The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) has announced $1.5 million in available funding through the New Jersey Builder’s Utilization Initiative for Labor Diversity (NJBUILD) Women and Minority Veterans in Construction Trades grant program to support the training of Garden State women and minority veterans in the construction trades.

This grant program provides women and minority veterans with training in preparation for placement in registered apprenticeship programs and/or full-time, long-term employment in the construction industry or building and construction trades occupations. The NJBUILD grant also funds the delivery of quality support services to help with the successful placement and retention of these workers.

The NJBUILD Women and Minority Veterans in Construction Trades Program (WMVIC) seeks to eliminate economic barriers by investing in the skills training and work readiness to connect women veterans and minority veterans to quality career and training opportunities in the building and construction industry. The program seeks to recruit women and minority veterans from the National Guard and Reserve, as well as retired and transitioning active-duty military members.

“The NJBUILD program is a cornerstone of our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce in New Jersey’s construction industry,” said Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo. “By investing in the training and development of New Jersey women and minorities in the construction trades, we are not only creating more equitable job opportunities but also enriching our workforce by ensuring it reflects the diversity of our communities.”

Since FY24, NJDOL has awarded approximately $8.9 million in NJBUILD funding to 19 organizations to support the training of approximately 809 women and minorities in the construction trades.

“Through NJBUILD funding, The BLOC Foundation has been able to open doors of opportunity for women and minority veterans, equipping them with quality training and pathways to meaningful careers in the construction trades,” said Natalie Prisock, Esq., co-founder, The BLOC Foundation. “This investment not only strengthens our workforce but also empowers those who have served our country to build a stronger future for themselves and their communities.”

Funding from this NJBUILD grant announcement will be used to support training in the construction and building trades industry, including clean energy and lead abatement occupations. Occupations within the construction craft, administrative, support or operational occupations are also acceptable. This includes professional titles as well as skilled trades.

Applicants are required to provide quality support services to ensure success for placement into employment.

To view complete details and the full Notice of Grant Opportunity and a list of organizations eligible to apply for the NJBUILD grant as a lead applicant, go to https://www.nj.gov/labor/research-info/grants.shtml and click on the drop-down link.