FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Rachel Dumeny
Communications and Outreach Coordinator
Office of the Commissioner
Vermont Department of Labor
Rachel.Dumeny@vermont.gov
(802) 272-4509
Vermont Department of Labor Announces Grant Opportunities
to Support Workforce Development and Youth Engagement
Montpelier, VT – The Vermont Department of Labor (VDOL) is excited to announce two new opportunities for organizations to partner with the Department to support workforce development efforts across the state. The applications for the EmployVT: Youth Career Connector and the Workforce Expansion Program are now open and designed to engage Vermont youth and expand employment pathways for jobseekers. These programs reflect the Department’s ongoing commitment to connecting job seekers and career advancers to promising jobs that exist with Vermont employers.
“These initiatives reflect our priority to strengthen Vermont’s workforce by supporting programs that connect youth to career pathways and help employers create accessible, sustainable job opportunities,” said Michael Harrington, Commissioner of the Vermont Department of Labor. “We encourage organizations, educators, and employers to explore these opportunities and join us in developing Vermont’s next generation of workers.”
The EmployVT: Youth Career Connector is a new summer grant opportunity for local and regional organizations that serve out-of-school youth ages 16–24 who face barriers to employment like limited work experience, low income, or other factors that limit access to economic opportunity. Formerly named the Summer Youth Employment Program, this program provides paid work experience, job readiness training, and supportive services, equipping participants with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the workforce.
Application Deadline: May 9, 2025, by 5:00pm
Maximum Award: Up to $75,000
Number of Available Partnerships: Approximately ten (10)
This program is funded by the U.S Department of Labor under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
The Workforce Expansion Program is a two-year pilot program aimed at helping people find employment and filling vacancies for employers. In partnership with regional economic and workforce development organizations, the Department will support communities and their employers by co-developing local workforce strategies, promoting training programs, and connecting with job seekers in the area. Awardees of this grant will have a dedicated Workforce Expansion Specialist, funded by the Vermont Department of Labor, placed in their community for up to 24 months. The Workforce Expansion Specialist will coordinate partnerships, support planning, connect resources, collect data, and navigate VDOL services locally.
Application Deadline: May 12, 2025, by 12:00pm (Noon)
Number of Available Partnerships: Up to three (3)
Both programs are open for applications now. To learn more and apply at: labor.vermont.gov/grants.
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