The "Growing Apprenticeships in Nontraditional Sectors (GAINS) Grant Program" by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) aims to expand registered apprenticeship opportunities in sectors that are traditionally less represented in apprenticeship programs. Announced on October 18, 2024, this competitive grant program seeks to provide funding for developing and expanding United States Department of Labor (USDOL) approved Registered Apprenticeship programs in New Jersey. The program focuses on helping employers create pathways to higher-paying careers by developing a skilled workforce through targeted sectoral apprenticeships.

The total funding available for Round 1 of this initiative is $5 million, and the grant period is expected to last for 18 months, from February 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026. The GAINS program offers wage support by reimbursing up to 50% of a new apprentice's wages (with a starting minimum of $17 per hour) for a period not exceeding 52 weeks. The initiative also supports related technical instruction (RTI) costs, including classroom-based learning, and encourages employers to offer apprenticeships in high-growth industries such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing, IT, renewable energy, and financial services, among others.

Eligible applicants include a wide range of entities, such as employers, trade associations, labor organizations, educational institutions, public and private non-profits, workforce intermediaries, and community-based organizations, provided they are based in or have a presence in New Jersey. Applicants are encouraged to focus on diverse populations, such as dislocated workers, women, veterans, persons with disabilities, and other disadvantaged groups, aligning the program’s goals with New Jersey's workforce development needs.

The application process involves submitting a Letter of Intent (LOI) by December 13, 2024, via the NJDOL's online grant system, IGX. Full applications are due by December 20, 2024. NJDOL will offer technical assistance workshops on November 13 and December 4, 2024, to guide applicants through the process. The program encourages participants to co-enroll in other workforce services, such as those offered by local Workforce Development Boards (WDBs), and to use additional funding sources for supportive services like childcare, transportation, and legal assistance for background checks or expungement.

Proposals will be evaluated based on their quality, completeness, and the ability to create long-term apprenticeship programs that support high-need sectors and targeted populations. Strong applications will demonstrate cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and the ability to recruit from disadvantaged communities while aligning with USDOL apprenticeship standards.