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The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) just dropped some big news for anyone interested in strengthening local schools: applications are now open for the Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program (RTAP) Grant. This isn’t just another funding opportunity—it’s a chance to help shape Minnesota’s teacher workforce by connecting learning directly to the classroom.
So, what’s the RTAP Grant all about? It’s designed to help school districts across the state set up, run, and expand teacher apprenticeship programs. The RTAP follows an earn-and-learn model, so apprentices get real classroom experience while also receiving targeted instruction. When they finish, participants walk away with a nationally recognized credential and the skills needed to thrive in teaching careers that matter.
Grant Timeline and Details
- Application Opens: September 2, 2025
- Application Deadline: September 26, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. CDT
- Total Funding Available: Up to $6.65 million (allocated by the Minnesota Legislature in 2025)
- Maximum Award: $3,000,000 over two years
- Grant Period: January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2027
- Eligible Projects: Creating and expanding teacher apprenticeship programs and joint apprenticeship training committees statewide
If you’re thinking about applying, the DLI is hosting webinars on September 4 and September 11 to walk folks through the application process. Plus, the last day to submit questions is September 19, and grant recipients will be announced in November.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include employers, employer associations, and apprenticeship committees who want to build or grow registered teacher apprenticeship programs in Minnesota’s K-12 schools. The grant is especially focused on projects that serve diverse, local talent and meet the requirements outlined in Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 178.
Why This Matters
We all know teacher shortages are hitting districts hard, and Minnesota’s RTAP initiative is a practical way to tackle the problem. By opening up a sustainable, hands-on pathway into teaching—especially for local folks who want to make a difference—the state is setting up future educators for success and helping schools build strong, long-term pipelines.
How Craft Education Can Help
At Craft Education, we’re all about closing the gaps between learning and work. We’ve teamed up with dozens of school districts to launch and grow Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Programs, and our approach is simple: connect systems, reduce admin headaches, and keep the focus on real outcomes for learners.
Here’s what we offer:
- Grant writing support to help your application stand out
- Implementation services to get your program up and running smoothly
- Free data management software for tracking apprenticeships, outcomes, and reporting requirements
Our platform isn’t just about collecting data—it’s about giving schools, districts, and partners the clarity to act, the alignment to move forward, and the confidence that every learner’s progress is visible and measurable. Whether you’re dealing with spreadsheets, compliance challenges, or just trying to show accreditors what’s working, Craft is here to make things easier.
This is a big moment for Minnesota schools to build a future-ready teacher workforce and tap into serious state funding.
If you want to learn more about how Craft Education can support your application and program development, reach out to robert.owens@crafteducation.com.
Let’s connect the dots and make teacher preparation work for everyone.
