Workforce Development Initiative

WDI awards small grants to faculty and administrators for curriculum development, economic or labor market research, equipment, internships and scholarships, efforts that build partnerships with employers and unions, and to develop innovative programs that integrate adult literacy with training.  Several workforce development projects that have received seed funding from WDI have become established programs.  Priority for funding is given to projects that leverage funding from other sources, have the direct involvement of employer partners, and create and sustain career pathways.

WDI funding has supported key areas of New York City’s employment sector through a variety of workforce initiatives. For example, in previous years this program has supported the development of new and modified curricula for programs in the fields of healthcare, education, social services, business services, and building services; as well as, industry-sponsored internships with organizations such as, JP Morgan, the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, and other businesses and nonprofit organizations.