Investing in Mississippi’s Future: EquipMS Grant Applications Now Open for CTE Programs 

10/01/2024

JACKSON, MS — AccelerateMS, Mississippi’s office for workforce development strategy and coordination, is requesting applications to invest in Mississippi’s high school career and technical programs.  

Now in its second year, the EquipMS Grant program, established through House Bill 588 (2023) as the Mississippi -12 Workforce Development Grant program, aims to provide funding for Mississippi public school districts to modernize, replace, or otherwise enhance priority sector career and technical high school programs.  

Funding for these programs will be targeted at programs that prepare students for Advanced Manufacturing, Industrial Maintenance, and Electrical careers. Priority will be given to new and converting programs in these high-quality CTE pathways.  Awards are expected to range between $25,000 and $150,000, and the performance period may not exceed one calendar year. 

“Successful career preparation begins long before high school graduation,” said Shelika Hooker, Director of Grants Management at AccelerateMS. “The commitment of our state leadership to workforce development at all levels is opening up new pathways for students to gain skills earlier, focusing on opportunities in the local job market.” 

Last year, AccelerateMS awarded approximately $1.4 million to career and technical education efforts at 25 high schools and districts across the state. The Lowndes County School District utilized its funds to purchase heavy equipment simulators to practice the skills needed for future workforce jobs in the region.

“The students love having the opportunity to use the simulators in class, and we are excited to show them off during our middle and high school tours this year,” said Susan McClelland, Ed.S., CTE Director with the district. “We feel they will spark interest for future CTE students.” 

Eligible entities are Public Mississippi Secondary School Districts that have or are starting (SY 25-26) a program that aligns with a priority occupation as identified by AccelerateMS. Programs awarded during the Spring 2024 award cycle are not eligible to apply for this award cycle. 

The deadline for application submission is no later than 5:00 pm CT on Friday, December 13, 2024.  No late submissions will be considered.  Notifications of the award will be made by January 15, 2025. Click here to download the application.  

AccelerateMS serves the people and businesses of Mississippi by developing and deploying workforce strategies to connect individuals with transformative, high-paying careers. By leveraging resources and partnering with organizations that hold complementary missions, AccelerateMS effectuates positive change, creating sustained individual, community and, statewide economic prosperity.