New Jersey Allocated Construction Training Grants

The state has committed $2 million to train women and minority residents for careers in the construction industry.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Jobs — General

Isometric editorial illustration of construction tools including a trowel and plumb bob arranged on a concrete surface. — New Jersey will distribute $2 million in grants to support the NJBUILD program, providing construction skills training for women and minority residents. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should states prioritize funding career training programs for specific demographic groups in the construction trades?

The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development announced $2 million in new grant funding to support the NJBUILD WMIC program. This initiative focuses on providing skills training for women and minority residents to help them secure roles in construction, clean energy, and lead abatement.

Why it matters

The program seeks to lower economic barriers to professional development and prepare participants for registered apprenticeships or long-term employment. By funding this initiative, the state aims to expand workforce readiness for residents in historically underrepresented groups.

The $2 million allocation adds to the more than $24 million in grants distributed by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development since fiscal year 2019. These past initiatives have successfully provided training to more than 2,500 individuals.

The players

New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development

This state agency manages employment services, workforce training programs, and labor standard enforcement for New Jersey.

The details

Eligible applicants for the grants include labor organizations, government bodies, educational institutions, and employers. The program also provides necessary support services to ensure participants can effectively obtain and maintain their new positions in the trades.

The state has awarded $24 million in construction grants since fiscal year 2019.
A virtual technical assistance workshop is scheduled for September 24, 2026, at 10 a.m.
A virtual technical assistance workshop is scheduled for October 6, 2026, at 1 p.m.
Letters of intent must be submitted by noon on October 21, 2026.
Final grant applications are due by noon on October 28, 2026.

Market Landscape

This state funding initiative follows the operational trajectory of the NJBUILD WMIC program to increase participation in building trades. It reflects a broader effort to align labor market supply with the high demand for skilled workers in clean energy and infrastructure.

This program offers residents access to free or supported training in high-demand fields like clean energy and construction. Participants gain direct routes to registered apprenticeships, which can lead to stable, full-time employment opportunities.

The takeaway

Investment in specialized training programs like NJBUILD helps bridge the skills gap for underserved populations in the construction sector. Interested organizations and potential students should prioritize the upcoming October deadlines to secure participation in this funding round.

What happens next

Prospective applicants must attend virtual technical assistance workshops on September 24 or October 6, submit a letter of intent by October 21, and complete their grant application by October 28, 2026.