The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce is now accepting applications for apprenticeship funding through its West Slope Works initiative, providing local employers with direct financial support to expand and strengthen Registered Apprenticeship Programs.

Eligible businesses, including existing Registered Apprenticeship Program sponsors and employers, can apply for funding on a first-come, first-served basis. The maximum reimbursement available is $4,750 per program, based on eligible expenses and funding availability. Funds can be used to support mentor or journey worker wages, instruction costs and supplies, and other training or educator-related expenses.

This opportunity is made possible through a $99,994 Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediary Grant awarded to the Grand Junction Chamber by the Office of the Future of Work at the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. The chamber is one of six organizations in Colorado selected as a recognized Intermediary for Industry.

In addition to financial support, the chamber will provide technical assistance to help employers launch new apprenticeship programs or enhance existing ones. Outreach efforts will also expand to better serve rural communities and diverse populations, increasing access to career pathways in high-demand industries such as health care, construction, advanced manufacturing and information technology.

The funding runs through the end of 2026. To learn more, visit gjchamber.org/westslopeworks.