Duke Energy Foundation – Workforce Development Grants (Ohio & Kentucky)
Building the Energy Workforce of Tomorrow
Application Deadline: April 30, 2026
The Duke Energy Foundation offers Workforce Development Grants to support training and education programs that strengthen the energy workforce pipeline and address regional workforce needs in Ohio and Kentucky. This program focuses on equipping individuals with in-demand skills and credentials that support local economies and the future of the energy industry.
Organization: Duke Energy Foundation
Support Type: Charitable grants
Geographic Focus: Duke Energy service areas in Ohio and Kentucky
Average Grant Size: $10,000–$15,000
About the Funder
The Duke Energy Foundation is committed to supporting communities where Duke Energy operates by investing in education, workforce readiness, and economic mobility. Through its workforce development funding, the Foundation seeks to cultivate a skilled talent pipeline aligned with the evolving needs of the energy sector.
Funding Focus & Priority Programs
Grant funding supports workforce development and energy workforce pipeline cultivation, with preference given to the following program types (listed in order of priority):
Energy Industry Workforce Training
Programs preparing individuals for jobs vital to the energy sector, including:
- Lineworker training and engineering programs at community colleges
- Engineering, energy, and climate programs at four-year universities
- Certification programs specific to energy trades
Trades & Regional Workforce Training
Programs addressing critical workforce gaps, such as:
- Trades training programs with licenses and certifications
- Programmatic support for new or expanding training programs
Energy & Engineering Education (K–12 & Educators)
Programs building early awareness and readiness, including:
- Teacher professional development focused on energy concepts
- Out-of-school programs engaging students in engineering education
- District-level initiatives supporting energy and engineering learning
Programs outside these examples may be considered if they strongly align with workforce development goals, though funding is competitive.
Desired Outcomes
Funded programs should:
- Address regional workforce development needs
- Deliver recognized credentials or upskilling opportunities
- Demonstrate measurable outcomes that support local economic growth
Applicants must have a clear method to measure, track, and report outcomes and community impact.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, organizations must:
- Be a 501(c)(3) public charity in good standing
- Serve communities within Duke Energy service areas in Ohio or Kentucky
- Operate without discrimination
- Demonstrate the ability to track and report measurable program results
Funding Restrictions
The Duke Energy Foundation does not fund:
- Churches or evangelical organizations
- Private foundations
- For-profit or foreign organizations or individuals
- Political, legislative, or regulatory advocacy organizations
- Sports teams or events
- Religious programs or activities
- Utility bill assistance or cost reduction
- Fundraising events or campaigns
- General operating expenses
- Capital investments or improvements
- Endowments
Timeline & Review
📅 Application Deadline: April 30, 2026
📢 Grant Awards Announced: By June 1, 2026
Application Process
Eligible organizations must submit applications through the Duke Energy Foundation’s online grant portal. Proposals are evaluated competitively based on alignment with workforce priorities, regional need, and measurable impact.
Apply / Learn More
➡️ https://foundation.duke-energy.com/grants/ohio/workforce-development
Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit
This program is ideal for organizations that:
- Provide energy-related workforce training or education
- Serve Ohio or Kentucky communities within Duke Energy’s footprint
- Focus on credentials, trades, engineering, or career readiness
- Can demonstrate clear workforce and economic outcomes
Corporate Grants Guide Notes
Review Type: Competitive
Deadline: April 30, 2026
Average Award: $10,000–$15,000
Best Suited For: Community colleges, universities, workforce nonprofits, and education partners building the future energy workforce
