States are further along than we think on short-term workforce credentials
When Lumina Foundation launched the FutureReady States initiative in 2025, we went in with more questions than answers.
As short-term credentials grow in popularity, states are stepping up to ensure they deliver real value. The new FutureReady States initiative supports 12 states in aligning education and workforce systems to identify, improve, and scale credentials of value, helping more adults gain meaningful opportunities in a fast-changing economy.
Read the news release: Lumina Foundation launches FutureReady States to better gauge workforce credential value »
Latest report
Lessons (So Far) From Lumina Foundation’s FutureReady States Initiative
We assess the 12 participating FutureReady States on their ability to strengthen short-term credential ecosystems so state investments in nondegree credentials produce clear economic and social returns. This report will inform states’ next-stage action plans around goals, quality frameworks, data strategies, and implementation priorities.
Learn MoreRelated News
FutureReady States
States see short-term credentials as key to long-term success
More than 1M short-term workforce credentialing programs are offered today, but little has been done to help adults identify which programs meet industry standards and lead to higher-paying jobs. That’s changing.
Lumina Foundation launches FutureReady States to better gauge workforce credential value
Twelve states will identify and support training policies that deliver real economic value for taxpayers and individuals.
Governor Ivey on Alabama's Bold Credentialing Vision
“Alabama has prioritized building a transparent, skills-based credentialing system that puts students, workers, and employers on the same page – and on the path to shared success. Our Alabama Credential Registry is proving that when you align talent with opportunity, everyone wins. I’m proud that Alabama is leading the way, and I applaud Lumina for challenging more states to follow suit.”
Kermit Kaleba on FutureReady States
States are spending billions
States Are spending billions on short-term credential degrees, but are they successful?
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0:41 What we want to learn from states
Here's what we hope to learn from FutureReady States.
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0:51 Attainment for what?
By 2040, 75 percent of the U.S. labor force will have college degrees or other credentials of value leading to economic prosperity.
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FutureReady States
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Lessons from Lumina Foundation’s FutureReady States Initiative
fundsforNGOs News - Grants and Resources for Sustainability | Mar 11, 2026
Lumina Foundation’s FutureReady States (FRS) initiative brings together a cohort of states working to strengthen short-term credential ecosystems and ensure that state investments in nondegree crede...
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Mississippi Partners with Lumina Foundation to Launch FutureReady States
Accelerate MS
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New Push to Help States Size Up Fast-Track Credentials
Work Shift | Jul 17, 2025
A new project backed by the Lumina Foundation seeks to help 12 states better gauge the value of short-term credentials.