The Forward Fund, a Wilmington, North Carolina-based nonprofit, will use Golden LEAF funds to expand a program that provides zero-interest loans to students from rural North Carolina enrolled in high-demand workforce training programs to remove financial barriers and improve student persistence. The program is designed to assist eligible students enrolled in CDL, electrical lineman and other skilled trades programs, healthcare pathways, and basic law enforcement at North Carolina community colleges. The loans are for essential living expenses and tuition gaps with repayment tied to successful employment. Success of the project will be measured by the number of students completing curriculum and continuing education workforce programs, job placement in aligned fields, and post training wages with a target of students achieving an income of at least $45,000 annually. The Forward Fund estimates 100 students will benefit from these loans. Golden LEAF funds will be used for participant support (loan capital), loan servicing and origination fees, personnel, and technology and related equipment.
