Grants Available to Support Individuals or Businesses Affected by Pandemic  

DENVER, (Jan. 23, 2024) — The Colorado Community College System (CCCS) has launched the Workforce Resilience Program, a statewide grant initiative that supports rural businesses and individuals who were negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Administered in partnership with the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, the Workforce Resilience Program leverages $750,000 in one-time federal recovery dollars to fund a variety of workforce-related projects, including bolstering employee recruitment and retention. CCCS is currently accepting proposals for grants ranging from $25,000 to $75,000 with a priority deadline of March 1, 2024. 

“We know rural towns were hit hard during the pandemic, and many local and regional companies are still struggling to find qualified talent in its wake,” said Michael Macklin, CCCS associate vice chancellor for academic affairs and workforce development at CCCS. “This program is designed to be a flexible, easy-to-access resource to uplift individuals, businesses, and entire communities.”  

Created by Senate Bill 21-291, the program aims to help rural businesses evolve and grow and individuals to reskill or upskill. Qualifying projects could include designing custom workforce training for employees, providing short-term stipends for workers, or sponsoring training for employees to advance in an organization.

Prospective applicants can submit their intent to apply through the CCCS website. Program managers will review grant applications in March and begin awarding funds in late spring. While applicants may submit proposals after the priority deadline, acceptance will depend on remaining grant funding. 

CCCS is hosting informational webinars for applicants every Tuesday at 10 a.m. To register and find more information on the the Workforce Resilience Program, visit the CCCS website: https://cccs.edu/industry/workforce-resilience-program/  

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About CCCS 

The Colorado Community College System (CCCS) is the state’s largest system of higher education, delivering more than 1,000 programs to over 113,000 students annually through 13 colleges and 35+ locations across Colorado. Our open access mission ensures all Coloradans who aspire to enrich their lives have access to quality higher education opportunities. The System Office provides leadership, advocacy, and support to the colleges under the direction of the State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education (SBCCOE). Join us in changing the way Colorado goes to college. Learn more at www.cccs.edu.