Office of Workforce and Lifelong Learning (OWLL) Fund

The Office of Workforce and Lifelong Learning (OWLL) offers a variety of non-credit programs tailored to meet the needs of local employers in high-demand sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and information technology. These programs equip students with industry-recognized credentials and highly employable skills—exactly what Connecticut businesses need. While these programs don't offer academic degrees, they provide essential training that directly leads to job opportunities.

However, a significant challenge remains: many potential students, especially those from underrepresented communities, cannot afford these programs due to the lack of financial assistance. Non-credit workforce training programs aren't covered by traditional state or federal funding sources, such as Pell Grants, state higher education funds, or loans. As a result, students are left with limited, restrictive grants or private loans, which often aren’t enough to make this vital training accessible.

We are calling on your generosity to support scholarships that will provide students with the financial assistance they need to access these crucial workforce programs. Your donation will directly impact individuals seeking to enhance their skills, secure employment, and contribute to Connecticut's economic growth. With your help, we can ensure that more individuals have the opportunity to gain the training they need for a brighter future—for themselves and for our state.

Please help bridge the gap and give more students the chance to succeed.