Quad Cities employers, educators and workforce organizations can apply for a new State of Iowa grant to help them create work-based learning opportunities for future workers.
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announced that up to $1.5 million in grant funding now is available to boost programs that provide opportunities for high school students to explore their future careers.
In a news release Wednesday, May 3, the governor said the Statewide Intermediary Work-based Learning Grant program will help students experience one-on-one contact with potential employers and help them make informed decisions about post-secondary education and careers.
The grant funding is open to Iowa educational organizations, community colleges, nonprofit organizations, and local workforce development boards, as well as any other entity with the capacity to provide students with sustained interactions with industry or community professionals in a real worksite environment.
The program’s goal is to encourage the creation and development of a range of work-based learning programs including internships, job shadowing experiences, apprenticeable occupations, or other workplace learning opportunities in targeted industries.
The release said work-based learning programs increase awareness of career opportunities in local communities for students as well as help employers build relationships with potential future employees.
“We understand that by investing in our kids, we are investing in our future,” Ms. Reynolds said. “Work-based learning helps show students that opportunities exist beyond just a four-year degree. By connecting high school students with local businesses for work-based learning opportunities, Iowa is providing students with the best environment for them to succeed.”
Grant recipients may use the funding for expenses related to the successful implementation of a work-based learning program, including staff salary and benefits, transportation, materials and supplies, or other related expenses. Applicants are required to match at least 25% of the grant funds received using public funds, private donations or in-kind contributions.
“Iowa continues to need more workers, and one of the most important steps we can take toward meeting that need is to ensure that students realize they don’t have to leave the state for the kind of careers they want,” Beth Townsend, director of Iowa Workforce Development, said in the release. “These grants will support programs that show students many of the available possibilities.”
For more information on the grant including application documents, visit here. Applications will be accepted on www.IowaGrants.gov through 11:59 a.m., Friday, June 2.
In addition, interested applicants will have an opportunity to ask questions about the program during a webinar scheduled for 10-11 a.m., Thursday, May 11. Register for the webinar here.
