Leadership development does not have to compete with your operating budget.
The 2026 Culinary Agents Talent Insights Report found that career growth is the strongest reason hospitality professionals choose an employer, while burnout remains the leading reason they leave. Investing in leadership development helps address both, and there are funding programs available to help offset the cost.
From federal workforce initiatives to regional grant programs, these resources can help restaurants, hotels, and hospitality businesses invest in supervisors, managers, and future leaders without bearing the full financial investment.
Note: Funding availability, eligibility requirements, and award amounts vary by program. Always confirm current details directly with the administering organization before applying.
CareerOneStop
National Workforce Resource Directory
CareerOneStop helps employers identify local Workforce Development Boards, Small Business Development Centers, and state economic development agencies that administer workforce and training funding.
Best for: Finding local workforce grants and training resources.
Take Action: Search the CareerOneStop directory to identify funding opportunities in your area
DOL Employment and Training Administration (ETA) Apprenticeship Grants
Federal Workforce Funding
The U.S. Department of Labor periodically awards apprenticeship and workforce development grants through intermediary organizations rather than directly to employers. Partnering with organizations such as the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation or the American Hotel & Lodging Association may provide access to these funds.
Best for: Employers building long term workforce development strategies.
Take Action: Review current ETA apprenticeship grant opportunities
DOL ETA Funding Opportunities
Federal Grant Listings
The Department of Labor regularly publishes Notices of Funding Opportunity for apprenticeship, workforce development, and skills training initiatives.
Best for: Employers seeking new federal funding opportunities.
Take Action: Browse current funding opportunities
Incumbent Worker Training (IWT)
Federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
Administered through Local Workforce Development Boards, Incumbent Worker Training reimburses employers for a portion of leadership and workforce training costs for existing employees, typically those employed for at least six months. Reimbursement levels vary by state and employer size.
Best for: Upskilling current supervisors and managers.
Take Action: Search the web for your state's Local Workforce Development Board and Incumbent Worker Training program
NYC SBS Customized Training Grant Program
New York City
The New York City Department of Small Business Services reimburses qualifying businesses for up to 60 percent of eligible employee training costs. Funding can support leadership development, technology training, workforce advancement, and preparing employees for hard-to-fill positions.
Best for: New York City based hospitality employers.
Take Action: Learn about the NYC SBS Customized Training Grant Program
On the Job Training (OJT)
Federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
On the Job Training reimburses employers for a portion of wages while employees receive structured training, often alongside Registered Apprenticeship programs. Reimbursement may cover up to 75 percent of wages during the training period.
Best for: Employers combining leadership development with structured workforce training.
Take Action: Learn about WIOA On the Job Training funding
Restaurants Care Resilience Fund
California
The Restaurants Care Resilience Fund has awarded millions of dollars to independent restaurants, caterers, and food trucks throughout California. Grants may be used for equipment, operational improvements, employee retention, and workforce development.
Best for: Independent California restaurant operators.
Take Action: Explore the Restaurants Care Resilience Fund
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
Small Business Development Centers
While the SBA does not directly fund leadership training, many Small Business Development Centers provide free consulting and help businesses identify workforce grants, training incentives, and regional funding opportunities.
Best for: Small and independent hospitality businesses seeking funding guidance.
Take Action: Find your local Small Business Development Center
Leadership Development Is an Investment, Not an Expense
Developing managers strengthens every part of the business. Better leaders improve communication, increase retention, create clearer career paths, and build more resilient teams.
Many employers assume leadership training is cost prohibitive. In reality, federal, state, and local funding programs can significantly reduce the investment required.
If you'd like us to consider adding a grant or workforce funding program that your organization has successfully leveraged to develop managers, please email us at [email protected].
