Los Angeles, CA — The Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) is launching a new High Road Training Partnerships (HRTP) Fund, a grant program, with over $17 million available to fund innovative, high-quality workforce training models delivered by worker-centered organizations and employers. Applications will open on March 31, 2025. During the application window, technical assistance will be provided, including informational sessions and an application toolkit.
Building on DEO’s existing HRTPs, this grant opportunity is open to workforce organizations developing or expanding worker and industry-informed training programs that serve LA County individuals most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and racial and economic inequities. This initiative not only prepares the workforce for the current job market but also strengthens economic stability in the face of future disruptions, such as the recent windstorm and wildfires.
Eligible partnerships include community-based organizations, organized labor, industry associations, employers, educational institutions, job centers, apprenticeship programs, and industry-informed training providers.
Interested High Road Partnerships are encouraged to begin preparing now by:
- Reviewing existing HRTP models by the CA Workforce Development Board’s framework and essential elements
- Prioritizing high-growth and high-opportunity industries
- Resolving both a worker and employer occupational challenge
- Establishing employer and worker focused partnerships
- Scoping projects for awards up to $1M
“I applaud the launch of this vital High Road Training Partnerships grant program," said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger. "Investing in workforce training ensures that our communities, especially those hit hardest by economic challenges, have access to quality jobs and long-term career growth. This initiative will strengthen Los Angeles County’s economy by preparing workers for in-demand industries while providing critical support to employers. This two-pronged approach is comprehensive, thoughtful, and will greatly benefit our region. I encourage all eligible organizations to take advantage of this opportunity to build a stronger, more resilient workforce.”
“Investing in workforce training and development is critical to building a stronger, more resilient economy for all Angelenos. This new funding will create direct pathways to high-demand, well-paying jobs in industries that are shaping our future. By targeting those hardest hit by the pandemic, this initiative ensures that individuals from underserved communities have the skills and support they need to succeed. With a focus on collaboration between employers, labor organizations, and training providers, we are not just filling jobs -- we’re creating long-term economic stability and opportunity across Los Angeles County,” said Supervisor Hilda Solis.
“Los Angeles County is committed to creating inclusive economic opportunities that empower our residents to thrive. The High Road Training Partnerships program is a critical component of this effort, as it equips our workforce with the skills and resources they need to secure good-paying career pathways in emerging industries. This new funding will help us ensure that those who have been most impacted by economic challenges, like the pandemic and recent wildfires, can build a stable future for themselves and their families,” said Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell.
“HRTPs center worker and employer needs, bolster cross-sector partnerships, deliver high-quality and industry-informed programming, and yield quality jobs and career pathways. We are excited to build on demonstrated success with our American Rescue Plan-funded HRTPs in the creative economy, aerospace, construction, early care and education, and healthcare and offer capital and technical assistance to our community to propose partnerships and programs that meet today’s economic imperatives and unlock future investment,” said Kelly LoBianco, Director of the LA County Department of Economic Opportunity. DEO encourages applicants to start preparing now so they are ready when applications open.
Funded through the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act and Care First Community Investment, this HRTP Fund is part of LA County’s larger HRTP investment, aligning with the CA Workforce Development Board’s high-road workforce development framework. It builds on the County’s commitment to inclusive economic growth. Awards are anticipated by mid-May and all programming must be implemented by June 2026.
Interested parties can sign up for updates via this this interest form. To learn more about the HRTP model and past and current DEO HRTP programs, visit: https://opportunity.lacounty.gov/hrtp/.
