The federally funded award is part of the Transformation Grants program administered by the PTP, a regional economic development organization representing 12 counties in the Piedmont Triad of central North Carolina. The PTP is the lead organization for the U.S. Department of Labor-funded “Workforce Innovation in Regional Economics Development” initiative.

PTP officials announced the grants this week. The Elon Academy’s program, The Business Partner Program, was one of five projects to receive funding.

The Business Partner Program includes workshops to prepare students for paid internships with local businesses, a social skills program to ensure student awareness of appropriate workplace behavior, field trips to explore potential career opportunities, and a mentoring program to provide participants with role models and advocates in the business community.

“Through the Transformation Grant, the Elon Academy will be able to provide these bright students with opportunities to learn about the economic benefits and job opportunities in the Triad, while providing them with hands-on learning opportunities to become future leaders of the region,” said Darris Means, assistant director of student life and leadership development at the university.