Workforce Equity Programs

MassCEC supports organizations that can plan, develop, and deliver career training programs (or pathways to programs) leading to employment in climate-critical occupational categories and business fields that will serve individuals from Environmental Justice (EJ) and low-income neighborhoods, members of Federally recognized or state acknowledged tribes, fossil fuel workers, or other underrepresented populations in the clean energy sector. Through large-scale, multi-year funding opportunities of up to $1.2 million across two to three years, MassCEC will enable these organizations to develop and expand workforce development activities while leveraging existing workforce resources, such as the MassHire Workforce Investment Boards and Career Center network, existing Community College and CTI programs, etc.

MassCEC supports organizations that assist Massachusetts-based Minority- and Women-Owned Businesses (MWBEs) and other underrepresented businesses in their creation, entry, or expansion into fields that are critical to meeting the Commonwealth's climate goals. Historically, underrepresented businesses have faced systemic barriers resulting in limited access to capital, procurement and workforce challenges, and insufficient networks. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensuring underrepresented businesses can participate meaningfully in Massachusetts’ growing clean-energy economy.

Through its Climate-Critical Underrepresented Business Support (CUBS) Grants, MassCEC provides up to $800,000 in grant funding and technical support to jumpstart the development of a regional “Hub and Spoke” support system. This approach will provide uniform services through regional “Hubs,” while “Spoke” partners will offer complementary or additional services to further help underrepresented businesses enter and expand in climate-critical fields.   

Applicants to the Implementation Grants and MWBE Support Grants that are not at the stage of implementation may be instead eligible for planning and capacity grants.  Applicants may apply for $20,000 to $150,000 in funding for work completed over six months to two years. MassCEC will support organizations that have a strong vision of workforce training or MWBE support that need additional resources and time to develop partnerships, leverage other funding and resources, and prepare for implementation.

The current round is now open. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until May 19, 2025.