The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) has announced a new Notice of Grant Opportunity (NGO) aimed at providing funds to organizations that offer career coaching and services to residents aspiring to achieve their career goals.
This grant funding is part of the "Fund My Future" (FMF) program, a pilot initiative designed to help qualified New Jersey residents by providing financial assistance for upskilling and education. Selected organizations will collaborate with participants to develop Individual Employment Plans (IEPs) tailored to specific career development needs. Participants will also be partnered with professional career counselors who can help them navigate the evolving job market.
"This grant creates valuable opportunities for underserved New Jersey residents," said Governor Phil Murphy. "It will ensure that our residents can overcome barriers to meaningful employment and help make New Jersey’s economy fairer for everyone."
Eligible applicants for the grant include non-profit and for-profit entities, government agencies, or higher education institutions. These grantees must work with residents whose household incomes fall below ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) guidelines. Funding will be awarded contingent upon meeting the grant's performance metrics and expenditures.
"Fund My Future allows us to help New Jersey workers who are struggling to stay competitive develop marketable skills today that will grow into their careers of tomorrow," said Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo. "This initiative will serve as a launch pad for individuals who want to take the leap to redefine themselves in the workforce to change the trajectory of their profession and lives."
The FMF program is designed so that grantees pay service providers directly, facilitating financial support for participants. The funds may be used for job training, supportive services, and other expenses that assist in finding meaningful employment.
The Fund My Future program was developed from recommendations made by Governor Murphy’s Future of Work Task Force. It aims to empower participants by helping them secure the supportive services they need for training and sustainable employment pathways.
For more information about Fund My Future and application details, visit the NJDOL grant opportunities page or email OTWS@dol.nj.gov.
