Workforce Financial Aid
Forecasted
Workforce Financial Aid supports Virginia tobacco-region residents with financial aid for workforce credentials and post-secondary training that prepare them for in-demand careers with regional employers.
Funder: Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission
Due Dates (Anticipated): April 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $1,612,000 allocated for 2026–27; institutional request caps apply; awards typically cover one academic year
Summary: Supports financial aid for tobacco-region residents pursuing workforce credentials and post-secondary training for in-demand careers.
Key Information: Institutions apply on behalf of students; grantees must provide at least dollar-for-dollar matching funds.
Description
Workforce Financial Aid (WFA) is part of the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission’s Education Grant Program. Funding is provided through community colleges, higher education centers in Southern and Southwest Virginia, and New College Institute. It removes financial barriers for permanent tobacco-region residents seeking nationally recognized workforce and post-secondary credentials required for employment in in-demand careers with regional employers.
The program’s highest priority is short-term, non-credit workforce certificates approved by the Virginia Community College System under FastForward. Subsequent priorities include non-G3 eligible programs in STEM-H and advanced manufacturing, G3 eligible programs in those fields, and Commission-approved high-demand occupations. The 2026–27 guidelines also provide categories for dual enrollment in information technology and advanced manufacturing, and qualifying credential testing fees.
