State Workforce Development Grants

The Regional Site Readiness Program’s Planning Grant, funded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, offers $100,000 to $500,000 to local governments, economic development organizations, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, and private landowners for planning and due diligence activities aimed at preparing industrial and manufacturing sites for future development across all counties in Illinois.

This program provides funding to rural Kansas communities with populations under 5,000 for projects that enhance quality of life, such as childcare improvements, public art, library upgrades, and food retail expansions.

This funding opportunity supports New Jersey Workforce Development Boards in creating partnerships to improve adult literacy and job skills for residents, helping them secure stable employment and achieve self-sufficiency.

The Tennessee Urban and Community Forestry (U&CF) Assistance Program, announced by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry (TDF), is a grant opportunity provided in partnership with the Forest Service. This program aims to promote the creation, enhancement, and protection of urban and community forest ecosystems throughout Tennessee, supporting full-circle management of these valuable resources. The broader mission alignment for this program is rooted in fostering sustainable and healthy communities through environmental stewardship, which aligns with the strategic priorities of both the Forest Service and the Tennessee Department of Agriculture. The program targets units of local governments (city, town, county), non-profit 501(c)3 organizations, and public educational institutions. Community tree volunteer groups, neighborhood associations, or civic groups that are not 501(c)3 organizations are also eligible if they apply in partnership with a non-profit or local government. The impact goals are to integrate U&CF principles into planning, promote the role of U&CF in human health and wellness, cultivate diversity and leadership in the U&CF community, strengthen forest health and biodiversity, improve management and stewardship, and increase funding for U&CF initiatives. Key priorities for projects include extreme heat mitigation, urban wood utilization, urban food forests, and workforce development. The program also emphasizes increasing public awareness and environmental education to promote stewardship, as well as engaging with communities under the Justice40 initiative through outreach, education, and technical and financial assistance. This focus reflects a strategic theory of change that links targeted interventions in urban forestry to broader improvements in public health, environmental resilience, and social equity within Tennessee communities. Expected outcomes and measurable results include facilitating strong partnerships among various governmental and non-profit entities, increasing awareness and practice of full-circle management in urban forests, and improving community preparedness for natural disasters. The program also seeks to increase the number of communities participating in Arbor Day Foundation recognition programs and to increase awareness of the numerous benefits of trees, such as those related to extreme heat mitigation and stormwater management. Applicants can apply for amounts between $5,000 and $40,000, with projects expected to be completed within one year. Eligible projects encompass urban and community forestry management, tree planting, program development or capacity building, urban and community wood utilization, and workforce development.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to county governments in Kern and Los Angeles Counties for training programs that prepare workers to safely cap abandoned oil wells, ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations.

The Walter F. Goodnough Trust offers grants specifically designed to support the rehabilitation of underprivileged disabled children, with its mission directly aligned with improving the health and well-being of this vulnerable population through hospitalization within the state of Florida. This grant program is a core component of the trust's philanthropic efforts, focusing on a critical area of need within the healthcare sector for children facing both disability and financial hardship. The foundation's strategic priorities are centered on direct impact within Florida's healthcare landscape, particularly for disabled children. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are underprivileged disabled children in Florida who require hospitalization for rehabilitation. The impact goal is to facilitate their recovery and improve their quality of life by providing financial support for necessary medical interventions. The trust prioritizes health-related programs and aims to ensure that eligible organizations, specifically 501(c)(3) exempt organizations, can access funding to serve these children. While specific detailed expected outcomes and measurable results are not explicitly stated beyond "rehabilitation," the implicit outcome is improved health and functional abilities for the children served. Success would likely be measured by the number of children assisted, the types of rehabilitation services provided, and potentially the duration or effectiveness of their hospitalization and recovery. The average grant size of $2,500 to $5,000, with an average total giving of $15,000 per year, indicates a focus on supporting individual or smaller-scale rehabilitation projects. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by providing financial grants to qualified organizations, they can directly enable access to crucial rehabilitation services that might otherwise be out of reach for underprivileged families. The geographic limitation to Florida and the program area of Health further underscore this focused approach to addressing specific community needs.

The Humanities Project Grants, administered by the State Historical Society of Iowa and funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), aim to support public humanities projects that encourage contemplation, spark conversation, and engage the community. This aligns with a broader mission to explore the human experience through educational programming. The program's strategic priority is to use humanities as a central resource to involve and benefit diverse groups of Iowans, fostering public value through deliberate public engagement and access to project activities. The target beneficiaries for this grant program include federally tax-exempt 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations incorporated and physically located in Iowa, or in border state communities demonstrating significant impact on Iowa's cultural vitality. Units of local, county, or federally-recognized tribal governments physically located in Iowa are also eligible, as are units within Iowa-based institutions of higher education with a core humanities mission. Individual filmmakers or humanities experts who are current, legal Iowa residents are also eligible, provided their projects are initiated and managed by the individual and do not primarily benefit an organization. The impact goal is to involve and benefit diverse groups of Iowans through educational programming exploring the human experience. The program prioritizes projects where humanities are central and demonstrate public value to Iowans. Eligible projects span various formats, including community discussions, lecture series, workshops, films, interpretive exhibits, and podcasts. While creative or performing arts projects may be eligible, they must serve as a catalyst for a humanities-centric project and include interpretation and/or discussion of the art. Subject areas considered include archaeology, comparative religion, cultural anthropology, ethics, folklore, gender studies, history, jurisprudence, languages, law, linguistics, literature, philosophy, and the interpretation of the arts, as well as aspects of social sciences that explore humanity and meaning within communities. Expected outcomes include increased public engagement with humanities topics and enhanced cultural vitality across Iowa. Projects are expected to benefit diverse groups of Iowans through educational programming. Measurable results would likely stem from the types of eligible projects, such as attendance at community discussions, lecture series, or workshops, or the reach of films, exhibits, or podcasts. The funding period for all project activities and expenses is November 1, 2024, to October 31, 2025, with grants ranging from $2,500 to $30,000 to cover eligible one-time project expenses. The program's theory of change posits that by funding accessible and engaging public humanities projects, it will foster deeper contemplation, conversation, and community engagement, ultimately enriching the human experience for Iowans.

This grant provides financial support to small businesses in New Ulm, particularly in the restaurant, retail, childcare, and light manufacturing sectors, to promote local economic development.

The Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund (RMPIF) aims to elevate the standard of living in rural Maryland to or beyond statewide averages by 2030, while simultaneously preserving the unique cultural heritage and rural way of life. The fund, overseen by the Rural Maryland Council, provides targeted investments in economic and community development programs. This aligns with a broader mission to encourage entrepreneurial activity, foster a balanced economy, and relieve unemployment and underemployment in rural areas, ultimately promoting the overall health and welfare of rural residents across the State. RMPIF targets all rural counties in Maryland, benefiting local governments, higher education institutions, regional councils, and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving rural constituencies. The core impact goal is to facilitate sustainable rural development by enabling these organizations to leverage additional non-state resources. Key priorities include the retention of valuable farm and forest land, promotion of intergovernmental and public-private partnerships, enhancement of essential infrastructure (housing, transportation, water, wastewater, broadband), and support for rural commercial center redevelopment and community revitalization efforts. The program's expected outcomes include increased entrepreneurial activity and commerce, a reduction in unemployment and underemployment, the productive use of farm and forest land, and improved infrastructure and services in rural areas. Measurable results for Fiscal Year 2025 include a State budget of $1,500,000 in General Funds specifically allocated for the entrepreneurship portion of the RMPIF program. The fund's theory of change posits that strategic investments and collaborative efforts will lead to a more prosperous, sustainable, and equitable future for rural Maryland, directly contributing to the well-being and economic stability of its residents. Eligible expenditures for RMPIF include salaries and wages, administrative costs (construction, leasing, renovation of buildings, purchase/rental of vehicles, equipment), and reasonable meal costs with justification. Administrative expenses, however, are capped at 25% of the grant request, and indirect administrative costs at 10%. Acquisition of land is not an eligible expense. Applicants are strongly encouraged to include a statement on sustainability for future years, ensuring the long-term impact and viability of the funded initiatives.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to organizations in New York to deliver essential work readiness training for individuals facing employment barriers, helping them develop the skills needed to succeed in the workforce.

Grant program designed to train underrepresented population to successfully enter the construction industry and the trades. The program focuses removing barriers for entry and transitioning graduates to DOL-registered apprenticeship programs. The goal of the Illinois Works Act is to ensure that all Illinois residents have access to State capital projects and careers in the construction industry and building trades, as well as provide contracting and employment opportunities to historically underrepresented populations in the construction industry and the trades. The Illinois Works Pre-apprenticeship NOFO and program is a critical component in the success of the Act, by increasing the number of qualified construction and building trades apprentices who are women, people of color, veterans or from otherwise underrepresented populations (as defined by the Illinois Works Jobs Program Act) and preparing them to enter full apprenticeship programs on their way to careers in construction and the building trades.

The Teaching with Primary Sources (TPS) program is the Library of Congress's primary educational outreach initiative, designed to provide instructional materials, tools, education, and professional development to teachers. The program's core mission is to enhance educators' ability to integrate digitized primary sources from the Library of Congress into their instruction. This integration aims to build student literacy, critical thinking skills, content knowledge, and the ability to conduct original research. Since the establishment of the Center for Learning, Literacy and Engagement in 2018 and the release of the Library's strategic plans, the TPS goals have evolved to both influence and reflect the Library's broader outreach objectives, aligning closely with its vision of connecting to all Americans. The program primarily targets educators and, by extension, their students. Through its initiatives, TPS aims to reach a wide array of learners, including those representing specific professions, ethnicities, geographic locations, abilities, interests, and affiliations, particularly those identified as underserved by the program. The impact goals are centered on fostering deeper learning experiences, improving educational outcomes, and empowering both teachers and students with valuable research and analytical skills. TPS Consortium members are critical to achieving these goals, acting as "Connectors" who facilitate this extensive outreach and help the Library fulfill its mission of widespread public engagement. The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for Continuing Awards (FY25-FY27) emphasizes several key priorities and focuses. It seeks project proposals from current TPS Consortium members to expand the use of existing teaching materials, tools, and strategies developed under previous awards. A significant focus is on disseminating these resources to meet the diverse needs of various recipient populations. Applicants are required to demonstrate how they will support current and new audiences by reviewing and revising existing TPS products, modifying them for enhanced value, and developing effective strategies and networks to facilitate outreach to targeted populations, especially those previously underserved. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an increased integration of Library of Congress primary sources into K-12 and higher education curricula, improved student engagement and learning outcomes in literacy and critical thinking, and expanded reach to diverse educational communities. Successful proposals are expected to demonstrate solutions that address specific educational needs of recipient populations, grounded in standard practice, documented experience, or research. The Library's strategic priorities, as reflected in its 2019-23 and 2024-2028 plans, and the TPS program's theory of change are centered on the belief that by equipping educators with high-quality, primary-source-based instructional materials and professional development, a more literate, critically thinking, and engaged populace will emerge, capable of conducting original research and connecting more deeply with historical and cultural resources.

The 2024-25 Physical and Digital Infrastructure Security Grant Program for Health Care Practitioners, offered by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), aims to enhance physical facility and digital security for healthcare practitioners. This initiative aligns with a broader mission to safeguard healthcare services, particularly those related to abortion and reproductive health, which may be vulnerable to violence and vandalism. The program's core purpose is to mitigate security risks, ensuring uninterrupted and safe access to essential healthcare services for communities across California. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are currently licensed healthcare practitioners located in California who provide abortion-related services (or referrals) and reproductive health care services. This includes medical doctors, osteopathic doctors, licensed midwives, certified nurse-midwives, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, licensed vocational nurses, and physician assistants. A key impact goal is to create a more secure environment for these practitioners and their patients, thereby preserving access to critical reproductive health services. The program prioritizes security enhancements to protect against physical and digital threats. Eligible applicants must demonstrate that they provide abortion-related and reproductive health care services and are located in California. Health Care Practitioners who received an award from the FY 2022-23 DP Program are also eligible to reapply. The focus is on proactive measures to prevent violence and vandalism, fostering a safe operational space for healthcare providers. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in the security infrastructure of participating healthcare facilities, both physically and digitally. The program anticipates that enhanced security will reduce incidents of violence and vandalism, leading to improved access to and continuity of abortion-related and reproductive health care services. With a total of $3 million available and individual grants up to $150,000, the program intends to achieve a widespread impact across California. The grant performance period runs from September 1, 2024, through December 31, 2026, allowing for significant improvements in the security landscape for these vital healthcare providers.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to volunteer fire departments, municipalities, and nonprofit EMS organizations in New York State to improve recruitment and retention efforts for emergency service personnel.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to local governments affected by the closure or reduced operation of the Zion Nuclear Plant, aimed at fostering economic development and addressing community impacts through various initiatives.

The Statewide Health Strategies Grant (SHSG) is designed to enhance the health and well-being of North Dakotans by activating the ND State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP). This grant aims to improve health outcomes across the state through collaborative action, innovation, and evidence-based practices. The grant focuses on addressing North Dakota’s health priorities, such as strengthening the healthcare workforce, expanding access to healthcare services, promoting holistic wellness, and building community resilience. Funded by the North Dakota State Legislature, it offers a competitive application process with projects needing to align with at least one SHIP priority. A total of $3 million is available with a maximum award of $400,000 per project. Applications are due by May 20, 2024, and projects must be completed by June 30, 2025.

This program provides funding to nonprofit organizations and small businesses in Michigan to enhance training and education for the clean energy workforce while improving access to support services for participants.

Since 2022, Cal ICH has partnered with California Federally Recognized Tribes and stakeholders to develop the Tribal HHAP Program. In 2024, Cal ICH is continuing and expanding our partnerships with Tribes and stakeholders in strengthening the Tribal HHAP program. Through the integration of feedback from the community’s served, Cal ICH’s goal is to continue culturally responsive programming designed to meet the needs of tribal communities, with funding accessible to all California Federally Recognized Tribes in need.Tribal HHAP is a tribal allocation set-aside from the Homeless Housing Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) program, built specifically for and with California Federally Recognized Tribes.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to municipalities, non-profits, and community boards in New York State for revitalizing areas impacted by brownfields through planning and environmental assessments.

US DOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) provides funding to Washington state for tribal, state, and local governments to sustain and enhance hazardous materials-related emergency preparedness. The funding is specifically targeted to increase effectiveness in safely and efficiently handling hazardous materials accidents and incidents and to encourage a comprehensive approach to emergency training and planning by incorporating the unique challenges of responses to transportation situations. The HMEP grant program was established in 1990 by the Hazardous Materials Transportation Uniform Safety Act. In 1993, PHMSA began issuing grants to assist States, Territories, and Native American Tribes to "develop, improve, and carry out emergency plans" within the National Response System and the Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act of 1986. The HMEP grant program is designed to allow grantees the flexibility to implement training and planning programs that address differing needs for each location based on demographics, emergency response capabilities, commodity flow studies, and hazard analysis. Relevant trainings are found in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 472: Standard for Competence of Responders to Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction Incidents publication and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations found in 29 CFR § 1910.120. Governors in each State, or their counterparts within Territories or Tribes, designate an agency to receive the HMEP grant funds. Agencies submit grant applications to PHMSA annually requesting funds for proposed activities. PHMSA reviews and evaluates applications to make certain the proposed activities support the program mission to ensure the safe transportation of hazmat. If approved, PHMSA offers the agency a Notice of Grant Award (NGA) for acceptance and signature. Once executed, the agency may distribute grant funds in accordance with the planned activities identified in the grant application within the State, Territory, or Tribe to Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs) and first responder organizations.