Ready To Work Fund

Helping New Apprentices Start Strong

Starting a career in the skilled trades is a big step, but it can come with upfront costs that make it difficult for some workers to get started.

Many new apprentices need work boots, tools, safety gear, or transportation before they receive their first paycheck.

The Ready to Work Fund helps remove these barriers by providing small grants or reimbursements to new apprentices entering the skilled trades.

The goal is simple: when someone earns an opportunity to start a trades career, they should be able to take it.

Who Can Apply

Applications can be submitted by:

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Apprentices 
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Employers 
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Union representatives 
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Training program partners 
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Applicants must meet the following qualifications:

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Be 18 years or older 
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Have a confirmed job offer or position as a registered or employer-sponsored apprentice

Be willing to commit to at least six months of employment in the apprenticeship position

Agree to provide brief follow-up updates at 30, 60, 90 days, and one year 


These check-ins help WV Women Work measure the success of the program and continue improving support for future apprentices.

What the Fund Can Support

The Ready to Work Fund may assist with essential work-related expenses such as:

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Work boots and safety gear 
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Hand tools or equipment 
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Work clothing 
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Apprenticeship initiation fees 
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Transportation costs 
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Emergency car repairs related to commuting to work

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Other approved work-related needs
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Support may be provided in two ways:

Direct Payment or Purchase
WV Women Work may purchase the needed item or pay the vendor directly.

Reimbursement
Applicants may request reimbursement for approved expenses already paid.

What Information Is Needed

To apply, apprentices or their representatives will need to provide:

Apprentice Information

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Full name 
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Phone number 
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Email 
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Home address 
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Age confirmation (18+) 
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Employer / Apprenticeship Information

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Employer or union name 
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Contact person and title 
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Phone and email 
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Apprenticeship trade or position 
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Start date of apprenticeship 
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Funding Request

Description of the item or support needed

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Total amount requested 
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Date the item or funding is needed by
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Whether the request is for direct payment/purchase or reimbursement

Background Information 
This information is optional and used for reporting purposes only. It will not affect your eligibility and helps us continue offering programs like this.

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Household income range 
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Family/household size 
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Veteran status 
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Justice-impacted status (if applicable)

Apply Online

Applications can be submitted through WV Women Work’s Ready to Work Fund Application Portal. 

The process is quick and designed to be completed in about 10 minutes.