The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration received 509 applications for its American Rescue Plan Good Jobs Challenge program from communities in all states, territories and the District of Columbia.
The $500 million in funding for the Good Jobs Challenge will build and strengthen workforce systems for America’s workforce to develop in-demand skills that lead to good-paying jobs in high-demand fields, the EDA said in a Feb. 23 news release. It focuses on removing barriers, particularly for those workers hit hardest by the pandemic, including women and people of color.
“The Biden Administration is committed to developing employer-driven partnerships that respond to the talent and training needs of companies across the country while also leading to good-paying jobs for the American people,” Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo said.“The Good Jobs Challenge will connect workforce training programs with industries and businesses to create a pipeline of skilled workers and help remove barriers for Americans to access good-paying jobs through training and wrap-around services."
The Good Jobs Challenge aims to rebuild the American workforce by building regional systems that will ensure the creation of well-paying jobs.
EDA anticipates making approximately 25 to 50 awards. The applicants demonstrate determination in helping underserved groups, and the high interest in the program demonstrates the need for such efforts.
“The applicants represent hundreds of local partnerships dedicated to working together to create new opportunities and pathways towards financial security to lift up American workers with training and support that leads to good-paying jobs,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo.
