Texas Industry Recognized Apprenticeship (TIRA) Grant
Funds private-sector Texas employers to run paid apprenticeship programs combining on-the-job work and classroom learning.
The Texas Industry Recognized Apprenticeship (TIRA) Grant is a Texas Workforce Commission program with a total appropriation of approximately $10 million, designed to fund private-sector Texas employers that operate full-time paid apprenticeship programs in 25 designated target occupations. The program was originally established to address workforce shortages arising from hurricanes and natural disasters, as well as broader industry skill gaps. Each apprenticeship combines on-the-job paid work with classroom instruction delivered either in-person or virtually.
Eligibility is restricted to private-sector for-profit Texas employers operating in one or more of the 25 target occupations specified by the Commission. Nonprofit organizations, universities, and research institutions are not eligible. No maximum individual award amount is publicly specified; the program's $10 million total appropriation is performance-verified against apprenticeship outcomes. Applications are directed to TIRA@twc.texas.gov.
As of May 2026, TIRA is administratively paused: application reviews are suspended pending formal rule adoption required by new legislation under Texas Government Code Chapter 838. A public comment period closed March 23, 2026, and the timeline for rule finalization and program reopening has not been announced. Applicants interested in apprenticeship support from TWC should monitor the program page at twc.texas.gov/programs/apprenticeship/initiatives for rule adoption notices before preparing submissions.
Funds private-sector Texas employers to operate paid apprenticeship programs in 25 designated target occupations, combining on-the-job work with classroom instruction.
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