California Construction News staff writer
Five construction-focused projects aimed at training marginalized youth and addressing critical labor shortages are among 26 initiatives awarded a total of $9 million in Catalyst grants under the California Jobs First regional investment program.
The grants, announced by the California Community Foundation, will fund feasibility studies and development planning for proposals focused on high-growth sectors in Los Angeles County, including construction, renewable energy and video production. The construction industry in particular is projected to grow by 8.5% through 2028, fueled by demand from the 2028 Olympics, wildfire recovery, and the need for affordable housing.
Among the grantees,Pasadena City College received $400,000 to develop plans to expand training for construction workers in response to labor shortages intensified by the Eaton Fire disaster.Destination Crenshaw, also awarded $400,000, plans to upskill workers in anticipation of infrastructure and construction jobs tied to the upcoming Olympics.
In the Mix Inc. received a $164,010 grant to explore its “Paint on Purpose” initiative, which aims to train veterans, foster youth, displaced workers and formerly incarcerated individuals for careers or business ownership in construction and skilled trades.
Construction workforce programs are a key part of the state’s broader economic strategy, which seeks to center equity, sustainability, and job quality in regional development. “We will see opportunities for training in industries that really the community has not seen with this kind of intention,” said Najuma Smith, a community development leader and member of the grant review panel.
The Catalyst program supports early-stage development of proposals and was designed to prioritize projects that offer long-term economic benefits to underserved communities. Selected projects span the county from the Antelope Valley to the South Bay and Harbor areas, reflecting diverse geographic and demographic needs.
The grants were selected from 127 submissions by a community-led review committee composed of members from the Los Angeles County Jobs First Collaborative.
The construction grants are part of a larger initiative to build a more inclusive economy in Los Angeles County—one that connects historically underrepresented communities with emerging opportunities in high-demand industries.
