Nebraska Department of Labor Launches Major Upskilling Grant to Strengthen the Workforce and Modernize Key Industries

The Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) is launching the Good Life, Great Skills initiative, a new statewide grant program that helps Nebraska businesses upskill their workforce, modernize operations, and secure long-term economic growth. Supported by a $4.6 million investment from the U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration, this initiative advances Governor Pillen’s Good Life, Great Careers vision and targets high-demand sectors such as advanced manufacturing, the bioeconomy, industrial information technology, and critical minerals production. Nebraska is one of seven states to recently be awarded USDOL grants to support skills training.

“Nebraska’s employers are adapting quickly to new technologies and production demands, and this grant helps ensure workers can adapt right alongside them,” said Governor Jim Pillen. “High-quality training is one of the tools that leads directly to good jobs and stable careers here in our state.”

How the Grant Works

Grants administered by NDOL will provide eligible Nebraska employers up to $500,000 to train newly hired or incumbent workers. NDOL will reimburse up to 80% of actual training costs, capped at $10,000 per participant, with funding disbursed in two phases: 50% upon training completion and 50% upon verified worker retention. This approach encourages long-term employment outcomes and reduces employer paperwork by leveraging existing business records and streamlined application processes.

“With the Good Life, Great Skills initiative, employers have a real opportunity to shape high-quality training that supports today’s workforce needs and sets us up for future growth,” said Commissioner of Labor Katie Thurber.

Eligibility

Employers operating in Nebraska in advanced manufacturing, industrial IT, bioeconomy, or domestic mineral production activities are eligible to apply. Applicants must identify training needs, collaborate with NDOL on training plans, and commit to reporting outcomes. NDOL will give extra priority to advanced manufacturing employers and those committed to repeated training and curriculum review.

Application Form Upcoming:

An application form will be posted online at dol.nebraska.gov.  Interested employers are encouraged to contact NDOL or their local American Job Center for program details.