Note: For Phase 3, grants are for the expansion of existing partnerships and workforce development programs that have demonstrated outcomes in job placement, career advancement, and wage gains for Coloradans in the specified sectors. This resource blog provides best practices to help prospective applicants determine program alignment with Phase 3.
Overview
Opportunity Now Colorado was created to fund industry-led talent development strategies that address employer and worker demand across Colorado. Strong programs will provide a viable and appropriate model in response to the talent needs identified by employers in their target region and industry to fill good jobs.
Responding to Demand
Colorado Future Jobs provides talent demand on a hyper-local level. Developed in partnership with the State of Colorado, this resource provides timely insight into regional and county industry demands, occupation demands, and employment preferences of learners and earners throughout Colorado.
Supporting Focus Populations
Additionally, Opportunity Now emphasizes supporting focus populations, which are defined by Opportunity Now as Coloradans who live in rural areas, have lower wealth, and/or are from historically underrepresented, underserved, or under-resourced communities. Please see the Phase 3 Request for Application (RFA) Process Guide to understand how Opportunity Now defines these populations.
The Guide to Supporting Focus Populations aims to support prospective Opportunity Now applicants in determining program alignment for Phase 3, including how your program outreach and program activities meet the unique needs of the focus population(s) you serve and your history and track record serving these populations.
Additional Resources