Announcing Virginia Works’ HIRED Apprenticeship Fund! Are you interested in creating new Registered Apprenticeship rograms or scaling already established programs? If so, you can apply here for funds that will cover training and other related expenses for up to two net new apprentices.
The HIRED Apprenticeship Fund incentivizes employers like you to start or expand Registered Apprenticeship in the teacher education, early childhood education, clean energy, care economy, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and repair and maintenance. Funds can be used for training and education costs as well as to supplement supportive services (transportation, childcare, uniforms, etc.) for new apprentices. More details on allowable costs are included in the FAQs below.
Registered Apprenticeship is a proven model — creating strong talent pipelines, retaining talent, fostering loyalty and innovation. It is the ultimate “earn while you learn” model, combining two key components — on-the-job training and classroom learning. Registered Apprenticeship provides a structured program tailored to meet the specific needs of your industry, while providing each apprentice with a nationally recognized credential upon completion of the program.
Eligibility
Employers in these high-demand industry sectors: Teacher Education, Early Childhood Education, Clean Energy, Care Economy, Healthcare, Advanced Manufacturing, Repair and Maintenance.
Total Funds
$283,000
Funds Available
$4000 for RA Training and $2000 for Supportive Services (per apprentice; 2 apprentice maximum per applicant)
Application Open
February 18, 2025
Application Due
March 17, 2025, by 11:59 pm
Award Date
April 1, 2025
Reimbursement Period
June 30, 2025
Eligible Use of Funds
Infrastructure costs for Registered Apprenticeship Program creation and enhancement, Registered Apprenticeship Training, Supportive Services to include transportation, uniforms, tools, and related equipment; child or dependent care; pre-apprenticeship training, and other services.
Selection Criteria
Leadership commitment, Mentorship commitment, Industry need, and number of committed new Registered Apprentices.
Reporting Requirements
Apprenticeship Program must either be Registered or starting the Registration Process to submit a “minimum standards work process” document detailing RAP training plan.
FAQS
How do I register/apply for the HIRED fund?
Click the button to complete the HIRED Apprenticeship Fund Application.
How do I confirm my registration/application?
All questions about the HIRED Apprenticeship Fund and your application can be sent to Virgina Work’s Registered Apprenticeship Team at: Michael.Alley@virginiaworks.gov
Do participants in the RAPs/pre-apprenticeship RAPs need to be employed?
No, but they should be on a pathway to employment.
Are matching funds required?
Matching funds are not required.
Is there a cap on funds?
Yes. For this first round of the HIRED Apprenticeship Fund, we are only accepting 2 RAs per applicant.
If successful, how will funds be disbursed?
Funds will be disbursed on a reimbursement basis.
What is the reimbursement process?
Submit the Reimbursement Request Form found HERE.
How do I create a Registered Apprenticeship Program?
For questions about Registered Apprenticeship Programs, contact your local Registered Apprenticeship Program Consultant, found here: https://doli.virginia.gov/apprenticeship-consultants/
Please email all questions about the HIRED Apprenticeship Fund to: HIREDfund@virginiaworks.gov
Virginia Works recognizes the invaluable contributions of Registered Apprenticeship in shaping a skilled workforce and thanks the US Department of Labor. This HIRED Apprenticeship Fund is funded by a State Apprenticeship Expansion Formula (SAEF) grant award totaling $1.136 million (100%) from the US Department of Labor with $0.00 (0%) financed from non-federal sources.
We are committed to fostering partnerships that drive innovation and job creation.