The purpose of this program is to support an apprenticeship system that will meet the country’s particular economic, industry, and workforce needs. The program will support American Apprenticeships, also known as Registered Apprenticeships, which are innovative work-based learning and post secondary earn-and-learn models that meet national standards for registration with the U.S. Department of Labor or federally recognized state apprenticeship agencies. Participating apprentices will be hired and earn a wage upon registration, and will receive progressive wages commensurate with their skill attainment in the training program, and a nationally recognized certificate upon completion. Eligible apprenticeship participants are individuals who are at least 18 years old, or who are at least 16 years old and not currently enrolled in high school. This funding opportunity is intended to support dynamic and sustainable public-private partnerships that will expand apprenticeships in high-growth occupations and industries, for which employers are currently using H1-B visas to hire foreign workers, including information technology, advanced manufacturing, business services, and health care. The program also seek to create career pathways that are aligned with post secondary educational opportunities, particularly for populations that are under-represented in apprenticeships, including: women, young men and women of color, people with disabilities, low-skilled populations and veterans and transitioning service members.

Eligible applicants are consortia consisting at least of one private-sector entity and one public-sector entity, as defined in the NOFA, as primary partners. Projects must also include at least three employer partners.