Mid-Carolina Workforce Development Board seeks businesses to participate in 2026 “My Future So Bright” & NextGen Summer Work Program

By Staff Report, posted Feb 3, 2026 on BizFayetteville.com

Graphic courtesy of Mid-Carolina Development Board

The Mid-Carolina Workforce Development Board is actively seeking local businesses to participate in the MFSB & NextGen Summer Work Program – a valuable resource to help supplement a business’s summer staffing needs while investing in the area’s future workforce.

By engaging in this partnership, businesses can:

Access motivated young workers at no direct cost to their business. Wages are funded through federal grants.
Help develop Cumberland County’s future workforce by providing meaningful, hands-on work experience.
Address seasonal staffing challenges and maintain efficiency during peak summer months.
Strengthen their connection to the community by supporting a program that benefits both youth and local employers.

Qualified youth aged 15+ are placed at approved worksites, including private businesses. The program runs for approximately nine weeks, beginning June 8, 2026. Participants earn $15 per hour, fully funded by the program. Businesses provide supervision, a supportive environment and meaningful job tasks.

"Mid-Carolina Workforce Development Board is proud to connect employers with the talent of tomorrow. The MFSB & NextGen Summer Work Program extends beyond traditional summer employment by building confidence, strengthening essential skills, and creating clear career pathways for youth while simultaneously supporting the workforce needs of local businesses,” shared ARPA & NextGen Compliance Monitor Jennifer McArthur. “By engaging 100 local employers, we will expand opportunities, strengthen regional talent pipelines, and cultivate the next generation of skilled workers to drive long-term economic growth across our region."

Interested businesses are encouraged to complete the Business Interest Form.

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