Massachusetts Awards $6 Million in Workforce Grants
Governor Maura Healey announced funding for 34 nonprofit projects aimed at regional skills training and job placement.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Jobs — General
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Governor Maura Healey recently awarded $6 million in Community Workforce Partnerships grants to support 34 projects across 17 Massachusetts communities. These grants provide one year of operating funds to help residents obtain in-demand skills and secure higher-wage employment.
Why it matters
The program helps residents overcome barriers to employment like child care and housing instability while connecting them with necessary credentials. By funding local nonprofits, the state aims to drive economic mobility and fill critical skill gaps in the workforce.
The state distributed $6 million in total funding across 34 projects, with specific awards including $200,000 to The Neighborhood Developers for the Revere Works Coalition and $200,000 to La Colaborativa.
The players
Maura Healey
Maura Healey is the Governor of Massachusetts who oversees state policy and economic development initiatives.
The Neighborhood Developers
The Neighborhood Developers is a nonprofit organization that focuses on community development and economic opportunity in the Boston area.
La Colaborativa
La Colaborativa is a Chelsea-based nonprofit that provides social services, workforce training, and advocacy for immigrant and low-income families.
Executive Office of Economic Development
The Executive Office of Economic Development is the state agency responsible for implementing economic policy and workforce grant programs.
The details
Nonprofits like The Neighborhood Developers and La Colaborativa use these funds to provide skills training, internships, and job placements alongside wraparound support for transportation and childcare. Programs like the Everett ESOL and Employment initiative, which received $140,000, specifically target language and career development for residents.
Timeline
Governor Healey announced the grant awards in October 2026.
Market Landscape
This state funding follows the established framework of the Massachusetts Community Workforce Partnerships program. It reinforces the shift toward community-based workforce development rather than traditional centralized job training models.
Residents in the 17 participating communities may gain access to free vocational training, language classes, and employment support services. Individuals can directly benefit from these programs by acquiring new certifications or finding stable work placements with local employer partners.
The takeaway
These grants prioritize direct, locally-focused support for residents struggling with employment barriers. Job seekers should reach out to regional nonprofit partners to determine if they qualify for the newly funded training programs in their area.
Further reading
Learn more about local labor market initiatives on the Massachusetts Jobs — General section page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Reverejournal.
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