The U.S. Department of Labor awarded $99.3 million in grants to 71 organizations across 31 states, the department announced Dec. 12.
The funding of the YouthBuild Program aims to equip individuals ages 16-24 with the skills and training necessary for high-demand industries while providing pathways to quality careers.
Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training José Javier Rodríguez believes investing in the youth is necessary.
“YouthBuild grants are investments in young people who want to pursue education and receive hands-on training while providing service to neighbors in need,” Rodríguez said.
The grants target young people not currently enrolled in school or the labor market. The funds support pre-apprenticeships, providing education and training in many fields.
Participants split their time between classroom instruction — where they can earn a high school diploma or equivalency degree — and workplace training tailored to their chosen industries.
The program provides significant support services, ensuring success during and after training.
The YouthBuild initiative is overseen by the Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration and supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.

The program follows a pre-apprenticeship model designed to align participants’ training with local infrastructure projects funded by the Biden-Harris administration’s “Investing in America” agenda.
The grants emphasize creating opportunities for disadvantaged youth while addressing the nation’s workforce needs. In addition to technical skills, participants benefit from educational guidance and a 12-month follow-up period to support their transition into the labor market.
“These awards will help ensure that young people, regardless of their background, benefit from the opportunities created by the Biden-Harris administration,” Rodríguez said.
The grants aim to address labor shortages in critical sectors by prioritizing alignment with infrastructure projects while fostering economic growth in underserved communities.
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