How to Get Government Funding for Apprenticeship Programs in Kansas

Apprenticeship programs in Kansas offer a proven pathway to skilled careers while addressing workforce shortages. For employers and educators, securing government funding can make these programs more accessible and sustainable. This guide covers all available funding opportunities, tax credits, and local initiatives to support apprenticeship training in Kansas.

Overview of Apprenticeship Programs in Kansas

Kansas supports registered apprenticeship programs across industries like construction, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. These programs combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, typically lasting 1-4 years. The Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship (KORA) oversees program registration and funding distribution.

Recent state investments highlight the growing importance of apprenticeships. In 2023, Governor Laura Kelly announced over $1 million in grants to expand programs, benefiting 12 businesses statewide. Rural communities (populations under 50,000) receive special consideration through initiatives like the RAISE Grant.

Funding Opportunities for Kansas Apprenticeships

State Grants

• Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship State Grants: $3.3 million available for program creation/expansion. Priority given to high-demand fields and rural areas.
  Source: ksapprenticeship.org

• RAISE Grants: Specifically target rural employers. Funds can cover training costs, equipment, and instructor wages.
  Application: Kansas Commerce

Federal Pass-Through Funds

Kansas distributes federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds to support apprentice wages and related instruction. Contact local Workforce Development Boards for availability.

Tax Credits

• Apprenticeship Tax Credit: $2,500 per qualified apprentice hired (2023-2025). Available to employers in all industries.
  Details: KS Revenue

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for most Kansas apprenticeship funding:

• Programs must be registered with KORA or the U.S. Department of Labor
• Employers must demonstrate ability to provide paid on-the-job training
• Training must lead to industry-recognized credentials
• Rural programs may receive preferential scoring

Educational institutions partnering with employers can also apply for instructional grants.

Application Process

1. Register Your Program: Complete KORA registration (ksapprenticeship.org)
2. Review Funding Cycles: State grants typically open in Q1 with 60-day application windows
3. Prepare Documentation: Include training outlines, wage progression plans, and partnership agreements
4. Submit Through Kansas Grants System: Requires DUNS number and SAM.gov registration

Pro tip: Attend KORA's quarterly webinars for application tips. Missed deadlines? Explore continuous funding options like the tax credit.

Tax Credits and Incentives

Beyond the $2,500/apprentice credit, Kansas offers:

• Workers Compensation Premium Reduction: Up to 10% discount for maintaining registered programs
• State Contracting Preferences: Bidding advantages for employers with apprenticeship programs

Source: Verified TradePathUSA.com government records

Local Programs and Initiatives

Wichita Area

• Wichita State University Tech: Partners with aviation manufacturers on earn-and-learn programs
• Kansas Construction Apprenticeship Foundation: Offers pre-apprenticeship training with direct job placement

Kansas City Metro

• KC STEM Alliance: Focuses on tech apprenticeships with 80+ employer partners
• Metropolitan Community College: Hosts registered programs in healthcare and IT

For more Kansas workforce resources, visit our Kansas state hub.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to claim $1,250 apprentice payment?
This refers to federal incentives administered through state workforce agencies. In Kansas, contact the Department of Commerce's apprenticeship team for eligibility verification.

Are there free apprenticeship programs in Kansas?
Many programs charge no tuition, with costs covered by employers or grants. Southwestern College's electrician program, for example, combines grant funding with employer sponsorships.

Where to find apprenticeships in Wichita?
Check with the Kansas Department of Commerce's local office or browse opportunities at KansasWorks.

What's the difference between registered and unregistered apprenticeships?
Only registered programs qualify for state/funding benefits and lead to nationally-recognized credentials. Verify registration status through KORA.

Next Steps

1. Bookmark the Kansas Apprenticeship Resource Page
2. Connect with your local Workforce Development Board
3. Review our national guide on Registered Apprenticeship Programs

For employers, the combination of grants and tax credits can offset up to 100% of training costs. Start planning your program today to tap into Kansas' $3.3 million funding pool.