Equal Representation in Construction Apprenticeship (ERiCA) Grant

The Equal Representation in Construction Apprenticeship (ERiCA) Grant is transformative funding designed to increase equitable access to building and construction career pathways for women, non-binary individuals, and underrepresented populations in California. Administered by the California Department of Industrial Relations Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS), the ERiCA Grant is dedicated funding aimed at dismantling barriers that disproportionately prevent women from entering and thriving in the construction industry. DAS has awarded $26,169,217 in funds for the ERiCA Grant Program Year 2025-27 (PY 25-27). The grant performance period is June/July 2025 - June 30, 2027. This is the second round of the ERiCA grant. With the successful implementation of the first round of the grant, the DAS will continue its efforts to expand access to apprenticeship opportunities in construction for populations that are underrepresented. DAS awarded $25 million during the first round of the ERICA grant (PY 2023-2025) to improve access to training and employment opportunities for underserved populations in construction trades throughout the state, by providing supportive resources for childcare along with outreach to and community building among underserved populations. The second round of the ERiCA grant (PY 2025-2027) builds upon the successes of its first-round efforts, strengthening its commitment to building a construction workforce that mirrors California’s diversity.