Press Release: Apprenticeship Colorado seeks applications for BuildUp Grants: Round 2

(DENVER) - Apprenticeship Colorado at the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment's (CDLE) Office of the Future of Work (OFW) is seeking applications from Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) in the Building and Construction Trades. The second round of BuildUp grants hopes to increase access for target populations by providing training at no cost to the organization or the apprentice.

Awards range up to $100,000 and prioritize projects that provide training to apprentices at no cost throughout the entirety of their apprenticeship, remove barriers to accessing training to target populations, and embed diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility into their RAP. Funds for the awards originate from HB23-1246 Support In-Demand Career Workforce.

"Investing in reducing apprenticeship costs in the Building and Construction Trades is not just a boost for our infrastructure, but a commitment to equitable opportunity," said Denise Miller, Director of Apprenticeship Colorado. "By expanding access to quality jobs for underrepresented groups, we're fostering economic growth that benefits both businesses and individuals alike."

As of now, Colorado boasts 162 registered apprenticeship programs across 51 diverse occupations within the Building and Construction Trades industry. The BuildUp Grant Program aims to boost awareness, establish effective referral systems, and ultimately recruit new apprentices into these promising careers. Applicants that demonstrate a commitment and plan to embed diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility into the design of the apprenticeship program will be more competitive.

Apprenticeships also benefit workers, who are able to earn while they learn. Given that many people cannot afford to quit working in order to pursue training or education, apprenticeships can also help address inequities in the labor market.

Entities that are eligible to apply for the BuildUp Grants: Round 2 include single or group of organizations with a documented association (Sponsor, Employer, Related Instruction Provider) with an existing Registered Apprenticeship Program in the Building and Construction Trades.

Please visit the Bidnet site containing all grant RFA details to apply. Registration with Bidnet is required.

For more information, there will be a webinar to answer questions on July 30, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. MDT. Questions may be asked (and are encouraged) during this info session, however, to have them formally considered, questions must be submitted in writing after this webinar. All questions submitted in writing will be published on Colorado VSS. Register for the information session here.

Accommodations:

Apprenticeship Colorado values ensuring accessibility for all those who participate in our activities and events. If you need accommodations, please email [email protected] with your request at least 5 business days before the event date.

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