Incumbent Worker Training
The Incumbent Worker Training grant from the North Carolina Department of Commerce supports businesses in upskilling current employees through targeted, science-based training initiatives.
Funder: North Carolina Department of Commerce
Due Dates: Rolling (open application)
Funding Amounts: Up to 20% of local Workforce Development Board formula funds; maximum per grant and business lifetime limits set locally. Employer match required (10%–50% based on size).
Summary: Supports North Carolina businesses to upskill existing employees and retain workforce through targeted training initiatives.
Key Information: Employers must contribute a share of training costs; program is not for new hire training.
Description
The Incumbent Worker Training Program assists North Carolina businesses in enhancing the skills of their current workforce to improve efficiency, adapt to new technologies or processes, and strengthen competitive advantage. By funding training needs assessments, instructional design, and the delivery of skill-building initiatives, the program aims to help employers retain skilled staff, avert layoffs, and create opportunities for employee advancement. The program is administered through local Workforce Development Boards (WDBs), which tailor priorities and award schedules to local industry needs.
