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Workforce
Preparedness

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Golden LEAF supports workforce projects that increase the number of qualified individuals with skills aligned with the current and future needs of North Carolina businesses and prepare students with the technical and life skills necessary to enter work.

Projects awarded in this priority area will gather data to support outcomes including:

  • Increase in students earning at least one academic credential (curriculum diploma, certificate, or associate degree/con ed certificate) in the area funded.
  • Increase in students earning at least one industry/third party certification, license, or other credential (nonacademic) in the area funded.
  • Increase in high school students completing CTE pathways in the area funded.
  • Increase in secondary or post-secondary students participating in work-based learning.
  • Increase in secondary students receiving meaningful exposure and opportunities to explore local career opportunities.
Funding Opportunities for Workforce Preparedness Projects

Workforce Preparedness News

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All in NC: Investing in Rural Schools is Investing in North Carolina’s Future Workforce

In rural North Carolina, the future workforce is cultivated in classrooms where middle school students are wrestling with math problems and exploring the first ideas of what their careers might one day be. That’s why the Golden LEAF Foundation launched the Golden LEAF Schools Initiative, a $25 million commitment over five years to strengthen middle school math instruction and career development in 15 North Carolina rural schools.
August 13, 2025
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Critical Conversations with Scott T. Hamilton featuring North Carolina State Superintendent of Public Instruction Maurice “Mo” Green

Recently, Golden LEAF President, Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton sat down with the State Superintendent of Public Instruction Maurice “Mo” Green via Zoom and filmed an episode of Critical Conversations. In this series, Scott talks with professionals about economic development issues affecting the state. Superintendent Green has served as the North Carolina State Superintendent of Public Instruction since January 1, 2025.
August 13, 2025
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Persistence and public-private partnerships net new industrial park, satellite campus in Aurora

What started as a vision to boost the economy in the rural town of Aurora has resulted in a new industrial park with jobs on the way. On June 19, the Town of Aurora and Beaufort County Community College broke ground on the Aurora Industrial Park and the college’s only satellite campus, which will be located within the park.
July 23, 2025