COVID-impacted Coloradans can access funding for a short-term credential through their local workforce center. Please complete this form to be contacted by a career coach at your local workforce center about opportunities.

If you are 16 or older and have experienced financial impact due to COVID-19, you are eligible to receive funding. This includes anyone unemployed or underemployed due to COVID-19 or who has otherwise been economically impacted by the pandemic since March 2020.

Eligibility Simplified

• 16 or older AND one of the following:

  • Unemployed

  • Underemployed

  • Currently employed workers are eligible when the worker or the employer has been economically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic

  • Experienced an economic loss or had additional household expenses due to the COVID-19 pandemic

  • Previously incarcerated

The costs will be covered for an industry-recognized credential to be obtained in 12 months or less. This support towards earning a short-term credential is available for both unemployed and employed individuals.

Funds must be used to complete only one short-term training program per individual. These funds cannot be used for High School Equivalency attainment* or to cover costs that have already been incurred.

*Learn more about the High School Equivalency Testing Program or the Workforce Diploma Pilot Program

Any credentials (including licensures, certifications, or certificates) earned that increase an individual's employability for in-demand industries or growth occupations that are recognized by the industry.

This could include earning a commercial driver’s license, H-VAC certification, or licensed practical nurse credential. You could also strengthen your digital or customer service skills to advance your career. View a list of other potential industry-recognized credentials.

HB21-1264 Funds Workforce Development Increase Worker Skills, which was signed by Governor Polis on June 23, includes $25M for Investments in Reskilling, Upskilling, and Next-skilling Workers.

This portion of funding, referred to as RUN, is being distributed by local workforce boards and community-based organizations focused on reskilling, upskilling, and next-skilling (RUN) for individuals whose work or training has been impacted by the pandemic.

RUN funding will support impacted individuals in earning a short-term, industry-recognized credential that leads to an in-demand, well-paying career.

If you have additional questions about training opportunities, please connect with your local workforce center to learn more, or complete this form to be contacted directly by a career coach at your local workforce center.