Applications open for American Manufacturing Apprenticeship Incentive - Arkansas Department of CommerceArkansas Department of Commerce

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Jan. 28, 2026)— The Arkansas Department of Commerce announced today 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 initiative supports registered apprenticeships in 120 approved advanced manufacturing occupations, with $35.8 million available to eligible program sponsors and employers nationwide. 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 following 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.

Applicants must have an established registered apprenticeship program in an approved occupation to be considered eligible. Funding limits may apply during the initial phase to maximize participation across sponsors and employers. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until 100% of available incentive funds are obligated.

For portal access, eligibility requirements, and application guidance, visit Apprenticeship.gov or ArkansasOSD.com/MFGfund.

###

About Arkansas Workforce Connections

Arkansas Workforce Connections is at the center of the state’s workforce development efforts, delivering career support and training for job seekers, connecting employers with skilled, work-ready talent, and offering industry solutions and incentives to maintain a skilled and technically trained workforce. Workforce Connections is a division of the Arkansas Department of Commerce. To learn more, visit dws.arkansas.gov.