What is the Express Program and how do I apply?

Updated 4.9.2025

Please note that funding for training grants from the Workforce Training Fund Program has been exhausted for State Fiscal Year 2025 (July 2024 – June 2025).  Applications for both Express Program and General Program grants have been paused until funds for State Fiscal Year 2026 (July 2025 – June 2026) are available.  While specific dates are not yet available, we hope applications can be submitted again in July 2025. During our funding pause, you can still determine your eligibility and get ready to apply once our application reopens in July.  

Welcome to the Express Program! We are glad you are interested in learning more about our program. The Express Program, an offering of the Workforce Training Fund, provides Massachusetts employers fast, simple access to grant-funded training, helping businesses respond to emerging needs. Last year, the Express Program awarded thousands of training grants totaling more than $19 million dollars, with applications accepted and grants awarded on a rolling basis throughout the year.

This article's intention is to provide guidance on filling out an Express application once you have chosen your courses and confirmed your business' eligibility / have your compliance documentation handy. If you're still working on these two first steps, see the resources below: 

To learn more about how the Express Program works, what is needed to get started, and see the 6 Steps to Express Success, visit our website here. To view full program guidelines, click here.
	The Express Course Directory (ECD) is a living repository of all courses currently approved as reimbursable through the Express Program. What courses can I apply for? provides a walkthrough of how to navigate and use the ECD. While we maintain a directory of pre-approved courses that can be submitted for reimbursement once completed, Commonwealth Corporation does not offer the training listed in the directory ourselves, nor do we coordinate training (e.g., sign up, start and end dates, etc.) on behalf of the providers listed in our directory. Please be sure to connect with the training provider(s) of your selected courses to confirm details prior to submitting your application.
	Once you have chosen your courses and confirmed details, ensure that your business and trainees are eligible for the Express Program and are in compliance with the Commonwealth. More details can be found below: How can I determine if my organization is eligible to receive an Express Program grant? Which of my employees are eligible for funding? What compliance checks are required to be approved for a Workforce Training Fund Grant? How Can I Obtain a Certificate of Compliance from the Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA)?

For additional reference, more information regarding the Express Program and a sample application are available as attachments at the end of this article.