The Endowment awards $5.17M to expand workforce programs in New Hanover County
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The New Hanover Community Endowment is investing more than $5.17 million into workforce development initiatives aimed at expanding career pathways for youth and adults across New Hanover County.
The funding includes three grants designed to strengthen education-to-career pipelines, support apprenticeships and address local workforce needs, while aligning with North Carolina’s goal of increasing the number of residents with college degrees or industry-recognized credentials.
A $2 million grant to the Greater Wilmington Chamber Foundation will expand the Career and Leadership Development Academy, which introduces seventh-grade students in New Hanover County Schools to local industries through hands-on learning, mentorship and business partnerships.
Meanwhile, the Cape Fear Community College Foundation will receive $3 million to launch a New Hanover County Apprenticeship Accelerator Program. The initiative will create a dedicated apprenticeship department to grow “earn-and-learn” opportunities and strengthen connections between education and employers.
An additional $370,000 collaborative grant, funded by The Endowment alongside partners including the Lennar Foundation, the Charles Koch Foundation and Live Oak Bank, will support a construction trades training and job placement program. The effort will provide participants with certifications, job skills and direct pathways into local employment.
Leaders say the investments are focused on building long-term economic mobility by better aligning education, training and real-world job experience in the region.
“Workforce development drives our four pillar goals,” said Sophie Dagenais, President and CEO of The Endowment. “When youth lack clear pathways or adults face barriers to work, everyone is held back. This suite of grants opens horizons for youth, helping them shape their futures, and supports adults through training and apprenticeships. By aligning schools, employers, and communities, we can strengthen the systems that prepare residents for opportunity, help address labor shortages, and promote long-term economic mobility.”
