Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)


The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is designed to help jobseekers access employment, education, training, and support services to succeed in the labor market and to match employers with the skilled workers they need to compete in the global economy.

WIOA is a federal program administered in South Carolina through the Department of Employment and Workforce (SCDEW) and the 12 Local Workforce Development Areas (LWDAs) throughout the state.
The State Workforce Development Board, a statewide board comprised of business owners, state government officials, educators and private citizens appointed by the Governor, guides policy for all WIOA-funded programs. WIOA programs help businesses meet their needs for skilled workers and provide individuals with access to training that helps them prepare for work. WIOA Title I consists of the Adult, Dislocated Worker, and Youth funding streams.

South Carolina is aligned into 12 LWDAs with SC Works Centers, located throughout the state, designed to provide a full range of assistance to jobseekers under one roof. WIOA programs are delivered through the LWDAs at your local center

WIOA services may include:
  • Financial Assistance may be provided for tuition, books, and other support services depending on local area policy, eligibility, and need.
  • Training and Supportive Services may include:
    • Occupational Skills Training
    • On-the-job training
    • Incumbent Worker Training
    • Skills Upgrading
    • Entrepreneurial Skills Training
    • Other Training
  • Case Management may include guidance and counseling, career exploration to identify careers that are growing and paying well, and finding appropriate training providers to identify quality and value of education for the following areas:
    • Financial Literacy
    • Basic Skills Remediation
    • Work Ready Assessment
    • Work Experiences
    • Training
    • Supportive Services



For information about specific services available in your area, please contact your local SC Works Center.





Please Note: This program does not cover unemployment insurance claims. The SC DEW Unemployment Insurance Hotline is 866-831-1724.