MICHIGAN WORKS! ANNOUNCES GOING PRO SEASON
BENTON HARBOR, Mich.- Michigan Works! announced applications open today, April 22 for the popular Going PRO Talent Fund. This competitive grant opportunity provides funds to local companies for training, developing, and in some cases retaining employees.
With technology changing by the day, new equipment and machinery launching across the country and beyond, and more complex systems to work around- it’s important to ensure southwest Michigan businesses remain competitive. This grant funding opportunity will allow employers to do just that. Whether it’s building the skills of your workforce, improving your culture, or retaining your people, Michigan Works! wants to help your team win.
“During the first application period in 2024, our team helped secure a total of $2.9 million in competitive grants from the State of Michigan’s Going PRO Talent Fund to help 39 local employers enhance their workforce.,” said Mark O’Reilly, Director of Business Solutions at Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren. “There were six industries represented among the awardees, which truly showcases that this unique grant opportunity can apply to a variety of sectors.”
Going PRO allows employers to apply for funds to train new and existing employees. The types of training programs eligible for funding include classroom training, which prepares individuals with the skill set required to meet the employer's needs and diversify the skill sets of current employees. Employers can also receive onsite job training reimbursement for wages paid while training a new employee on a new process. Apprenticeships are also supported through Going PRO funds.
O’Reilly encourages employers in Berrien, Cass, or Van Buren counties to reach out to his team for assistance. “Our team will help you through every step of the process. If you’re eligible, we will work closely with you to determine training that would fit your company needs and complete your application. If you’re on the fence about it, reach out and we can talk about your training and hiring plans. If Going PRO is not a fit for you, we provide many other services that can help your company grow,” he added.
The Going PRO Talent Fund grant applications will be open from Monday, April 22 through Friday, May 10 at 5:00 PM. Employers are encouraged to reach out to:
- Berrien County: Michael Mompremier at MompremierM@miworks.org
- Cass and Van Buren Counties: Jennifer Leich at LeichJ@miworks.org
- Hospitality and Small Business: Paul Panicucci at PanicucciP@miworks.org
For more information about Going PRO, visit Michigan.gov or MiWorks.org/Training-Funds.
Michigan Works! of Berrien, Cass, Van specializes in educating, training, and employing individuals of all ages. We work with local businesses to find out what keeps them up at night and help them tackle the most pressing challenges they may face, including attracting and retaining talent. For more information, visit www.miworks.org.
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Mary Morphey Chief Marketing Officer
- April 22, 2024
- (269) 927-1064 x1143
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