Last week, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved Phase 2 of the New Jersey Green Workforce Training Grant Challenge. The new $4 million grant program is designed to prepare New Jersey residents for jobs in the green economy, with a focus on supporting overburdened communities in the state.
“Throughout the Murphy administration, the NJEDA has made major investments to support our clean energy future, helping build a stronger economy for the next generation,” said NJEDA Acting Chief Executive Officer Mary Maples. “The Green Workforce Training Grant Challenge is helping expand access to critical workforce development initiatives, ensuring New Jersey residents, particularly those in overburdened communities, are at the forefront for careers in the growing green economy.”
Applicants for this competitive grant will be required to submit proposals outlining their strategies for developing and implementing workforce training programs aimed at expanding employment opportunities within green industries. Grants ranging from $500,000 to $800,000 can be used for planning, outreach, construction, and running training programs focused on sectors such as solar energy and electric vehicles.
Phase 1 of this initiative was first approved by the NJEDA Board in April 2024 under the guidance of the New Jersey Council on the Green Economy’s BRIDGE initiative. Four organizations received a total of $4.3 million in grants during that phase. The second phase is funded through a Memorandum of Understanding between NJEDA and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
Eligible applicants include community-based organizations, workforce training groups, labor unions, technical high schools, county colleges, non-profits, regional workforce boards and private companies. Each application must involve at least one community-based organization serving an overburdened community either as lead or partner.
Proposals should detail plans to deliver industry-recognized credentials and connect participants with job opportunities in green fields. Outreach efforts must aim for diverse participation from overburdened communities. The program will prioritize applications that link trainees directly with near-term job prospects.
Information about eligibility requirements and formal applications will be available at www.njeda.gov.
The NJEDA supports businesses and economic initiatives through various investment tools including low-interest financing options according to its official site. The authority also works toward promoting diversity and inclusion while fostering equitable access as detailed on its website. Its mission includes promoting job creation and enhancing communities across New Jersey as described on its official website.
