ST. PAUL — The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development announced more than $4.8 million in awards for 39 organizations providing young people with workforce development and training.
DEED's Youth at Work Opportunity grants program serves youths of color and youths with disabilities who are economically disadvantaged or considered to be at-risk.
Grantees connect people ages 14-24 with high-paying jobs in high-growth industries.
“Youth development and job training is crucial to the well-being of our communities and our state's economy,” stated DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek in a news release.
“At DEED, we take pride in providing opportunities and assistance for some of our most vulnerable community members. Supporting the youth of today helps ensure Minnesota has a healthy and vibrant workforce tomorrow.”
The JET - Northeast Minnesota Office of Job Training in Virginia will receive a $300,000 Youth at Work Opportunity grant. And the Greater Bemidji / Minnesota Innovation Initiative was granted $200,000. Bi-County Community Action Programs, serving Beltrami and Cass counties, will receive $100,000, as will the Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency in Virginia.
“Across Minnesota, our Youth at Work partners are helping young people gain valuable skills and pursue economic stability," stated DEED Deputy Commissioner for Workforce Development Marc Majors in a news release.
“We're proud that these grants will support the next generation in building a stronger and more resilient workforce."
-
Screenshot/Minnesota Department of Natural ResourcesThe agency announced its decision to require supplemental environmental review Oct. 8, 2026, for the copper-nickel project planned between Babbitt and Hoyt Lakes. -
Contributed/Sora Shimazaki via PexelsVincent Bellomo, 76, was sentenced in September 2026. He originally faced six felonies after investigators found he had large sums in his savings accounts while he was applying for benefits. -
Megan Buffington/KAXEDeputy Aaron Ammerman, who is running for Cass County sheriff, filed the complaint against Sheriff Bryan Welk in January. An investigation was closed with no apparent action. -
Contributed/Trina Swanson for CongressWhile Democrats running for the U.S. House have an advantage this year, Stauber has positioned himself well in the Iron Range district.
