The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is awarding nearly $10 million through the new Texas Industry Recognized Apprenticeship (TIRA) grant program to eligible private-sector Texas employers.
As a new Texas-funded apprenticeships initiative, the TIRA grant program highlights TWC’s continued commitment to increasing the number of skilled workers throughout the state. Unlike the Registered Apprenticeships program, which is federally funded and administered by the U.S. Department of Labor, the TIRA grant program draws on state funding to support apprenticeships that meet the immediate needs of Texans.
TWC will accept applications from private-sector employers in 25 target occupations. Employers that apply for TIRA funding must present an apprenticeship training model that meets eligibility criteria. Proposed training models must include full-time paid work combined with classroom-related training (in-person or virtual) that advances the participant to credentialed performance-verified mid-level status in one of the 25 targeted occupations.
To apply, employers must submit a TIRA Application for Funding Form to TIRA@twc.texas.gov. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications by June 1, 2024, to ensure funding consideration for state fiscal year 2024. However, applications may be submitted year-round, pending funding availability. Funds will be awarded to eligible applicants on a firstcome, first-served basis.