BIG RAPIDS — Michigan Works! West Central is inviting area businesses to apply for the semi-annual Going PRO Talent Fund, now open through Oct. 30.
Per an Oct. 15 news release, an estimated $29 million is expected to be awarded statewide through the fall grant cycle, with businesses eligible for up to $2,000 per employee in training reimbursement and up to $3,500 per U.S. Department of Labor-registered apprentice.
The program aims to address workforce needs by funding industry-recognized certifications that strengthen technical skills across sectors. Employers that have not received Going PRO funding in the past two fiscal years will receive additional consideration during the application process.
“The Going PRO Talent Fund is one of the most practical and impactful ways employers can invest in their team,” said Shelly Keene, executive director of Michigan Works! West Central. “By funding credentials that matter in today’s job market, we simultaneously boost employee retention, help families achieve stability and provide businesses with the skilled workforce they need to expand and compete.”
Since the program — formerly known as the Skilled Trades Training Fund — began in 2014, Michigan Works! West Central has helped secure more than $5.58 million in training funds for 70 local employers, supporting skill development for more than 7,000 workers and 240 registered apprentices.
Statewide, the initiative has assisted nearly 8,500 businesses and trained more than 230,000 workers. The fund also supports Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Sixty by 30 initiative, which seeks to ensure that 60% of working-age adults hold a certificate or college degree by 2030.
Keene encouraged businesses to take advantage of the opportunity, saying the fund “removes the heavy financial burden of training” while improving workforce retention and business growth.
Employers interested in applying can contact the Michigan Works! West Central Business Services team or visit MWWC.org/GoingPRO for assistance. All applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. Oct. 30.
