US Department of Labor announces $20M in grants available for out-of-school time organizations to increase access to good jobs for underserved youth

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the availability of up to $20 million in grants for national out-of-school time organizations to expand local work-based learning opportunities, job training and career pathways for underserved youth after school and during the summer.

The Workforce Pathways for Youth demonstration grants will help these organizations partner with state or locally operated affiliate organizations to serve historically marginalized and underserved youth, ages 14 to 21. 

Through partnerships with the workforce system, out-of-school time organizations introduce youth to career-related services, including work-based learning experiences and occupational skills training. They also provide paid employment opportunities that help youth gain foundational skills for success in post-secondary education and employment. The program also encourages partners across the workforce system to provide supportive services, such as transportation and emergency assistance, to address the needs of participating youth.

Authorized under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, the fifth round of Workforce Pathways for Youth grants align with the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to creating opportunities that connect people to good jobs, while supporting the department’s Youth Employment Works Strategy that supports young adults entering the workforce. The department’s Employment and Training Administration will award this fifth round of grants with a focus on building the future mental health workforce in addition to other growing in-demand sectors.

Learn more about Workforce Pathways for Youth program and read about previous grant recipients.

View the Workforce Pathways for Youth grant opportunity and apply.