Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Grant Program
Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Grant Program supports nonprofits working with manufacturers on training and career awareness to prepare people for entry-level jobs and build Pennsylvania’s workforce.
Funder: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
Due Dates: Rolling (Applications, while funds remain) | July 31, 2027 (Annual activity report)
Funding Amounts: Up to $200,000; awareness-program awards capped at $200,000, $100,000, then $50,000; projects up to 24 months
Summary: Supports nonprofit-led manufacturing workforce training and career awareness projects developed with Pennsylvania manufacturers.
Key Information: Reimbursement-based funding requires commitment letters from two local manufacturers, the regional Industrial Resource Center, and the local Workforce Development Board or CareerLink.
Description
The Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Grant Program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). It supports two tracks: short-term work-readiness training leading to entry-level job placement, and activities increasing awareness of Pennsylvania manufacturing careers. Projects collaborate with local manufacturers to address skills missing among applicants for current or anticipated openings, engage youth and individuals facing employment barriers, and strengthen local or regional manufacturing capacity.
The program emphasizes populations facing barriers to employment as defined by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). It does not duplicate incumbent-worker training programs such as WEDnetPA or Industry Partnerships. Competitive consideration favors projects offering matching contributions and a clear plan for long-term sustainability.
