Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) today announced a $400,000 investment to connect veterans with competitive job opportunities and address barriers to gainful employment. While many government and community-based programs already work together to help veterans, projects funded through L&I’s Veterans Employment Program (VEP) initiative helps bridge the gap by funding innovative strategies and strengthening existing support systems.
“Pennsylvania’s veterans have already proven their dedication through service to our country, and they deserve every opportunity to thrive when they return home,” said L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker. “Through initiatives like the Veterans Employment Program, the Shapiro Administration is committing to helping veterans and their families overcome barriers to employment, build meaningful careers, and find their place in the civilian workforce. This investment is another example of how we’re working to ensure that every veteran in Pennsylvania has the support they need to succeed.”
Governor Josh Shapiro has a proven track record of investing in workforce development, including initiatives specially designed to support veterans. Since January 2023, Governor Shapiro has increased funding in workforce training programs by nearly $65 million, including apprenticeships and technical education that benefit veterans along with grants for the Veterans Employment Program (VEP) and PA Veteran Farming Network – that’s a 50% increase since the day he took office.
"When our veterans transition from military service into meaningful civilian careers, everyone benefits,” said Maj. Gen. John Pippy, Pennsylvania’s adjutant general and head of the DMVA. “Their leadership, discipline, and problem-solving skills make them an incredible asset to Pennsylvania’s workforce. By investing in programs that connect veterans with employment opportunities, we’re not just supporting those who’ve served us, we’re strengthening our communities and fueling our commonwealth’s economy."
Eligible applicants include local workforce development boards, non-profit and non-governmental entities, community-based organizations, education and post-secondary institutions, labor organizations, business associations and economic development groups. One grant will go toward a project serving veterans and their spouses across the Commonwealth, while another grant will go toward a program serving veterans and their spouses specifically in Delaware County.
Applications are due by December 5, 2025, at 11:59 P.M. This funding opportunity is 100% state funded.
More information about Veterans Employment Program grant funding and other available grant opportunities can be found on L&I's website.
For more information on the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, please visit the website or follow L&I on Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.
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