Through Opportunity Now, Colorado has distributed nearly $90 million to grant recipients across the state to expand workforce development, create career pathways, and connect Coloradans with in-demand careers
DENVER — Governor Polis visited Opportunity Now grantee CrossPurpose to see firsthand how Opportunity Now investments are strengthening Colorado’s workforce and creating new career pathways for Coloradans. In 2024, CrossPurpose received $1.86 million in Opportunity Now grants to support initiatives that are equipping individuals with professional certifications and pre-apprenticeships that expand access to in-demand, good-paying jobs.
“It’s great to see Opportunity Now grants in action helping Coloradans gain new skills to join our state’s growing workforce, and support our booming economy. Partners like CrossPurpose are important for continuing Colorado’s work to invest in workforce opportunities that help people and businesses now and in the future," said Gov. Polis.
Yesterday, Gov. Polis toured CrossPurpose’s facilities in Denver meeting with members of the organization who help to provide Coloradans with the skills needed to secure high-paying, in-demand jobs. CrossPurpose provides coaching, case management, and workforce training in high-demand fields like healthcare, skilled trades, and transportation to help those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic gain employment and achieve economic stability. By partnering with industry, CrossPurpose connects graduates with employers while offering ongoing upskilling and financial planning support to ensure long-term success.
Gov. Polis’ visit followed the Opportunity Now Regional Talent Summit held earlier this week in the Denver region, one of a series of summits bringing together industry and education leaders focused on connecting Coloradans to good-paying jobs and meeting the needs of regions’ employers.
Opportunity Now has invested nearly $90 million distributed to 89 grant recipients statewide, funding regional partnerships between educational institutions, industry leaders, and employers to address Colorado’s workforce needs in high-demand industries. Established under HB22-1350, the initiative prioritizes key sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure and construction to ensure a skilled workforce for the state’s growing economy.
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