Department of Labor & Workforce Development

What Employers Need to Know - Workforce Pell Grants in New Jersey

employer holding binder outside office building

Workforce Pell is a new federal program that extends Pell Grant funding to students enrolled in high-quality, short-term job training programs. Workforce Pell means a stronger pipeline of skilled candidates for employers in critical industries — from advanced manufacturing and transportation to life sciences and technology.

Workforce Pell presents an opportunity to better align education and workforce strategies by expanding access to high-quality training that meets the needs of employers and their evolving workforce needs.

Workforce Pell Grants represent a strategic opportunity for employers to invest in workforce development while leveraging federal funding to upskill employees efficiently and cost-effectively.

Workforce Pell benefits employers in critical ways:

Reduced training costs: Pell Grants cover tuition for eligible employees, lowering employer costs in upskilling for new and incumbent workers.
Rapid workforce development: Employees can gain targeted skills in as little as 8 weeks.
Stronger talent pipeline: Employers gain access to workers trained in high-demand skills and occupations aligned with New Jersey’s local labor market needs. Programs must have a track record of success and train for in-demand occupations.
Designed to meet employer’s needs: Engagement with employers is part of the grant program’s design and required under the law. Quality programs reflect employer involvement in program design, curriculum alignment, and validation of skills.

Workforce Pell Grants allow employers to partner with accredited institutions to provide short-term, high-quality training programs that prepare workers for in-demand jobs. Employers can play a critical role in Workforce Pell by:

Collaborating with educational institutions like local colleges and technical schools to ensure programs align with industry needs, standards, and state workforce priorities
Providing input on curriculum and skills requirements to ensure graduates are job-ready for in-demand occupations
Partnering with state agencies and workforce development boards to validate that programs meet local labor market demands
Supporting apprenticeships or hands-on training components that increase employability and practical experience
Encouraging employees to apply for Workforce Pell Grants to cover training program costs