Background

In 2021, Workforce Matters published A Racial Equity Framework for Workforce Development Funders, a new guide intended to identify concrete ways for workforce development funders to interrupt the systemic racism embedded within the field’s practices, policies, and programs; the institution of philanthropy; our own organizations; and the labor markets of communities we serve.

One of the key opportunities for action lifted up by the Framework is centering workers and learners of color. Those individuals who are most directly affected by workforce development investments, initiatives, practices, programs, and policies should have a key role in influencing their design, implementation, and assessment. Yet, the field of workforce development has a long way to go in learning to center and respect the voices, experiences, and leadership of the people it serves.

We believe that funders can take additional steps to ensure that Black, Indigenous, Latinx/Hispanic, Asian American and Pacific Islander, and other People of Color authentically shape workforce efforts. To this end, Workforce Matters is launching a new pooled fund, the Fund for Workforce Equity, to spark innovative strategies for centering workers and learners, document lessons learned, and lift up promising practices for funders and practitioners alike.

Interested in learning more?

• Review answers to frequently asked questions about the Fund for Workforce Equity, including general information, information for funders, and information for applicants.
• View the recording and slide deck from our January 26, 2022 Virtual Info Session for funders.
• Browse our collection of resources to learn more about strategies for centering workers and learners.

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