Labor Department Invests Millions in Apprenticeship Expansion

The Department of Labor announced on July 13, 2026, that it has awarded over $10 million to five organizations. These grants are designed to incentivize employers to expand registered apprenticeships across various industries. The initiative aims to bolster the skilled workforce by creating more opportunities for on-the-job training and career development.

One of the recipients, the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA), received $3 million. NASWA plans to use these funds to develop a national apprenticeship ambassador network. This network will focus on outreach to employers, particularly small and medium-sized businesses, to encourage their participation in registered apprenticeship programs. The association also intends to create resources and best practices for employers looking to establish or expand their apprenticeship offerings.

Another significant awardee is the National Governors Association (NGA), which received $2.5 million. The NGA will focus on supporting governors in their efforts to promote apprenticeships within their states. This includes providing technical assistance, sharing successful state-level strategies, and fostering collaboration between state governments, educational institutions, and industry partners. Their work aims to align apprenticeship programs with regional workforce needs and economic development goals.

Additional funding was distributed to the Center for American Progress, the National Skills Coalition, and the AFL-CIO. The Center for American Progress received $2 million to research and advocate for policies that support apprenticeship expansion and diversity. The National Skills Coalition was awarded $1.5 million to conduct outreach and build employer coalitions for apprenticeship. The AFL-CIO received $1 million to support the development of registered apprenticeships within labor unions, focusing on expanding access to high-quality, union-backed training programs.