Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has announced a new Green Jobs Innovation Fund competition to support opportunities for workers to receive job training in green industry sectors and occupations. The Department will award approximately $40 million to between five and eight grantees, with awards ranging from $5 million to $8 million each.

Eligible applicants include national and statewide organizations with local affiliates that have existing career training programs. Each applicant must prove that it will benefit at least six communities per awarded grant.  

“Improving our economy isn’t just about creating jobs – it’s about creating good jobs that build American infrastructure in a sustainable way,” said Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva. “Renewable energy, green building engineering and other related occupations are going to be a critical part of the job market for years to come, and I encourage groups throughout Southern Arizona to consider pursuing these funds to help our local economy.”

The grants are designed to help develop programs that offer green job apprenticeships or job training. Applicants should view the online tutorial “Grant Applications 101:  A Plain English Guide to ETA Competitive Grants” available at http://www.workforce3one.org/page/grants_toolkit and register at http://www.Grants.gov.