Navigating Workforce Grants: A Guide to Available Opportunities for Gulf Coast Employers

Workforce grants are a cost-effective way to train employees, increase operational efficiency, and drive long-term growth. By leveraging these grants, businesses can gain financial support for customized training programs that bridge skills gaps.

Want to know more about available grant opportunities and how to apply? Here are three of the most utilized workforce grants in the Gulf Coast region.

Skills Development Fund

The Skills Development Fund (SDF) assists with customized technical job training programs. These grants provide an average of $2,000 in training per participant, and a single-business project could receive up to $500,000 depending on the size of the project. At least 50% of the training must be provided by an approved partner college.

SDF Eligibility and Application Process

Any private, for-profit business or non-profit hospital can apply for SDF, but technical training must be at least 75% of the total project. Preference is given to organizations with fewer than 100 employees because there are other funding programs better suited to large organizations. To apply, contact Workforce Solutions. A specialist can help develop the necessary budget, course list, and college partnership.

Texas Industry Partnership

The Texas Industry Partnership (TIP) is a collaborative program between employers, educators, and economic boards to fast-track highly specialized training. The program provides up to $150,000 in funding to develop credentialed programs in high-demand industries that are defined by the Governor’s Office. With TIP, employers must match any grant amount. This is an ideal program for large or well-funded organizations that can contribute half the cost of training.

TIP Eligibility and Application Process

Larger private employers, foundations, and 501(c)(6) organizations most often apply for TIP programs. Adult and youth programs are eligible, and this program usually establishes a fast-track certification program or accelerated degree with a local college. To apply, contact Workforce Solutions and a specialist will coordinate partnership agreements and submit the application.

High Demand Job Training

Unlike the previous grant programs, employers won’t directly apply for the High Demand Job Training (HDJT) program. However, they still benefit from these grants. HDJT helps local economic development corporations (EDCs) leverage tax dollars to expand training programs in sectors facing skills gaps. HDJT matches up to $150,000 in EDC tax funding to create effective job training in high-demand fields.

HDJT Eligibility and Application Process

The Governor’s Office determines which industries qualify for HDJT funding. When an industry is facing a major shortage of qualified workers, EDCs partner with local colleges and employers to develop fast-track education programs using HDJT grant funding.

Rather than apply for funding, employers can partner with a college to hire interns, apprentices, and new graduates. Some internship and apprentice programs provide wage reimbursement and other benefits.

Additional Support

Beyond grant funding, Workforce Solutions offers a range of additional resources to support Gulf Coast employers. These resources include hosting job fairs, helping employers implement customized training programs, and offering comprehensive labor market insights to help employers make informed decisions. These resources help drive success through effective recruiting, training, and rapid response services.

To learn more about workforce grants and employer resources, contact a specialist at talent@wrksolutions.com or 713.688.6890 today.