The Florida Department of Education has allocated $12 million to expand workforce education programs through the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant Program (Workforce CAP). This funding supports eight programs across the state, focusing on agriculture, healthcare, and technology sectors. With this investment, Florida’s total funding for workforce education initiatives under Workforce CAP has reached $200 million since 2023.
Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. highlighted the importance of these investments: “Under Governor Ron DeSantis’ steadfast leadership, Florida has prioritized investments in career and technical education which lead to economic success for our students and our economy.” He added that the latest investment will strengthen workforce education programs and create new opportunities for students in high-demand careers.
Workforce CAP funds support high school and post-secondary programs by providing hands-on training in industries with growing demand. The institutions receiving grants include several county school districts and Florida State University – Lab School.
Baker County School District will receive $1.7 million to fund Agritechnology, Horticulture Science and Services, and Technical Agriculture Operations programs. Clay County School District will use its $1.7 million grant to expand various agricultural-related programs. Dixie County School District’s grant will enhance Agritechnology programs.
Hendry County School District will receive funding for Agritechnology, Technical Agriculture Operations, and Food Science programs. Hernando County School District plans to launch new Agritechnology programs with its grant. Levy County School District also aims to support new Agritechnology initiatives.
Sumter County School District is set to enhance its Agriculture Biotechnology, Animal Science and Services, among other programs with a similar grant amount. Lastly, Florida State University – Lab School will use $455,792 to improve Nursing Assistant, Commercial Art Technology, and Game/Simulation/Animation Visual Design courses.
The Workforce CAP Grant Program is vital for establishing career and technical education (CTE) programs that offer industry-recognized certifications from the CAPE Industry Certification Funding List. These resources are designed to equip students with necessary skills for emerging industries within Florida’s economy.
Further details about applying for the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant can be found at the Workforce CAP Grant Program website.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
