Iowa Businesses Can Get Over $20k In Grants For Pre-apprenticeship Programs

Businesses, schools and other organizations now can apply for Qualified Pre-Apprenticeship grants, Iowa Workforce Development said Wednesday.The cost-reinbursement grants, which go up to $20,400, are part of IWD’s effort to grow pre-apprenticeship programs, which are aimed at helping Iowans “to enter and succeed in” registered apprenticeships.“Completing a Registered Apprenticeship not only results in a nationally recognized credential, but it opens up a pathway to a rewarding, life-changing career in a high-demand field,” IWD Director Beth Townsend said in a news release.IWD said priority will go toward health care, agriculture and other industries directly affected by COVID-19 and underrepresented populations.Applications are available at iowagrants.gov and are open until April 9.Comments: (319) 398-8394; john.steppe@thegazette.com