NASHVILLE (AP) — Gov. Bill Haslam has announced a new statewide initiative to help residents get more education and training for jobs that are available in their communities.

Haslam says the Tennessee Higher Education Commission is accepting applications from partnerships across the state for $10 million in grants from the Labor Education Alignment Program. Applicants must represent a partnership between a local economic development agency, a community college, the local school district and at least two employers.

The program is part of Haslam's "Drive to 55" campaign to help residents get an education or other training beyond high school. He says that will allow them to "get better jobs and create better lives."

The competition for grant money is open through Nov. 17. Applicants can apply for up to $1 million.