Sarasota-Bradenton, Florida (July 8, 2025) – CareerEdge, the workforce development initiative led by the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, has been awarded a substantial $150,000 grant from Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast). This generous grant, made possible through the Maria Haber Charitable Fund, further solidifies the longstanding partnership between CareerEdge and Gulf Coast. As one of CareerEdge's founding funders, Gulf Coast has continuously played an active role in advancing their mission.

The grant will support CareerEdge Funders Collaborative's initiatives in providing an exceptional labor force to growing industries by leveraging community assets and forming high-performing workforce partnerships. CareerEdge will utilize the grant to implement demand-driven strategies, including Fast-Track training programs, on-the-job training, internship reimbursement programs, and employer funding to upskill employees.

“CareerEdge is proud to continue its longstanding funding partnership with Gulf Coast Community Foundation,” said Dan Sidler, Vice President of CareerEdge & Economic Development. “This investment directly fuels high-impact workforce programs that address critical skills gaps for local employers, while empowering individuals to gain in-demand training, launch meaningful careers, and improve their long-term financial stability. The ripple effects of this support are felt across the region—in businesses, in households, and throughout our economy.”

Since its inception in 2010, CareerEdge and its employer partners have invested $18.5 million, providing training for 8,141 workers, resulting in 1,646 promotions, 5,210 raises, and $42.1 million in workers’ aggregate annual earnings. In 2024 alone, CareerEdge and partners invested $1.3 million in workforce development, resulting in 486 workers trained, $2.1 million in added wages, created 117 new jobs, provided 213 new employment opportunities, and 594 new certifications were earned.