Workforce Development in Greater Richmond
Supporting those seeking career advancement and small businesses driving our economy forward will help close the intergenerational wealth gap, lead to a better workforce and a stronger community. Locally, cross-sector workforce coalitions are implementing tools that connect job seekers with barrier-reducing resources and employers in high-demand fields. Many organizations are providing wrap around services for job seekers and innovative training programs to build critical skills so they can get and keep living wage employment.
About Workforce Development in Our Region
Regionally, a gap exists between available jobs in growing industries and residents qualified to fill them. Many need training for high paying careers in fields like healthcare, manufacturing or IT.
Additionally, the rate of people who belong to the “working poor” – employed full-time but below the poverty line – is two times higher for Black workers and four times higher for Hispanic workers compared to White workers.
Small businesses account for 65% of local employment, but many minority business owners struggle to access capital and other critical resources.
Get Involved and Give Back
Wondering what you can do to help? Below are a few suggestions for ways you can make a difference.
Donate
Help Fund Grants for Workforce Development
Join with other members of the community to contribute to The Fund for Economic Prosperity. Your gift is tax deductible, and you'll be partnering with others across the region to help create funds to strengthen, expand and diversify the region's workforce.
The Community Foundation’s Fund for Entrepreneurial Growth awards grants to organizations supporting minority business owners, entrepreneurs, and student entrepreneurial programming each year.
Volunteer
Have an impact in Workforce Development
Many local organizations post volunteer opportunities on CFengage.org — from in-person to DIY or virtual, there are many options for you, with a group or your family.
This is a sampling of the current volunteer opportunities that are available. You can see the full listing by clicking the Volunteer button.
Stay Informed
Learn More About Workforce Development
It’s important to learn more about the causes that you care about. You can read related news and articles, research organizations making a difference, attend an educational event on the topic or discover ways to advocate for solutions.
The Richmond Federal Reserve Research on Workforce
The Richmond Fed explores the activities, policies and programs aimed at educating and training the workforce, which is key to achieving the Fed's goal of "maximum sustainable employment."
Network2Work RVA
Network2WorkRVA connects skilled job seekers with employers looking to fill vital roles within their companies. They help job seekers find jobs that pay a living wage by connecting them to training, support and resources.
National Equity Atlas - Workforce
The National Equity Atlas is America's most detailed report card on racial and economic equity.
2024 High Demand Occupations List
This tool is designed to provide access to the 2024 High Demand Occupations List and core labor market data for all Virginia occupations. It offers vital information such as current employment, median annual earnings, average annual openings, and a five-year workforce projection for each occupation
Virginia REALTORS Reports
Virginia REALTORS® publishes various reports on residential and commercial real estate markets and real estate industry.
RVA Eviction Lab
RVA Eviction Lab at VCU collects, analyzes, and shares data and research to inform policymaking to support stable housing.
Connect With An Expert
We’re here to help you make an impact. Let’s connect and explore the possibilities.