The Arkansas Department of Commerce has announced the opening of the application portal for the American Manufacturing Apprenticeship Incentive Fund, a landmark national initiative designed to expand high-quality registered apprenticeships in advanced manufacturing across the United States.
The program supports registered apprenticeships in 120 approved advanced manufacturing occupations, with $35.8 million available nationwide for eligible program sponsors and employers. Arkansas will serve as the sole administrator of the fund through a four-year cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Labor.
“We anticipate this picking up steam fairly quickly as we’ve already had many meaningful conversations with industry associations, chambers of commerce, companies, and registered apprenticeship program sponsors from across the U.S.,” said Cody Waits, Executive Director of Arkansas Workforce Connections. “Our priority is making sure these funds benefit manufacturers of all sizes, in all states.”
Under the fund’s pay-for-performance model, eligible registered apprenticeship sponsors and employers may receive $3,500 per apprentice after the successful completion of a 90-day probationary period. Funding may support newly enrolled apprentices, upskilled incumbent workers, and eligible former apprentices entering advanced manufacturing programs.
To qualify, applicants must already have an established registered apprenticeship program in an approved occupation. Funding limits may apply during the initial phase to ensure broad participation. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all available funds are fully obligated.
For portal access, eligibility requirements, and application guidance, visit Apprenticeship.gov or ArkansasOSD.com/MFGfund.
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