Equity Workforce Planning and Capacity Grants

The Equity Workforce Planning and Capacity Grants are administered by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC), a state agency dedicated to accelerating the growth of the clean energy sector. These grants support organizations that are developing or expanding programs aimed at fostering equitable access to clean energy careers and entrepreneurship, particularly among historically marginalized communities. The initiative responds to the urgent need to grow the Massachusetts clean energy workforce by more than 38,000 workers by 2030, with a focus on well-paying, climate-critical jobs. Grants are available in two primary formats: Planning Grants offering up to $50,000 over a 12-month period for the development of program-ready plans, and Capacity Grants providing up to $150,000 over a two-year period to support staffing, partnerships, curriculum development, and supportive services. Funding supports projects that fall under one or more strategic strands: career pathway training leading to employment in climate-critical occupations, clean energy career awareness for adult learners and job seekers, and the development or expansion of Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs) in clean energy sectors. In addition to financial support, grantees receive technical assistance from MassCEC to improve networking, partnerships, program design, and best practices for outcomes. The grants prioritize applicants that propose data-driven approaches and leverage existing workforce and clean energy resources in Massachusetts. Eligible lead applicants include a wide range of organizations such as community-based organizations, educational institutions, workforce development groups, for-profit training entities, unions, and federally recognized or state-acknowledged tribes. Applicants may apply alone or in partnerships, with a designated lead applicant. Previous MassCEC grantees may apply if proposing distinct new work. Organizations that have already received a planning grant may apply for a capacity grant for further development. The 2025 cycle included priority review dates on December 6, 2024, and February 28, 2025, with a final deadline of May 19, 2025. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with award notifications expected 6–8 weeks post-submission. A pre-application webinar was held on October 23, 2024, and office hours were available through May 15, 2025. Applications must be submitted via email to rfpworkforce@masscec.com with the appropriate subject line, and must include all required forms and attachments outlined in the RFP. Given the program's recurring nature and the emphasis on equitable workforce growth in climate sectors, applicants are encouraged to monitor MassCEC’s website and resources regularly for the next funding cycle, expected to reopen in Spring 2026.

Proposals should be data-driven and leverage existing workforce and clean energy resources in Massachusetts.