy under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant [FAIN 00E03862] to implement greenhouse gas reduction measures.

Investments in clean energy technology and infrastructure, funded through CEJA and other state and federal funding sources, will generate significant construction, installation, maintenance, and repair activity in Illinois. Historically, these investments have not benefited all Illinois' communities and workers.

The Illinois Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program is one of several programs created by CEJA to grow the clean energy workforce in a more equitable way.

To create a qualified, diverse pipeline of workers prepared for careers in clean energy, the Illinois Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program creates Clean Jobs Workforce Hubs in 14 regions throughout the State to provide clean energy and related workforce and training opportunities to participants, engage with potential employers, and form partnerships to ensure participants have dedicated and sustained support to build careers in clean energy and related sector jobs. The main objective of the Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program is to increase access to and opportunities for education, training, and support services to help program-eligible individuals succeed in the labor market generally and the clean energy sector specifically. Upon completion, participants will be prepared for entry-level clean energy jobs.

The regional Clean Jobs Workforce Hubs include:

• Chicago (South Side)
• Chicago (Southwest and West Sides)
• Waukegan
• Rockford
• Aurora
• Joliet
• Peoria
• Champaign
• Danville
• Decatur
• Carbondale
• East St. Louis
• Alton 

The CFPBMC Summer Program Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Florida aiming to enhance community impact through strategic focus areas such as capacity building, economic opportunity, education and youth, and thriving communities. Grants of up to $75,000 are available for projects that align with these areas. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt. The grant process encourages innovative solutions to community challenges, fostering collaboration and sustainable development.

The CFPBMC Year-Round Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Palm Beach and Martin Counties. It encourages projects aligned with four focus areas: Capacity Building, Economic Opportunity, Education and Youth, and Thriving Communities. Grants can reach up to $75,000 and are awarded based on a competitive process. Interested organizations must submit a Letter of Inquiry and may be invited to submit a full proposal based on their alignment with the foundation's mission and strategic goals.

The University Center at Harrisburg Grant Fund supports non-profit organizations focused on skill and workforce development in specific Pennsylvania counties. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or partner with them. The fund prioritizes projects that directly benefit local communities. However, it does not support advertising, capital campaigns, or projects with insufficient sustainability plans. Grant seekers can apply for projects that align with their needs and the fund's guidelines.

The Indian River County United Way Grants aim to enhance community welfare through strategic funding in Education, Financial Stability, and Health. The program supports high-performing nonprofits addressing essential needs like food security, housing, and employment. With a focus on measurable outcomes, the grants operate on a two-year funding cycle, welcoming applications from both established and new programs. Although currently not accepting applications, this initiative signifies a commitment to improving local living conditions and empowering residents through effective resource allocation.

The Community Impact Grants by the United Way of Martin County support local programs focusing on health, education, and financial stability. These grants aim to enhance community well-being by funding organizations that demonstrate measurable outcomes and align with the United Way's mission. Eligible programs must be 501(c)(3) entities, serve Martin County residents, and have a track record of at least two years. A review panel of community leaders evaluates applications to ensure impactful funding.

The United Way of Martin County offers Community Impact Grants to support programs addressing health, education, and financial stability needs. New agencies or those presenting new programs must submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) for consideration. The grant process evaluates organizational capacity and community impact, ensuring the program aligns with local priorities. Eligible agencies must be 501(c)(3) organizations with a proven track record of service, measurable outcomes, and a commitment to improving the lives of Martin County residents.

The Professional Development Grant at Wake Forest University supports undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need. The grant covers essential expenses such as professional wardrobe items necessary for job interviews and career fairs. Students can apply for up to $400 to facilitate their career exploration and job search process. Priority is given to those who have not previously received this grant. Applications are reviewed bi-monthly on the 15th and last day of each month.

The Boettcher Foundation's Rural Catalyst Grants empower Colorado's rural communities by providing funding of $1,000 to $10,000 for capacity-building initiatives. Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits and governmental entities can apply for support in areas like strategic planning, convening, and one-time operating costs. The foundation prioritizes organizations that enhance leadership and community collaboration, ensuring impactful projects that strengthen rural Colorado's future.

The A.C. Ratshesky Foundation Grant for Workforce Development aims to empower economically disadvantaged individuals and families by providing essential educational and vocational services. Prioritizing programs that enhance skills and foster self-sufficiency, the foundation supports initiatives like job placement, training, and employer partnerships. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $25,000, focusing on organizations that can effectively utilize these funds to promote long-term employment and economic security in Metro Boston communities.

The Illinois Works Pre-apprenticeship Program aims to expand opportunities in the construction industry for underrepresented populations, including women, veterans, and people of color. Administered by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, this program focuses on areas lacking pre-apprenticeship initiatives and encourages participation from historically underserved communities. With funding ranging from $150,000 to $550,000 and an anticipated 35 awards, it plays a vital role in promoting diversity and inclusion within the building trades.

The Kamp Scholarship Fund, established in 2014, aims to provide scholarships that promote career education and training. It primarily supports students in engineering, business, and medicine. To be eligible, applicants must be residents of Hawaii, demonstrate financial need, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years, ensuring ongoing support for deserving students in their educational pursuits.

The Workforce for Georgia Grant Program, initiated by the Georgia Foundation for Public Education and Georgia Power Foundation, offers up to $50,000 to enhance Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) in Georgia schools. This initiative aims to improve educational pathways aligned with local workforce needs. Eligible applicants include district-level staff and school administrators from high schools with CTAE programs. The funding supports program development, teacher training, and necessary resources to ensure students are job-ready upon graduation.

The William Penn Foundation invites proposals to reduce barriers to accessing and completing workforce training in Philadelphia. This initiative aims to enhance the effectiveness of quality workforce programs for populations facing significant challenges, such as young individuals not in school or working, returning citizens, and immigrants. With $5 million available, the Foundation seeks projects that will help these groups transition to employment and ensure job retention, fostering economic mobility for themselves and their families.

The 2025-2026 Perkins V grant aims to enhance career and technical education (CTE) for secondary students by developing their academic and employability skills. It focuses on integrating rigorous academic and technical instruction, increasing flexibility in service provision, and building partnerships among educational institutions and industries. Additionally, the program seeks to support underrepresented populations, ensuring they gain the necessary skills for competitive employment in high-demand fields.

The Job Training Economic Development Program (IL) aims to support under-employed, unemployed, and underrepresented individuals by providing career pathways and essential services for workforce re-entry. Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, this program seeks to alleviate economic challenges through flexible funding for barrier reduction services, potentially assisting around 1,000 individuals in various Economic Development Regions. The initiative emphasizes accountability in fund usage to prevent fraud or misuse.

The Larimer County Community Foundation offers Intersections Grants, focusing on impactful funding for organizations addressing community needs in Berthoud, Estes, Fort Collins, and Loveland. Aimed at 501c(3) entities and educational institutions, these grants prioritize general support for initiatives related to Sheltering & Caring and Connecting Intersections. This approach ensures that donor contributions effectively enhance community legacy and engagement.

The Economic Freedom: Workforce Development Grant Opportunity, offered by the Colorado Gives Foundation, aims to enhance job market adaptability for Jefferson County residents. This grant supports nonprofits that provide solutions leading to higher wages, promote educational transparency, and bridge skill gaps in education. Organizations eligible must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or government entities focused on serving Jeffco, ensuring that their initiatives directly impact the community's workforce development.

The McClure Foundation Mini-Grants aim to enhance career exploration and postsecondary planning for young Vermonters. With grants ranging from $250 to $2,500, the program supports schools, libraries, and community organizations that provide crucial resources for students. Given the low continuation rates to higher education, these grants seek to make pathways to promising careers more visible, accessible, and equitable, ensuring that all young people in Vermont have the support they need to succeed.

The Initiative Foundation offers Economic Development, Workforce Grants to support projects that drive economic growth in Central Minnesota. These grants focus on early-stage initiatives that enhance workforce development, create partnerships for apprenticeships, and encourage affordable housing. Eligible applicants include local governments and 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving specific counties and tribal nations. The Foundation prioritizes innovative strategies that attract and retain workers, fostering a thriving economy and vibrant communities.