$7.4 million has been allocated to develop New Orleans' sustainable workforce for the future

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s Office of Workforce Development (OWD) issued a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) on Monday, January 8, to develop a “sustainable” workforce for the future.

The city was allocated $7.4 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to fund the workforce development project.

A total of $194 million has been committed to fund what officials call “priority projects” that align with community needs, strengthen the local social safety net, and build a safer and healthier community for the future.

Targeted investment programs include some of the following:

• Providing opportunities and pathways for workforce development for youth and young adults
• Support and promote New Orleans' growing green infrastructure, sustainability, and resilient industries
• Developing and building on New Orleans' rich history of cultural and performing arts
• Support individuals who face barriers to employment, such as transportation, financial literacy, or identification and documentation challenges
• Support current and future teachers to access training and certification
• Improving workers' skills, retraining them and supporting them for the required jobs

OWD Director Sunae Villavaso says the future of the economy depends on a competitive, knowledgeable and highly skilled workforce.

“This NOFA will advance our goal of supporting organizations in developing programs that empower individuals negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic with the skills, certifications, and support needed to embark on family-sustaining wage career paths that enhance their long-term social lives.” “And economic mobility,” Villavaso said.

Officials encourage “innovative and impactful” proposals that will enhance job opportunities for the current and future community.

To apply for the Workforce Development Investment Program, visit the city's website.

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