The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board has officially approved the launch of Phase 2 of the New Jersey Green Workforce Training Grant Challenge, a $4 million initiative designed to propel New Jersey residents into high-growth “green” careers.
This second phase builds on the momentum of Phase 1, specifically targeting “Overburdened Communities”—areas that have historically faced higher environmental and economic hurdles—to ensure an equitable transition to a clean energy economy.
The program offers competitive grants ranging from $500,000 to $800,000. These funds are intended to help organizations design and launch training programs that provide industry-recognized credentials and direct pathways to employment.
“The Green Workforce Training Grant Challenge is helping expand access to critical workforce development initiatives, ensuring New Jersey residents, particularly those in overburdened communities, are at the forefront for careers in the growing green economy,” NJEDA Acting CEO Mary Maples said.
Building on the success of Phase 1, which distributed $4.3 million across four applicants, Phase 2 continues to focus on specific sectors essential to New Jersey’s climate goals.
Key sectors targeted by the grant include:
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Solar Energy & Weatherization: Improving energy efficiency in residential and commercial buildings.
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Offshore Wind: Training for the specialized manufacturing and maintenance roles in the emerging Atlantic wind corridor.
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Electric Vehicles (EVs): Building the infrastructure and technician workforce for clean transportation.
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Green Infrastructure: Developing sustainable water and land management systems.
To be eligible, applicants must include at least one Community-Based Organization (CBO) that directly serves an overburdened community. This ensures that the training is not only accessible but also culturally and geographically relevant to the people who need it most.
Eligible lead applicants include:
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Labor Unions and Trade Associations
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County Colleges and Technical High Schools
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Non-profits and Workforce Development Boards
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Private-sector companies
Phase 2 is funded through a partnership between the NJEDA and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). The program aligns with the Governor’s Council on the Green Economy’s BRIDGE initiative (Building our Resilient, Inclusive, and Diverse Green Economy).
Beyond technical skills, the program encourages “wraparound supports”—such as childcare, transportation assistance, and career mentorship—to help students from all backgrounds successfully complete their training.
