North Country Regional Economic Development Council

Under New York’s FAST NY Shovel-Ready Grant Program, Empire State Development will provide up to $200 million in grants to prepare and develop sites statewide to jumpstart New York’s shovel-readiness and increase its attractiveness to large employers, including high-tech manufacturing, particularly semiconductor manufacturing, interstate distribution and logistics businesses. The program will help diversify New York State’s economy while propelling new investments for businesses, communities and job creation.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis through the CFA portal.

After ESD receives an Intent to Apply form, applicants will receive an email confirming receipt within 7 calendar days. A determination regarding eligibility to submit the full application will be made within 30 calendar days. Full applications will not be accepted until applicants have received an approved Letter of Intent to Apply from ESD.

New Workforce Development Grant Programs

The multi-year OSWD funding includes $150 million for new grant programs administered by ESD that will support employer-driven, high-skilled workforce training programs. 

• Capital Grant Program will support the capital needs of workforce training providers that seek to enhance or expand their offerings. 
• Pay for Performance Grant Program (“P4P”) will support the operational resource needs of training programs offering industry-recognized credentials, skills, and certificates in high-demand fields. The P4P Grant Program will provide flexible funds through two distinct tracks:
  • Flexible Operating Grants
  • Capacity-Building Awards to workforce trainers for successfully placing trainees in a good job

Round 2 Grant Awards 

• This month, Governor Kathy Hochul announced OSWD’s second round of grant awards, totaling more than $7 million, for 100+ business partner projects that will train nearly 3,000 workers across the state. 
• View awardees and read the Governor’s full press release here.

Round 3 Closing Soon 

• Round three of the OSWD grant program will close on Friday, March 31, 2023, at 11:59 PM.
• Program guidelines, checklists, budget template, FAQ, and all application resources are online here.