Maryland Department of Labor Announces $1M in Funding to Support Healthcare Worker Training
Grants available to increase retention and career pathways for frontline healthcare workers
BALTIMORE, MD (JANUARY 21, 2025) – The Maryland Department of Labor today announced the availability of $1 million in grant funding to support the recruitment, retention, and career pathway development of frontline healthcare professionals. Applications are now being accepted for the Direct Care Workforce Innovation Program and the Career Pathways for Healthcare Workers Program. Proposals are due on April 4, 2025 and grants will begin on June 1, 2025.
“Frontline healthcare workers provide essential services that help our communities stay healthy and safe,” said Maryland Department of Labor Secretary Portia Wu. “These initiatives provide the training, resources, and support needed to develop and retain a strong, highly-skilled healthcare workforce.”
The Direct Care Workforce Innovation Program is designed to increase the number and availability of direct care workers across Maryland through successful recruitment and retention strategies. It was made possible through legislation passed by the Maryland General Assembly in 2021, and will provide a total of $250,000 in grants in FY25. Eligible applicants for these grants include non-profit and labor organizations, direct care employers, and entities with shared labor management oversight. They may request up to $50,000 in matching grants to prepare individuals for roles such as geriatric nursing assistant, home health aide, and nursing assistant. Successful applicants will develop comprehensive plans that provide individualized support to mitigate barriers to employment, such as transportation and childcare costs.
The Career Pathways for Healthcare Workers Program supports costs for continuing education for current frontline healthcare professionals in a variety of roles, providing a total of $750,000 in funding for FY25. Applicants must partner with a Maryland-based Historically Black College or University or community college to deliver training, and they must commit to providing a wage increase to employees who successfully complete training. Grants are capped at $50,000 and applicants must provide a 100% cash match.
The Maryland Department of Labor will host a pre-proposal conference on February 5, 2025 to share information on both opportunities. Visit the websites of the Direct Care Workforce Innovation Program and the Career Pathways for Healthcare Workers Program to learn more.
The Maryland Department of Labor strives to create an equitable and inclusive Maryland where all residents have the opportunities and resources to attain financial stability, reach their career potential, and contribute to their communities; where businesses have access to capital and the skilled workforce they need to succeed; where workplaces are safe and well-regulated; and where the economy is resilient and growing. For updates and information, follow Labor on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, and visit our website.
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