North Raleigh Today

The Lowe's Foundation has announced nearly $9 million in Gable Grants to support 15 nonprofits across the United States, aiming to bolster the skilled trades workforce. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the foundation, which has awarded over $34 million since 2023 to advance training programs for future tradespeople. The focus areas include carpentry, construction, HVAC, electrical work, plumbing, and appliance repair.

Janice Dupré, Lowe's executive vice president of human resources and chair of the Lowe's Foundation, emphasized the importance of these grants. "We listen closely to contractors and know that many candidates don't have the necessary skills to fill the wide range of open trades positions," she said. "Through modern training methods, these nonprofits are unlocking the workforce's potential while building an economy that rewards skills, not just titles or four-year degrees."

Jim Tobin, CEO of the National Association of Home Builders, expressed gratitude for the foundation's support. "We are grateful for the support of the Lowe's Foundation and their Gable Grants that will help fund the training of the next generation of skilled trade professionals," he stated.

The grants will benefit organizations such as Alaska Works in Anchorage; Hope Renovations in Carrboro, North Carolina; Latino Academy of Workforce Development in Madison, Wisconsin; Moore Community House in Biloxi, Mississippi; Next Step of West Michigan in Grand Rapids; Nontraditional Employment for Women in New York; North Alabama Homebuilding Academy in Huntsville; SER Metro-Detroit Jobs for Progress; Trade Institute of Pittsburgh; and Uncommon Construction in New Orleans.

Additionally, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) has been awarded a Gable Grant as a new national nonprofit partner. BGCA plans to enhance job readiness programs at three pilot locations: Hobe Sound, Florida; Madison, Wisconsin; and Seattle.

Renewed partnerships with Goodwill Industries International, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), and SkillsUSA will continue supporting various skilled trades training programs nationwide.

The next cycle for Gable Grant applications from community and technical colleges is scheduled from March 1 to March 31. Further information on eligibility guidelines can be found at Lowes.com/Foundation.