TRENTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development has awarded $6 million to six organizations to provide digital skills training to residents receiving public assistance, state officials announced Monday.
The funding is the second round awarded through the state’s Digital Literacy Training Grant, which is intended to help participants in Work First New Jersey gain technology skills, earn industry-recognized credentials and connect with employment opportunities.
The six recipients are Atlantic Cape Community College, Inspire U, Long Beach Island Community Center, Mercer Med Tech, New Jersey Institute of Technology and the Workforce Development Board of Northwest New Jersey.
Work First New Jersey provides assistance to eligible residents and families, including cash assistance, child care, job readiness services and short-term housing. The digital literacy program serves participants receiving assistance through programs including Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and General Assistance.
The state launched the Digital Literacy Training Grant program in 2025. During its first round, 425 participants received digital skills training and 181 residents earned industry-recognized certifications or credentials, according to the Labor Department. Sixty-six participants obtained unsubsidized employment.
“Digital literacy isn’t just about learning technology — it’s about opening doors to careers for Garden State residents to build stronger futures,” acting Labor Commissioner Kevin D. Jarvis said in a statement.
The program provides funding to nonprofit and for-profit organizations, government entities and higher education institutions to incorporate digital training into existing workforce development programs.
Individual grant recipients can receive up to $1 million during the 18-month grant period, which began July 30 and runs through Jan. 30, 2028.
New Jersey Institute of Technology is receiving support through the program for a second year.
“A second year of support reflects the importance of equipping residents with the digital knowledge and skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce,” Michael Edmondson, NJIT’s associate provost of continuing learning, said in a statement.
Deshawn Riley, who participated in digital literacy training through NJIT, said he entered the program with little information technology training and has since earned a CompTIA Tech+ certification.
“Now I’m CompTIA Tech+ certified and continuing my education in this in-demand career,” Riley said.
The Labor Department said the grants are designed to encourage partnerships among employers, educational institutions and community organizations while expanding access to training and career opportunities for Work First New Jersey participants.
Additional information about the Digital Literacy Training Grant and other state workforce grant programs is available through the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
