FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Rachel Dumeny
Communications and Outreach Coordinator
Office of the Commissioner
Vermont Department of Labor
(802) 272-4509
Rachel.Dumeny@vermont.gov
Vermont Department of Labor Shares Grant Opportunities Supporting Women in the Workforce
The U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) has announced two funding opportunities: $7 million to support women in the workforce under the Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations (WANTO) Grant Program and $1 million to protect women from gender-based harassment and violence at work, under the Fostering Access, Rights, and Equity (FARE) Grant Program.
“We encourage businesses and community partners to apply for these important grants' opportunities with Department of Labor as a partner,” Jay Ramsey, Director of Workforce Development said. “As part of our efforts to expand diversity within the registered apprenticeship program, it’s important to note that only 15% of apprentices identify as women,” Ramsey added.
The Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations (WANTO) Grant Program aims to increase the participation of women in sectors where they are traditionally underrepresented, including manufacturing, construction, and cybersecurity. Despite comprising nearly half of the U.S. labor force, women represent only about 14 percent of all Registered Apprenticeships, a proven pathway to secure well-paying jobs and ensure a skilled and diverse workforce. The grants are designed to help community-based organizations attract, train, and retain more women in Registered Apprenticeships and nontraditional occupations.
The Fostering Access, Rights, and Equity (FARE) Grant Program seeks to assist survivors and women at high risk for workplace violence and harassment. Workplace violence and harassment disproportionately affect women from underserved and historically marginalized communities, including women of color, LGBTQI+ individuals, women with disabilities, and those affected by persistent poverty and inequality. This funding will support community organizations’ efforts to enhance job quality by addressing harmful workplace norms and gender-based violence and harassment.
Both programs are jointly overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor Women’s Bureau and the Employment and Training Administration. The deadlines to apply are May 28, 2024 (FARE), and June 10, 2024 (WANTO).
Businesses and organizations that are considering submission of a proposal are encouraged to request a letter of support from Vermont Department of Labor’s Workforce Development Division by e-mailing labor.grants@vermont.gov.
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