TWC Launches New Grant Program Investing In Texas’ Future Workforce

Texas public junior colleges, technical institutions, and nonprofits with experience upskilling Texans for high-demand occupations are encouraged to apply

“The Texas Workforce Commission is expanding its resources to provide training to Texans that aligns with the needs of our employers,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “Initiatives such as the Lone Star Workforce of the Future Fund help prepare Texans for high demand jobs and continued economic growth.”

The launch of the program underscores Texas’ commitment to fostering a diverse workforce, a collaborative effort involving public junior colleges, technical institutions, nonprofit organizations, and the Texas Workforce Commission. The resources offered through the Lone Star Workforce of the Future will not only meet the evolving needs of employers in the state’s growing economy but also foster new workforce skills, a testament to our collective dedication.

“The Lone Star Workforce of the Future Fund is one of the many resources available to equip workers with the skills needed to begin a career in a high-demand occupation,” said Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “Texans have more opportunities than ever to increase their skills and compete for employment in our rapidly growing economy.”

Eligible grantees, including public junior colleges, technical institutions, and nonprofit organizations, can benefit from the substantial financial support provided by the Lone Star Workforce of the Future Fund. Among other qualifications, applicants must demonstrate previous successful, verified training program outcomes. Approved grants will provide up to $7,500 per trainee, with a maximum award of $250,000, a testament to our commitment to their success. The Texas Legislature has appropriated $5 million to the program for the FY 2024-2025 biennium and created an Advisory Board to assist TWC in administering the program.

“The Lone Star Workforce of the Future Fund provides an innovative path to build a talent pipeline for Texas employers,” said Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza. “At the Texas Workforce Commission, we are not only serving today’s workforce but also creating opportunities for economic prosperity for the workforce of tomorrow.”

According to TWC’s Labor Market Information Department, the number of job listings in Texas for middle-skill occupations exceeded one million in 2023. By 2030, a projected total of at least 6.7 million Texans—approximately 43.8% of total employment—will be employed in a middle-skills occupation. Programs like the Lone Star Workforce of the Future Fund will expand TWC’s resources to address employer demand in these middle-skill occupations.

TWC will accept applications for the Lone Star Workforce of the Future Fund until funding is exhausted. Qualifying applicants can learn more and download an application at Lone Star Workforce of the Future Fund—Texas Workforce Commission.