Regional Workforce Grants

Passed into law in 2015, the Workforce Initiative Act Regional Workforce Grant Program seeks to create a statewide, comprehensive structure enabling students in Arkansas universities, community colleges and secondary centers to participate in career and technical education programs developed with input from area employers. The General Assembly found that for Arkansas to compete with an aggressive and effective 21 century economic development strategy, we must start by properly evaluating and addressing the workforce education needs of our state. The proper coordination of secondary and post- secondary education, including career and technical programs, is essential for creating a successful economic climate in Arkansas. Additionally, preparing and encouraging Arkansans to pursue high-demand jobs, including but not limited to, those stemming from industry recognized credentials, career and technical certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor's degrees is essential to building a skilled and employment-ready workforce. Programs offering short-term career and technical training, as well as, those producing Certificates of Proficiency, Technical Certificates, Associate of Applied Science, or similar degrees, and Bachelor of Applied Science, or similar degrees, are critical to the success of Arkansas’ economic development.

Below you will find documents pertaining to the Regional Workforce Grants:

Grant Resources:

• Regional Workforce Grant Guidelines
• Act 1131 of 2015
• Local Workforce Development Regions Map
• Quote Template
• Reimbursement Request Guidelines
• Invoice Template

Next Grant Cycle:

• Applications Released - TBD
• Application Submission Deadline - TBD
• Awards Announced - TBD