Virginia Governor Glenn Younkin has announced this years’ workforce development opportunity grant winners. Nearly $2.3 million has been awarded to facilitate 22 projects throughout the commonwealth.
“In order to keep Virginia competitive for future economic growth, we must continue to invest in results-oriented programs that boost our workforce readiness,” said Governor Youngkin, in a written statement.
The programs are designed to help disadvantaged youth remove barriers of entry for when seeking meaningful employment.
“As we continue to transform how Virginia delivers workforce development programs, grants like these provide much needed resources to programs that positively impact the lives of Virginians across the Commonwealth,” said Secretary of Labor Bryan Slater in the same statement.
With these grants, recipients will focus on boosting outreach and education for disadvantaged youth and help to provide technical and soft skill training. Program funds will also assist in creating work-based learning opportunities, such as internships and apprenticeships.
The award announcement reads:
“Workforce Development Grant Recipients Governor’s WIOA Title I State Reserve Funds Youth Outreach and Marketing:
The intent of this project is to develop and implement outreach programs that engage and inspire high school students to pursue education, training, and careers in the skilled trades. Outreach strategies must educate parents, students, and guidance counselors on the benefits of skilled trades.”
A full list of grant recipients and program focus areas can be found on the Virginia Career Works website HERE.
“Whether it is exploring career opportunities with high school students or providing technical training to adults, these programs will help create pathways to successful careers for hard-working Virginians,” said Slater.
Each year, the Governor of Virginia has discretion over a portion of funds that may be distributed to projects, based on a competitive grant process.
The grants were awarded through an open bid process using funds from federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Title 1 funds. Under the ACT, Title I funds are available to states for the development and support of programs that provide job search, education, and training activities for adult, youth, and dislocated workers seeking to gain or improve their employment prospects.
For any questions regarding current and future workforce development grant opportunities, please contact the Secretary of Labor’s office at workforce@governor.virginia.gov.
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