NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AWARDS OVER $130,000 IN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT GRANTS TO THE SOUTHERN TIER

The New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) today announced the allocation of $130,000 in workforce development grants to boost skills training and employment opportunities in the Southern Tier. These grants are part of a larger $7.4 million statewide initiative directly supporting businesses, educational institutions, and non-profits in delivering high-quality training programs which focus on enhancing job readiness, closing skills gaps, and promoting career advancement. The awards also focus on programming that will help New Yorkers in disadvantaged communities, particularly the unemployed, underemployed, veterans, low-income residents and others facing employment barriers.    

New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “These grants represent our commitment to strengthening the Southern Tier’s workforce by providing opportunities for skill development and job advancement. By investing in training and education, we are not only supporting individual career growth but also addressing critical workforce needs across the state. This funding will have a profound impact on both our communities and our economy, ensuring that New York remains competitive and prosperous."

The grants will support businesses in upskilling workers, individuals seeking better employment opportunities, and communities striving for economic growth. Workforce training costs vary based on factors such as program duration, training complexity, and supplemental funding.

Summary of Grant Awards in the Southern Tier:

Faculty Student Association of Thompkins Cortland Community College, Inc.
Apprenticeship Expansion Grant (AEG)
Amount: $103,869
Location: Dryden
Purpose and Impact: Expand apprenticeship training for 9 individuals in the trade of Childcare Assistant, increasing middle-skilled jobs in a high-demand occupation by giving apprentices access to schooling and a highly-qualified mentor.

Community Options New York, Inc. (CONY) 
Direct Entry Pre-Apprenticeship (DEPA) 
Amount: $65,000 
Location: Vestal 
Purpose and Impact: Provide pre-apprenticeship training to 10 individuals with disabilities, preparing them for careers as pharmacy technicians. The program partners with CVS Health to address the underemployment of individuals with disabilities while expanding the healthcare workforce.  

The Raymond-Hadley Corporation
Consolidated Funding Application Workforce Development Initiative (CFA WDI) Amount: $50,000
Location: Spencer
Purpose and Impact: Provide training in operations management, leadership, and food safety for 29 employees in the food manufacturing sector, enhancing employee skills for job retention and advancement, supporting growth in the manufacturing industry.

As part of NYSDOL’s ongoing effort to highlight registered apprenticeships, the Department launched a new PSA promoting the benefits of becoming an apprentice. Individuals can find more information about apprenticeship opportunities on our website. While New York State businesses can visit NYSDOL’s dedicated page for grant funding opportunities.