High Road Construction Careers 2026
The California Workforce Development Board (CWDB), in partnership with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), is pleased to announce the availability of $8 million in grant funding for Round One of the High Road to Construction Careers 2026 (HRCC 2026) Grant Program, a California Jobs First Initiative.
A second round of funding will be released through a competitive solicitation in the 2026-27 State Fiscal Year.
GRANT SNAPSHOT
Available Funding: $8 Million
Amount Funded: $8 Million
Number of Awards: 13
Funding Source: Senate Bill (SB) 150
Start Date: Round One – June (estimate)
End Date: December 2028
All dates subject to change.
HRCC MAP
PROGRAM
The HRCC 2026 grant program’s objectives are to:
- Meet demand: Train workers to meet the hiring needs of public infrastructure and constructions projects.
- Promote access: Support entry into joint-apprenticeship programs for individuals who have traditionally faced barriers to employment in the construction trades, including women, veterans, and justice-involved individuals.
- Boost the economy: Increase employment, boost incomes, and drive economic activity in communities that need it most.
APPLICATION KICK OFF WEBINAR
A recorded kick off webinar providing an overview of the HRCC 2026 Round One grant program is on CWDB’s YouTube channel for your viewing.
GRANT TIMELINE
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| RFA Release | April 15, 2026 |
| Application Kick Off Webinar | April 21, 2026 @ 10:30 a.m. PDT |
| Virtual Office Hours | April 30, 2026 @ 1:30 p.m. PDT |
| Applications Due (Deadline) | May 6, 2026 @ 5:00 p.m. PDT |
| Award Announcement | Mid-May |
| Exhibit Modifications | 1-2 weeks |
| Agreement Processing | 1-2 weeks |
| Program Start Date | Upon grant agreement execution (estimated June 10th) |
| Grant Term | 8-18 months* |
All dates provided are estimates and may be subject to change. We encourage prospective applicants to check this webpage frequently for updates.
*Round One funds are intended to serve as an eight (8) month bridge until Round Two funds are solicited and awarded; however, awarded Round One funds may be used for up to 18 months.
