The High Road Training Partnership (HRTP) Fund, launched by the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), is a grant program focused on supporting key sectors of the regional economy. Its mission aligns with promoting equity, strengthening economic resilience, supporting climate resilience, and improving job quality within Los Angeles County. The program seeks to develop new or scale existing HRTPs that have been validated by labor market data and industry demand. This initiative is vital for the county's recovery from the pandemic-induced economic recession, the negative economic impacts of recent wildfires, and the widening income inequality.
The target beneficiaries of the HRTP Fund are individuals aged 16 and above, with no work authorization documents required for participation. The program specifically aims to serve historically disinvested populations, ensuring they benefit from and are represented and supported in high-growth industries. These populations include, but are not limited to, COVID-19 impacted individuals, English language learners, immigrants & refugees, justice-involved individuals, people experiencing homelessness, people with disabilities, older workers, and veterans. The impact goals are centered around equitable recovery, addressing rising income inequality, and future-proofing the workforce.
The HRTP Fund's priorities and focuses are embedded in its core components: strong partnerships, worker-centered approaches, industry-driven solutions, and comprehensive training solutions. Strong partnerships involve intentional collaboration between employers, worker organizations, labor partners, educational institutions, training providers, and community-based organizations, formalized through agreements. A worker-centered approach integrates worker expertise at every stage, ensuring their perspectives shape program design and evaluation. Industry-driven solutions address current and future industry-wide needs, such as filling vacancies, upskilling for new technologies, or employing targeted talent. Training solutions go beyond skill development to include cash assistance and wraparound supportive services, recognizing the holistic needs for participant success.
Expected outcomes include successful participation, completion, and employment for HRTP participants in quality jobs with career pathways identified prior to program implementation. The program anticipates building a skilled workforce that meets current employer needs and can adapt to future challenges, contributing to a more inclusive and resilient workforce. The HRTP Fund will allocate approximately $17.8 million to support up to 20 partnerships, funding them at two stages: Stage 1 for Piloting or Emerging partnerships (award range $500,000 to $1,000,000 for 12 months) and Stage 2 for Thriving and Growing partnerships (award range $750,000 to $1,000,000 for 12 months). This tiered funding approach reflects a strategic priority to foster both nascent and established initiatives that embody the HRTP framework.
