Growing the Clean Energy Workforce – Electric Vehicles (GCEW-EV)

The Growing the Clean Energy Workforce – Electric Vehicles (GCEW-EV) program is administered by the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) through its Office of Just Energy Transition (OJET). This initiative is funded by the New York Power Authority and is part of the state’s broader climate strategy under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. The program is designed to support workforce development aligned with New York’s transition to a clean energy economy by expanding access to training and career pathways in electric vehicle maintenance and related infrastructure. The primary purpose of the program is to fund organizations that will create or expand training or pre-apprenticeship programs in electric vehicle repair and maintenance, EV charging station repair and maintenance, and EV fleet maintenance. The program also supports the provision of wraparound services to ensure participant success. These services may include transportation, childcare, housing assistance, food support, mental health services, and other interventions that reduce barriers to participation. A key requirement is that at least 35 percent of program participants must reside in disadvantaged communities, with a recommended target of 50 percent to account for attrition. Funding under this opportunity totals up to 7 million dollars statewide. Individual award amounts vary based on the size of the applicant organization, ranging from up to 275000 dollars for smaller entities to 500000 dollars for larger organizations, with an additional 100000 dollars available for equipment purchases tied directly to training activities. Funds must be used for allowable costs such as training delivery, curriculum development, equipment, training materials, and participant support services. Certain restrictions apply, including prohibitions on standalone wraparound services, asynchronous training, and training unrelated to EV maintenance. Eligible applicants include a wide range of entities such as for-profit companies, nonprofit organizations, municipalities, educational institutions, and workforce training providers. Applicants must have at least two full-time employees, be located in New York State, and demonstrate experience in workforce training or related services. Participants in the program must be at least 18 years old, with priority given to individuals from disadvantaged communities and populations facing barriers to employment, including veterans, low-income individuals, and formerly incarcerated individuals. Applications are submitted through the New York Statewide Financial System (SFS) and must include a comprehensive set of required attachments such as work plans, cost comparison worksheets, and compliance documentation related to equal opportunity and business participation goals. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and evaluated based on program design, work plan quality, and cost reasonableness. A minimum score threshold is required for funding consideration, and applications may be revised and resubmitted if initially unsuccessful. The application window opened on April 10, 2026, and will remain open until December 3, 2026, at 4:00 PM Eastern Time. Questions may be submitted on a rolling basis until November 20, 2026, with responses provided through the NYSDOL website. Awards are issued continuously as applications are reviewed and approved, subject to funding availability. Contracts may last up to three years, including two years for program implementation and one year for outcome tracking. This program reflects New York State’s commitment to equitable workforce development and clean energy transition goals.

Ensure at least 35 percent DAC participation; clearly justify costs and training outcomes; align program design with evaluation criteria; provide strong work plan metrics and partnerships