Texas awards over $7.3 million in grants to strengthen workforce training across the state
Austin, Texas – In a continued push to strengthen the state’s economy and prepare workers for high-demand careers, Governor Greg Abbott announced the awarding of over $7.3 million in Texas Talent Connection grants. The funds will support 22 workforce training and job placement programs across communities in Texas. This round of awards brings the total amount of Texas Talent Connection grants issued since 2015 to over $57 million.
“Texas leads the nation in job creation thanks to the Best Business Climate in America and our skilled, growing workforce,” said Governor Abbott. “To continue to meet workforce demands in an expanding economy, Texas is connecting more Texans to the skills training needed for the better job and bigger paycheck opportunities we provide. Together with our community partners and entrepreneurs, we will build an even stronger Texas workforce of tomorrow.”
These competitive grants aim to support programs that offer innovative education models, skills development, and job placement services—particularly for populations such as “opportunity youth between the ages of 16 and 24 who are not engaged in education or employment.” Funded initiatives cover sectors including healthcare, information technology, construction, manufacturing, culinary arts, transportation, and more.
Diverse Programs Serving Communities Across Texas
Among the recipients is Alliance of Community Assistance Ministries, receiving $350,000 to help individuals in six counties gain credentials in healthcare-related fields. American YouthWorks was also awarded $350,000 to continue its YouthBuild project, offering opportunity youth training and certifications in construction and apprenticeships.
Other programs like Brazosport College’s Opportunity Connect and Community Learning Centers’ Maintenance Technician Training are targeting re-engagement and basic skills development, particularly for youth and veterans. At Houston’s Capital IDEA, another $350,000 will support workforce pathways in nursing and technology across nine counties.
Special attention is being given to fast-track technical skills training. Lamar Institute of Technology will use over $300,000 to train individuals in Southeast Texas in high-demand trades, while Lamar State College Port Arthur continues its clean energy and fair jobs initiative. Additional funding supports IT career accelerators through organizations like Per Scholas, Texas Premier Technology Institute, and Volunteers of America – Houston, each receiving $350,000.
Programs serving rural communities, such as Skillpoint Alliance’s Expanding Rural Community Economic Pathways and Smithville Workforce Training Center’s Culinary Works, are also being supported, addressing regional labor market needs in smaller towns and underserved areas.
Statewide Impact with Local Solutions
From El Paso to Houston and the Rio Grande Valley to the Texas Panhandle, the grants reflect a broad commitment to preparing Texans for employment success. The programs incorporate a mix of classroom training, on-the-job learning, industry-recognized certifications, and strong support services like mentorship and job placement assistance.
The funds stem from Wagner-Peyser 7(b) grants, federal dollars administered by the U.S. Department of Labor and allocated through the Governor’s Office. The Texas Workforce Investment Council oversees strategic planning and evaluation of the state’s workforce system, ensuring investments align with current and future employment trends.
Through this year’s investments, Texas continues to prioritize innovation, local collaboration, and practical outcomes that uplift individuals, strengthen families, and meet the demands of the modern economy. For more details on the Texas Talent Connection grant program, visit gov.texas.gov.
