Funding opportunities to meet workforce development needs and support economic development in distressed communities are highlighted in the February 2021 edition of RWFI E-Note Monthly.

Application deadlines for many of these programs are approaching quickly. Important announcements in this edition of RWFI E-Note Monthly include:

• The U.S. Economic Development Agency will fund programs that foster job creation and attract private investment in economically distressed areas. Grants and cooperative agreements are designed to leverage existing regional assets and support the implementation of economic development strategies that advance new ideas and creative approaches.

• Applications are due in March and this spring to apply for funding offered by various federal agencies. These opportunities include programs to educate and recruit aviation technical workers, develop career opportunities in the drinking water and wastewater utility sector, and support the competitiveness of the nation’s manufacturers.

• Funding is available to diversify the nation’s science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) workforce by increasing the number of STEM baccalaureate and graduate degrees awarded to populations historically underrepresented in these disciplines.

The newsletter also provides updates on programs and activities undertaken by NETL to develop a skilled workforce to support advanced manufacturing and other emerging industries. These activities include the use of microwave technology and advanced computing capabilities to explore a wide variety of solutions to America’s current energy challenges.