U.S. Boosts Workforce Training with $25 Million in Good Jobs Challenge Funding
WASHINGTON, DC— The U.S. Department of Commerce, led by Secretary Gina Raimondo, has announced a significant expansion in its workforce training initiatives through the Economic Development Administration (EDA). A total of $25 million in funding has been allocated to eight new grantees under the Good Jobs Challenge program. This initiative aims to develop high-quality, locally-driven training programs that equip workers for well-paying employment opportunities. The Good Jobs Challenge, which has already helped over 12,000 Americans secure jobs, now targets a total placement goal of 53,000 across 35 states and one territory.
The latest funding round focuses on crucial and emerging technology sectors, prioritizing assistance to historically underserved communities. Notably, half of the new grantees will concentrate their efforts in rural areas.
“The Good Jobs Challenge underscores the intent and impact of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda by strengthening and empowering America’s workforce, securing their future, and ensuring the United States remains globally competitive,” stated Secretary Raimondo. “Building off its previous success, the Good Jobs Challenge is expanding into more communities across the country with a focus on industries that will define the 21st century economy. These investments will train American workers for industries of the future, empower them with the tools they need to secure good-paying jobs, and lift up regional communities that have too often been overlooked or left behind.”
The Good Jobs Challenge, initiated with funding from the American Rescue Plan, represents a $525 million investment across 40 regions nationwide. This program fosters industry-led partnerships that offer Americans the opportunity to acquire in-demand skills, aligning with employer needs and leading to lucrative job opportunities. The initiative involves a collaboration of employers, labor unions, educational institutions, and community organizations to enhance job training in sectors vital for maintaining America’s competitive edge.
Acting Assistant Secretary of Economic Development Cristina Killingsworth emphasized, “Training a workforce that meets industry demands is a key component to growing and strengthening local and regional economies. The new Good Jobs Challenge awardees will build upon the success of our first-round grantees in putting thousands of Americans to work in industries that make our country stronger, safer, and more prosperous.”
Participants in the Good Jobs Challenge often include individuals most in need of skill enhancement and better wages. The program features a significant representation of Black and Indigenous workers, with Black workers participating at nearly twice their national workforce share and Native American workers at three times their share. Over 40% of participants have held multiple jobs in the past year, earning just a quarter of the median wage for all U.S. workers.
The EDA has selected eight new awardees for this funding round, with specific grant amounts to be determined soon. This expansion will now see the Good Jobs Challenge covering states and territories including Alaska, Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wyoming.
For further details on the Good Jobs Challenge, visit eda.gov.
