Raleigh, N.C. is currently at the forefront of expanding educational opportunities, as Governor Josh Stein and the NCWorks Commission have unveiled a new initiative to enhance workforce training. The introduction of the Workforce Pell grant program aims to broaden access to federal financial aid for students engaged in short-term workforce training, potentially transforming the state’s economic landscape.
Governor Josh Stein emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “North Carolina is attracting jobs and investment at a record pace, and Workforce Pell will help ensure our workforce is ready to seize those opportunities.” This program seeks to provide financial support to students pursuing workforce training, ultimately fostering economic growth within the state.
Workforce Pell extends Pell Grant eligibility to students enrolled in specific short-term workforce training programs at accredited institutions. After the NCWorks Commission adopted a state-level policy for program approval in May, the U.S. Department of Education released final regulations for the program, set to commence in July 2026.
Applying For Workforce Pell Approval
Institutions aiming to participate must assess their programs against federal Workforce Pell standards. Eligible programs should last between eight and 15 weeks, align with high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand sectors, and contribute to academic credit for a certificate or degree.
For additional details on Workforce Pell eligibility and the state approval process, visit the North Carolina Department of Commerce website at commerce.nc.gov/workforce-pell.
Applications can be submitted through the Eligible Training Provider (ETP) portal at nc.works/ETPL, along with any supplemental information required for Workforce Pell approval.
The NCWorks Commission will evaluate applications on a quarterly basis. Once state approval is granted, institutions can submit their programs to the U.S. Department of Education for federal approval.
N.C. Department of Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley, co-chair of the Governor’s Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships, noted, “One of the Governor’s Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships’ key priorities is expanding pathways to the credentials and skills that lead to good jobs. Workforce Pell is an important new tool that will help more North Carolinians access high-value training while helping employers meet their workforce needs.”
Governor Stein has appointed the NCWorks Commission to oversee Workforce Pell’s implementation. His 2026-2027 budget proposal includes an investment of over $144,000 to establish a Workforce Pell Director within the N.C. Department of Commerce, contingent on approval from the North Carolina General Assembly. This role will facilitate program approval processes and collaborate with educational and workforce partners to expand access to approved short-term training programs.
The Governor’s Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships, an advisory group within the NCWorks Commission, helped develop the state’s Workforce Pell policy. This council comprises representatives from key stakeholders, such as the N.C. Department of Commerce, North Carolina Community College System, University of North Carolina System, and North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities.
Governor Stein continues to prioritize workforce development in North Carolina. In December, the Governor’s Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships released a report offering strategies to enhance workforce development and job access, including the implementation of Workforce Pell. The initiative also supports the First in Opportunity Strategic Economic Development Plan, aiming to build a resilient workforce by increasing access to industry-valued credentials.
Since taking office in January 2025, Governor Stein has announced over 42,000 new jobs and more than $29 billion in new investments in North Carolina. As of January 2026, Site Selection Magazine has ranked North Carolina as the Top State for Workforce Development.
The NCWorks Commission is funded by WIOA Title I, fully supported by the Employment and Training Administration of the U.S. Department of Labor, awarding North Carolina a total of $66,329,591.
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