NJ: NJEDA Board Approves New Grant Program to Support Workforce Training Center Construction

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved the creation of a $9.7 million grant program to support the construction of workforce training facilities in New Jersey’s Overburdened Communities. The Apprenticeship Training Centers Construction Grant Program aims to support the establishment of facilities that will help enable access to low- or no-cost training and eliminate transportation barriers, preparing local residents for high-paying jobs and creating positive economic benefits for communities.

“Under Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has continued to invest in innovative apprenticeship and workforce development programs, with a particular focus on expanding equity and diversity in a range of career paths,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “This new initiative builds on the NJEDA’s existing efforts to expand workforce development programs across the state, preparing New Jersey residents for good-paying, family-sustaining careers and strengthening efforts to promote equitable economic opportunity.”

The new program will award grants between $500,000 and $6.5 million to sponsors of a Registered Apprenticeship Program as defined by the United States Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship. Applicants will be required to be in and conduct training for the building and construction trades in the funded facility. Grants will cover up to 70 percent of all eligible project costs, and up to 80 percent of eligible project costs in a Government Restricted Municipality. More information on the application process will be available soon on the NJEDA’s website.

An eligible project location must be within an Overburdened Community as defined by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). The NJDEP maintains a list and visualizations of Overburdened Communities throughout the state at https://dep.nj.gov/ej/communities/.

Funding for the Apprenticeship Training Centers Construction Grant Program will be utilized from the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s (NJDOL) Workforce Development Partnership Fund. In February 2024, the NJEDA Board approved an MOU with the NJDOL that permits disbursement from the fund for the NJEDA to create and sustain workforce development programs and projects. Since 2018, New Jersey has invested nearly $100 million in grant funding to support registered apprenticeship programs and has experienced a 138 percent increase in earn-while-you-learn opportunities.

“This grant program amplifies the Murphy Administration's record-setting commitment to apprenticeship, and we are taking decisive steps to ensure every resident has the opportunity to succeed in high-demand trades, fueling both personal advancement and regional progress,” said Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo. "This initiative exemplifies New Jersey's dedication to building an economy where everyone has the chance to thrive, demonstrating that when we empower workers, we uplift entire communities.”