Department of Labor Announces New Apprenticeship Grants

On February 22, the U.S. Department of Labor announced almost $200 million in grants to support the public-private relationships crucial to Registered Apprenticeships. The new funding available includes $95 million in grants for the second round of the Apprenticeship Building America Grant Program, and another $100 million in the second round of State Apprenticeship Expansion Formula Grants.  

The funding opportunities available in the Apprenticeship Building America grant program are intended to strengthen the Registered Apprenticeship system by supporting partnerships that will uplift many industries and individuals, and promote Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) to translate strong training into good jobs, strengthening the workforce. 

Eligible applicants for the Apprenticeship Building America, Round 2 grants include county governments, federally recognized Native American tribal governments, public and state-controlled institutions of higher education, nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status or higher or city or township governments. Grants will range from $1 million to $8 million. 

There is funding for three categories of grants: 

1. Ensuring Equitable RAP Pathways and Partnerships Through Pre-apprenticeship Leading to RAP Enrollment  

1. Creation of Education System-aligned Pre-apprenticeship and RAPs 

1. Registered Apprenticeship Hubs 

Applications close on April 15. To apply and learn more, access the Grants page here: https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/352219  

The funding opportunities available in the State Apprenticeship Expansion Formula, Round 2 (SAEF2) grant program is designed to continue modernizing and strengthening the National Apprenticeship System while accommodating states looking to expand new opportunities. 

Base funding is awarded to all States that apply, with a separate opportunity to apply for additional funding for States looking to expand on innovation. Eligible applicants include state governments, and grants will be awarded up to $6 million.  

Applications will close on April 4. To apply and learn more, access the Grants page here: 

https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/351688