Governor Moore Announces Nearly $4 Million in EARN Maryland Grants to Upskill Maryland’s Workforce for In-Demand Careers
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore today announced nearly $4 million in awards to help upskill Maryland’s workforce for in-demand careers through the Employment Advancement Right Now (EARN) Maryland program. The awards are expected to support training and credential attainment opportunities for nearly 1,500 Marylanders across key sectors like healthcare, cybersecurity, and the skilled trades.
“At moments like this — as we face economic headwinds from Washington — proven programs like EARN Maryland are essential,” said Gov. Moore. “We must continue to build a thriving economy where workers can grow their skills, families can achieve stability, and businesses can expand with confidence. When Marylanders have the opportunity to succeed, our state prospers.”
The nationally-recognized EARN Maryland program is one of the state’s highest-performing workforce development programs, generating an estimated $18 in economic impact for every $1 invested. The program, administered by the Maryland Department of Labor, has placed more than 3,500 Marylanders into employment and upskilled nearly 5,500 workers under the Moore-Miller Administration. The Maryland Department of Labor anticipates making an additional investment in new partners in early 2026, continuing to strengthen Maryland’s workforce and economy.
“EARN Maryland lifts up workers, strengthens families, and fuels Maryland’s economy,” said Maryland Department of Labor Secretary Portia Wu. “This program empowers Marylanders with training and clear pathways to good-paying careers. At the same time, it equips businesses with the talent they need to innovate, expand, and compete.”
The 19 awardees include community colleges, local workforce development boards, and non-profit organizations who will provide occupational training and supportive services. These grantees are closely partnered with hundreds of employers across the state to ensure that the training they provide remains industry-driven and directly linked to career opportunities.
Awardees will prepare Marylanders for in-demand, high-skill careers across various sectors, including cyber, automotive repair and maintenance, transportation and logistics, biotech, manufacturing, skilled trades, and water and solar industries. Out of today’s $4 million investment, more than $600,000 will support grantees in the healthcare sector, helping them prepare nearly 200 individuals for skilled roles like certified nursing assistants and certified pharmacy technicians.
See the full list of awardees on the Maryland Department of Labor website. For more information about EARN Maryland, visit labor.maryland.gov/earn.
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The Maryland Department of Labor strives to create an equitable and inclusive Maryland where all residents have the opportunities and resources to attain financial stability, reach their career potential, and contribute to their communities; where businesses have access to capital and the skilled workforce they need to succeed; where workplaces are safe and well-regulated; and where the economy is resilient and growing. For updates and information, follow Labor on LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and visit our website.
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