Our new guide (PDF download) is written for community college and system leaders preparing to apply for and implement Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grants. These grants prioritize short-term programs that lead directly to employment and require institutions to demonstrate how credentials clearly communicate skills to employers. Colleges are expected to build the infrastructure that connects programs, credentials, and outcomes in ways that support funding eligibility and long-term workforce value.

This guide outlines the technical and operational foundation needed to strengthen grant proposals and ensure funded programs translate into measurable employment results. It reflects the combined work of Territorium, C-BEN, CAEL, and Credential Engine to support institutions as they build competency-based pathways, integrate credit for prior learning, publish transparent credential data, and connect verified skills to employment opportunities. Together, these efforts help institutions align workforce training, credential transparency, and skills-based hiring so funded programs can demonstrate clear workforce outcomes and meet emerging federal expectations.