Maryland Department of Labor opens 2026 grant applications to strengthen healthcare workforce
Programs support recruitment, retention, and career advancement for frontline healthcare workers
BALTIMORE, MD (January 30, 2026) — The Maryland Department of Labor today announced the opening of competitive grant applications for the 2026 cycle of the Direct Care Workforce Innovation Program (DCWIP) and the Career Pathways for Healthcare Workers Program (CPHWP). The programs will invest a total of $750,000 in Maryland’s current and future frontline healthcare workers—supporting their recruitment, retention, and career advancement.
“Maryland’s healthcare sector is continually growing, and we have significant healthcare workforce shortages. The people of our state feel those impacts every day,” said Maryland Department of Labor Secretary Portia Wu. “By investing in Marylanders and enabling them to build lasting, rewarding careers in healthcare, we’re strengthening the care our communities rely on.”
The Direct Care Workforce Innovation Program supports strategies to grow Maryland’s direct care workforce, including training for high-demand roles such as nursing assistants, home health aides, and direct support professionals. Successful applicants will demonstrate a strong understanding of the barriers facing individuals entering the direct care workforce and propose solutions to address those challenges. Applicants are required to dedicate a portion of grant funds to provide direct financial support to participants—such as assistance with transportation or childcare—to help remove barriers to employment.
The Career Pathways for Healthcare Workers Program supports continuing education and training for frontline healthcare workers seeking to move into higher-skill, higher-wage roles. Employers who apply must partner with a Maryland-based community college or Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and commit to providing a wage increase to employees who successfully complete training.
Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to attend a virtual pre-proposal conference on February 11, 2026, to learn more about program requirements and application guidelines:
- 10–11 a.m. for the Direct Care Workforce Innovation Program
- 11 a.m.–12 p.m. for the Career Pathways for Healthcare Workers Program
Applications for both programs are due Friday, April 3, 2026, with awards expected to begin June 1, 2026. More information is available on the Direct Care Workforce Innovation Program and Career Pathways for Healthcare Workers Program webpages.
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The Maryland Department of Labor strives to create an equitable and inclusive Maryland where all residents have the opportunities and resources to attain financial stability, reach their career potential, and contribute to their communities; where businesses have access to capital and the skilled workforce they need to succeed; where workplaces are safe and well-regulated; and where the economy is resilient and growing. For updates and information, follow Labor on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and visit our website.