Announcing Virginia’s
Apprenticeship Pathways
Program For Employers
Expanding Youth Apprenticeship and
Pre-Apprenticeship in the Commonwealth.
Funds Available:
$500,000 for creating and expanding pre-apprenticeship and youth apprenticeship programs
Applications are
now closed.
Employers, are you ready to build your workforce and train the next generation of skilled workers in Virginia? Apply now for your chance to receive up to $40,000 of reimbursement for training-related costs of youth registered apprentice or pre-apprenticeship programs! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to build your business and fuel your future with Virginia Works’ Apprenticeship Pathways Program – apply today!
Check out our FAQs below and be sure to review the application below for more guidance. Want to know more about youth apprenticeship? Clink the link below to explore.
Eligibility
Employers headquartered and operating in the Commonwealth of Virginia in high-demand sectors
Total Funding Available
Employers can receive up to $40,000 in reimbursement for training-related costs of pre-apprenticeship and youth apprenticeship programs.
Application Period
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED
The application period was October 8, 2025 – October 22, 20205 by 5:00 PM
Period of Performance
November 1, 2025, through October 31, 2026
Selection Criteria
Eligible employers will register and complete up to 10 pre-apprentices or youth apprentices. Upon completion, these pre-apprentices or youth apprentices must matriculate into a registered apprenticeship program.
Applications are scored by the quality of their design for their pre-apprenticeship or youth apprenticeship program.
Learn more about setting up a registered apprenticeship program here.
FAQS
When will awards be announced?
We estimate the awards will be announced in early to mid-November.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/15/25
If I am unable to combine my documents due to technical difficulty, can I still submit an application?
Due to the technical difficulty, you may submit the application in separate documents to this email address.
Updated 4:05 PM, 10/22/25
Is there a form for the proposal narrative?
There is no specific form for the proposal narrative. Please follow the narrative elements guidance outlined on the “Request for Proposal” to ensure that you have all included elements.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/22/25
How do we fill in the block WIOA Title I State Set Aside Budget Item? We do not currently utilize any WIOA funds for our program, so would this be $0?
This opportunity is funded by WIOA Title I State set aside budget. Under column two, please identify each budget item that will be requested for reimbursement from the award funded by WIOA Title I State Set Aside Budget. Please enter amounts requested for each item in column three and a description of each item in column four.
Updated 2:05 PM, 10/22/25
I am a job seeker who would like to get involved in these opportunities.
These opportunities are targeted at Employers. If you are a job seeker, please explore some of the following resources:
- Visit/contact your Local Workforce Center for in-person assistance: https://virginiaworks.gov/locations/
- Register with Virginia Workforce Connection: https://vawc.virginia.gov/vosnet/default.aspx
- Find a Job Fair near you: https://virginiaworks.gov/job-fairs/
- Learn about regional and industry specific opportunities: https://virginiahasjobs.com/
- Resources for impacted Federal Workers: https://virginiaworks.gov/resources-for-impacted-federal-workers/
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/22/25
I would like to request an extension to submit the grant application.
No extensions will be provided. Any changes to the grant opportunities will be updated via website.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/22/25
Can I call you about this grant opportunity and the access to WIOA dollars and the disbursement of finds?
Please submit all Questions via email. Q&As will be posted for all applicants to review.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/22/25
What are the key metrics the state will be using to evaluate performance?
Performance will, at minimum, be evaluated by the milestones identified in each individual project plan, and through the achievement of requirements and outcomes identified in the Request for Application.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/22/25
Where can I find a copy of the apprenticeship standards? And information on becoming a related technical training?
Please reach out to your Local Registered Apprenticeship Consultant to explore Registered Apprenticeships.
- Find your Local Registered Apprenticeship Consultant here.
- Submit a referral form here.
- View our FAQs on Registered Apprenticeship here.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/22/25
Who can we connect with to learn more about setting up a Pre-Apprenticeship and if our program will qualify?
If you would like to connect with someone to learn more about setting up a Pre-Apprenticeship, please contact us at GrantApplications@virginiaworks.gov and we will connect you with the proper resources.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/22/25
For the Apprenticeship Pathways for Employers opportunity, would basic hand tools and PPE (personal protective equipment) be an allowable expense?
Yes. The grant funds can support the reimbursement of costs for training related expenditures, such as instructor time /wages and/ or training materials.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/22/25
How can we find out if our curriculum qualifies for Pre-Apprenticeship?
Virginia follows guidelines provided by the Department of Labor, which defines Pre-Apprenticeship as a program or set of strategies designed to prepare individuals for entry into RAP or other employment opportunities.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/21/25
Is there any allowability for admin costs in the budget given the need to manage both financial and performance reporting?
No. There is no allowability for administration costs.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/21/25
What qualifies as “high-demand” jobs to enable our program to qualify?
Please refer to our high-demand occupation dashboard found here.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/21/25
Do I need to fully register my entity on SAM.gov to get a qualifying UEI number?
No. While a UEI number is required to qualify for reimbursement, full registration on SAM.gov is not required for this opportunity.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/20/25
Will apprenticeship participants supported with these funds be required to be tracked in VOS?
Awarded employers will be required to submit Individual level information to Virginia Works as a part of this funding opportunity. Data entry into system of record will be handled by Virginia Works staff.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/20/25
Are participants served through this program required to meet WIOA youth eligibility criteria?
No. WIOA youth eligibility is not a requirement for participating Apprentices.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/20/25
Can the funds be used to pay all or some of the wages of the youth apprentice?
No. Funds awarded may be used to support reimbursement of cost for instructor time/ wages, however, Youth Registered Apprentices must be employed and paid by the employer awardee.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/20/25
What if our pre-apprentices matriculate into an RAP with another organization? Do we still qualify for funding for our pre-apprentices, or would we need to also be the sponsor of the RAP they matriculate to?
The pre-apprentice or Youth Registered Apprentice would need to be matriculate into a Registered Apprenticeship program that is sponsored by the same employer awardee. The intent of this opportunity is to support employers in creating and expanding youth focused Registered Apprenticeship programs that matriculate into Registered Apprenticeships with the same employer.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/20/25
We are a group sponsor and work with employer partners. We will be running our own pre-apprenticeship for youth to funnel into the program. Would we be eligible?
The pre-apprentice or Youth Registered Apprentice would need to be matriculate into a Registered Apprenticeship program that is sponsored by the same employer awardee. The intent of this opportunity is to support employers in creating and expanding youth focused Registered Apprenticeship programs that matriculate into Registered Apprenticeships with the same employer.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/20/25
Are youth apprentices required to get their RTI from high school CTE courses?
Yes. Youth Registered Apprentices are required to get their RTI from CTE courses that correspond to the occupation that they are apprenticing in.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/20/25
Do I need to begin working with my Registered Apprentice before becoming eligible for this opportunity?
No. The Period of Performance for this grant is November 1, 2025, through October 31, 2026. All costs incurred by the award recipient prior to the start date specified in the grant award are incurred at the recipient’s own expense.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/17/25
Is remote work approved for Youth Registered Apprentices?
Applications that include remote work will be considered. All work activities must be in compliance with appropriate youth-related employment regulations and work activities must take place within the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/17/25
I am an individual who is interested in becoming a Registered Apprentice, how can I become involved?
Registered Apprenticeship is employer driven, meaning you must be hired by an employer sponsor before you can be officially registered as an apprentice. You can use our tool here to search for potential Registered Apprenticeship sponsors. If you have further questions, use our tool here to connect with your Registered Apprenticeship Consultant.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/17/25
Who needs to approve the curriculum for my program?
If you would like your in-house curriculum approved, please reach out to your Registered Apprenticeship Consultant (RAC) so they can connect you with our Related Technical Instruction (RTI) Coordinator. You can find your RAC here.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/17/25
What do I need to include in my application?
As defined by the Request for Application, the following elements must be included for your application to be considered:
- Signature Page (a completed signature page will satisfy the Certification and Assurances requirement)
- Narrative Element B1
- Narrative Element B2
- Narrative Element B3
- Narrative Element B4 (budget narrative and line-item budget)
Please refer to the Request for Application for further detail on each required element.
The completed application should be submitted in a single pdf document to grantapplications@virginiaworks.gov.The application must arrive by 5 PM ET on October 22, 2025.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/17/25
How can I find my UEI number?
You may visit SAM.gov to receive a UEI number.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/17/25
Will the government shutdown impact my ability to get a UEI number for this application?
We understand that the current government shutdown may hinder your ability to obtain a UEI number. You are still welcome to submit a proposal, however, please remember that to be eligible for reimbursements, applicants must have a UEI number.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/17/25
I already have a UEI number, do I need to apply for a new one for this opportunity?
An active and existing UEI number may be used for the purposes of this application.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/17/25
What form should the “Certification and Assurances statement” take in my application?
The Certification and Assurances statement can be found on the signature page (page 2) of the Request for Application. Successful completion of the signature page will fulfil the Certification and Assurances requirement.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/17/25
Is there a list of qualifying expenditures and cash?
There is no list of qualifying expenditures and cash. You may reference the Allowable Uses of Funds section found in the Request for Applications for guidance. If there is a more specific question regarding a particular item, please clarify and resubmit the question.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/17/25
Are indirect costs an allowable expense?
No. Indirect costs are not an allowable expense under this funding opportunity.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/16/25
How can I apply to become a Registered Apprenticeship sponsor?
You can learn more about becoming a Registered Apprenticeship sponsor by connecting with your RAC. You can find your RAC here.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/16/25
If the apprenticeship program we propose is longer than a year, will we be eligible for future years?
This opportunity is limited to one year and is not a reoccurring opportunity.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/16/25
What kind of employer is this for? (Am I eligible if I am a for-profit employer?)
This opportunity is for both for-profit and not-for-profit employers.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/16/25
Would our program qualify for Registered Apprenticeship if we utilize in-house RTI or curriculums, such as NCCER’s curriculum?
If you would like your in-house curriculum approved, please reach out to you RAC so they can connect you with our Related Technical Instruction (RTI) provider. You can find your RAC here.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/16/25
Is this available to CTE programs for a school division in Virginia?
A CTE may act as an employer sponsor, however, the Youth Registered Apprentices must be paid employees of the CTE center.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/16/25
Do the Youth Registered Apprentices have to complete the 144 RTI?
Yes. There is a 144 hour RTI minimum per year that they are in the program.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/16/25
Is this for youth only?
This opportunity if focused on net-new Youth Registered Apprentices and Pre-Apprentices with the understanding that they will graduate out and matriculate into Registered Apprenticeship at 18.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/16/25
Can this funding only be used for Youth Registered Apprenticeship, or can it be used for Student Apprenticeships (as defined by the DOE)? Can it be used for Registered Apprenticeship opportunities as well (those over 18 and not in-school)?
Youth Registered Apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeships that matriculate into a Registered Apprenticeship are the targets of this funding opportunity.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/16/25
What is the source of funding for this grant?
The source of funding for this opportunity is WIOA Title I funds that the state receives from the federal government. There is no requirement for a match with this funding opportunity. The period of performance for this opportunity is November 1, 2025 through October 31, 2026.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/16/25
Is it a requirement that the employees who are enrolled in the Youth Registered Apprenticeship/pre-apprenticeship opportunity, and are having their RTI paid for out of the grant, be co-enrolled in a WIOA Title I program?
No, those employees do not have to be co-enrolled in a WIOA Title I program.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/16/25
Can an organization, that is an employer in the Commonwealth of Virginia, apply on behalf of another employer, to receive the grant?
No. The applicant cannot be a third-party entity, the applicant must be the employer that is conducting the required grant activities first-hand.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/15/25
Does the Youth Registered Apprentice have to also be an employee of the company?
Yes. The Youth Registered Apprentice would have to be an employee.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/15/25
Will the employer be required to use the Virginia Workforce Connection to record grant activities and other notes on employees receiving assistance?
Awarded employers will be required to submit Individual level information to Virginia Works as a part of this funding opportunity. Data entry into the Virginia Workforce Connection, Virginia’s system of record for Title I and Title III funded programs, will be handled by Virginia Works staff.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/15/25
Should we apply if we are aiming to add a Youth Registered Apprenticeship component to existing registered apprenticeship?
Yes, this is an ideal opportunity for an employer who would like to add a Youth Registered Apprenticeship to their existing program.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/15/25
We are an employer based outside of Virginia. If our program hires Youth Registered Apprentices who live in Virginia, are we eligible for the grant?
No. Both the employer sponsor and the Youth Registered Apprentice must be based in Virginia.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/15/25
I am already a Registered Apprenticeship sponsor, am I eligible for this grant with the Registered Apprentices that I currently sponsor?
Only net-new programs are eligible for this grant. Should you already have a program, you may add a Youth Registered Apprenticeship that will matriculate into an existing Registered Apprenticeship. If you already have a Youth Registered Apprenticeship, you may add a new Youth Registered Apprenticeship Occupation.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/15/25
Can an employer/organization submit more than one application for different apprenticeship programs?
Yes, employers may submit more than one application.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/15/25
What is Virginia Works’ definition of ‘youth’ in Youth Registered Apprenticeship
For the purposes of this funding opportunity, ‘Youth’ refers to individuals ages 16-17.
Updated 1:00 PM, 10/15/25
How do I register for funding?
Click the APPLY HERE button above.
Can I use this funding to support training for individuals already enrolled in my youth apprenticeship program?
No, this funding is focused on supporting new apprentices.
How do I confirm my registration/application?
All questions about the application process can be sent to Virgina Works at grantapplications@virginiaworks.gov
Is there a cap on funds?
Yes. Each approved employer may receive up to $40,000 in reimbursed costs.
How do I learn about Registered Apprenticeship Programs?
Check out our page on Registered Apprenticeships here. Also, check out this instructional video and more helpful resources on our YouTube Channel.
View a recording of our Q&A session from October 14th, 2025.
Find it on our YouTube channel here.
Virginia Works is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Department of Workforce Development and Advancement | Virginia Works is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) – Employment and Training Administration (ETA) through the use of Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) (Award FAIN #24A55AT000085, 24A55AW000090, 24A55AY000108, 25A55AT000120, 25A55AW000121, 25A55AY000162) totaling $34,582,877. The dollar amount of Federal funds for this project equal $ 500,000, which constitutes 100 percent of the project cost. Zero costs and zero percent of this project were financed by non-governmental source.
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