The Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD) is pleased to announce the Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant application is now open for the 2025-2026 academic year with increased funding to provide more Missourians opportunities for postsecondary education and training.
The Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant offers financial aid to eligible adult students to pursue a certificate, degree, or industry-recognized credential in a high-demand industry. Missouri’s budget for Fiscal Year 2026, signed by Governor Mike Kehoe on June 30, included a $2 million increase in funding for the program to equip more adults with the education and skills needed to support Missouri’s workforce.
“The Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant is a fast-growing initiative that opens financial pathways for adult learners pursuing higher education and training,” said Dr. Bennett Boggs, Commissioner of the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development. “Our department is grateful to Governor Kehoe and the Missouri General Assembly for their support in continuing to expand the program’s impact and increase access to prosperous careers that will support Missouri’s families and communities.”
Fast Track can provide eligible students with the funding to fully cover tuition and fees when combined with other governmental financial aid. Individuals who may be eligible for Fast Track include those who have not earned a bachelor’s degree, are at least 25 years old or have not been enrolled in any school within the last two years, and who meet certain program and income requirements.
Fast Track has helped thousands of students pay for education and training in high-demand industries like health care, computer science, transportation, and business/accounting since the program began in 2019. During the 2023-2024 academic year, Fast Track provided more than 1,200 students with an average award of $4,250.
Individuals can apply for the Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant through the MDHEWD State Financial Aid Portal. Applications must be submitted to MDHEWD no later than May 15, 2026 to be considered for the 2025-2026 academic year.
For more information about Fast Track, including eligibility requirements and a list of participating institutions and programs, visit the MDHEWD website.