U.S. DOL announces $140M in available grants to create high quality jobs and training in underserved communities

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the overall economy continues to rebound from the pandemic, many workers most adversely affected – particularly women, people of color, people with disabilities, lower-wage workers and workers from other historically marginalized communities – continue to face challenges in finding quality jobs.

The U.S. Department of Labor announced today (July 6) that it is making available $140 million in Quality Jobs, Equity, Strategy and Training(QUEST) grants for states to provide jobs and employment training and services for America’s unemployed and underemployed workers.

Administered by the department’s Employment and Training Administration, QUEST National Dislocated Worker grants will support jobs, outreach, training and supportive services for marginalized workers to secure jobs in critical and growing industries, including infrastructure, environment and climate, care economy and other critical industry sectors.

“During this historic economic recovery, the Department of Labor supports the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to provide opportunities for all workers to overcome the employment, economic and health effects of the pandemic,” said Acting Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training Brent Parton. “QUEST grants will help prepare marginalized workers for high-quality jobs that include family-sustaining wages and benefits and offer clear paths for advancement.”

Successful partners will implement projects that help underserved workers develop career and economic resilience through their commitment to one of the following activities:

· Develop or expand strategic partnerships.

· Community and participant outreach.

· Business engagement.

· Employment and training activities.

· Create disaster-relief employment to address the health, employment, social effects of COVID-19.

Learn more about the QUEST National Dislocated Worker Grants and apply.