Today, Governor Glenn Youngkin announced the allocation of over $1 million in grants aimed at workforce development in Virginia. The funding is part of the “Facilitating Career Pivots into High-Demand Occupations” and “Investing in Workforce Development Innovation for the Future of the Commonwealth” initiatives. These are supported by the Governor’s set-aside Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) Title I funds and administered by Virginia Works.
Governor Youngkin emphasized the importance of these grants, stating, “Virginia has jobs, and each of these proposals improves opportunities for jobseekers in the Commonwealth.” He highlighted efforts to upskill workers in underserved communities, expand work-based learning opportunities, provide executive coaching to skilled job seekers, and increase job placements in critical industries such as manufacturing and maritime.
Several organizations received grants of up to $150,000. Among them are the Alexandria/Arlington Regional Workforce Council, Hampton Roads Workforce Council, Virginia Career Works Northern, and Capital Area Workforce Development Board. These funds will support activities like executive coaching services, innovative cohort-based upskilling programs, career transitions for those affected by federal staff reductions, and expanding work-based learning opportunities.
Additionally, other organizations received similar grants under the “Investing in Workforce Development Innovation for the Future of the Commonwealth” initiative. This includes partnerships with community colleges and local employers to enhance apprenticeship programs and job placements in high-demand sectors.
Virginia Works will oversee these grants to ensure they meet performance standards. More information about their services can be found on their website.
