Jobs for the Future launches $2M apprentice fund with support from Google.org

Jobs for the Future (JFF), a nationwide nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the U.S. workforce and education systems, has launched the National Apprentice Fund (NAF). This new $2 million initiative aims to provide financial support to apprentices in Registered Apprenticeship programs. Supported by Google.org, the philanthropic arm of Google, the fund will assist 750 apprentices by offering each a one-time award of $2,800.

Maria Flynn, president & CEO of Jobs for the Future, stated, "Jobs for the Future is honored to receive support from Google.org to help make apprenticeships more accessible to hundreds of young people. At a time of increasing demand for high-quality pathways to jobs with opportunities for advancement, apprenticeships are a valuable solution." Flynn highlighted the need to address financial pressures and other challenges to improve completion rates.

Research indicates that financial barriers are a key reason many apprentices fail to complete their programs. By reducing financial stress, the National Apprentice Fund aims to strengthen the U.S. workforce. Nina Ong, Apprenticeships Lead at Google.org, expressed Google’s continued support: "Google.org is committed to expanding economic opportunity for everyone. We’re proud to continue our longstanding support of JFF through the launch of the National Apprentice Fund."

The fund will focus on apprentices in growing sectors like healthcare, technology, education, and advanced manufacturing. It will help cover costs for tools, equipment, transportation, childcare, housing, and other essentials needed to complete training. As part of the initiative, JFF will host a national launch event and information session on National Apprenticeship Day, April 30, 2025.

Many sectors continue to struggle with filling job positions, partly due to a gap between education/training systems and labor market needs. With student loan debt high, apprenticeships offer a viable solution by combining paid on-the-job training with classroom learning. Vinz Koller, vice president of JFF’s Center for Apprenticeship and Work-Based Learning, commented, "What’s remarkable about apprenticeships is how adaptable they are to the ever-evolving workplace."

Those interested in applying to the National Apprentice Fund or joining JFF’s information session can visit www.jff.org/NAF.

JFF's mission is to drive economic success for people, businesses, and communities through transforming U.S. education and workforce systems.