Foundations in Industry Training (FIT) Grant Program

The Foundations in Industry Training (FIT) Grant Program is a statewide initiative managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). This program is designed to address the growing challenge among Pennsylvania employers in finding candidates who possess the specialized skills required for today’s evolving industries. The FIT Grant supports both Registered Apprenticeship and Pre-Apprenticeship Programs that offer high-quality, structured training aligned with specific workforce needs. These programs allow individuals to acquire technical and academic skills while earning wages, creating a dual pathway that supports both personal development and the talent demands of businesses across the Commonwealth. The primary objective of the FIT Grant is to increase accessibility to apprenticeship opportunities for Pennsylvania employers. By subsidizing the cost of Related Training Instruction (RTI), which complements On-the-Job Training (OJT), the program enables sponsors to deliver a comprehensive training experience. The grant is authorized under Pennsylvania’s Commerce Law and funded through the state’s General Appropriations Act. It aligns with DCED’s broader mission to foster business and workforce development throughout Pennsylvania by supporting initiatives that lead to job creation and economic resilience. Eligible applicants include a wide range of organizations that sponsor registered apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship programs within the state. This includes single employers, employer consortiums, workforce development boards, labor organizations, economic development organizations, post-secondary institutions, and community associations. Applicants must demonstrate active employer involvement in their training programs. Proposals are especially encouraged to emphasize collaborative partnerships across eligible organization types. All programs must be registered with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry’s Apprenticeship and Training Office (ATO). Funds may be used to cover expenses directly tied to RTI, such as instructor salaries, educational materials, contracted services for academic instruction, and travel within Pennsylvania for trainers. Limited administrative support expenses—up to 10% of total direct grant costs—are also eligible. Ineligible costs include apprentice wages, entertainment, out-of-state travel, indirect costs unrelated to RTI, and costs outside the contractual activity period. Funding is capped at $3,000 per apprentice or pre-apprentice per year, for up to three years, and a maximum of five apprentices per employer annually. Group model programs can apply for up to 30 apprentices but must not exceed five placements per employer. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis through the DCED’s Electronic Single Application for Assistance portal. Each application must include a narrative project description, a certificate of registration from ATO, a detailed budget, and commitment letters from participating employers. Applicants must submit reports annually and at project closeout, with templates provided by DCED. Funding is disbursed on a reimbursement basis, and recipients must maintain thorough records and comply with labor laws, nondiscrimination policies, and other administrative requirements. Any project revisions must be pre-approved by DCED. Program inquiries can be directed to Gwen A. Ross, Director of Workforce Development Initiatives at DCED, via email at [email protected] or by phone at 717-720-7386. The FIT Grant Program operates year-round, contingent on available funding. As a recurring opportunity, applicants are encouraged to plan ahead for subsequent cycles. Performance reports and financial documentation are required annually, with closeout materials due within 60 days of the grant’s conclusion. This program represents a robust investment in building Pennsylvania’s skilled workforce by supporting apprenticeship models that directly align with industry needs.

Ensure apprenticeships are registered with ATO and employer engagement is well-documented to meet eligibility.