Going PRO Talent Fund awards for Michigan businesses focused on growing talent and helping employees gain credentials
This press release was produced and distributed by the State of Michigan.
LANSING, Mich. — Michigan employers looking to take advantage of the Going PRO Talent Fund program will be able to apply for a share of approximately $50 million in competitive training awards over the course of two application cycles starting Monday, November 21. Going PRO Talent Fund helps ensure employers have the talent they need to grow and stay competitive by providing awards to assist in training, developing and retaining current and newly hired employees. Training must fill a demonstrated talent need experienced by the employer and lead to a transferable, industry-recognized credential.
“We are committed to expanding opportunity for Michiganders, ensuring they have a path to good-paying jobs and making sure businesses can develop the talent they need to compete in the global economy,” said Susan Corbin, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) Director. “Since the program’s launch, Going PRO Talent Fund has provided training for 145,000 Michigan workers, supporting the needs of more than 5,000 businesses.”
This year, the application process includes increased transparency for applicants – allowing them to see their scores prior to submitting an application and make adjustments as needed.
“The streamlined application process will help employers understand their likelihood of receiving funding prior to submitting,” said Stephanie Beckhorn, Director of LEO’s Office of Employment and Training. “The increased transparency is just one way we’re working with our partners to continue to improve the application process.”
Going PRO Talent Fund grants are awarded to employers through the Michigan Works! network (MWAs). Participating employers play an integral role in defining their key training needs, then working with their local MWAs and other partners to develop an appropriate training plan.
“The Going PRO Talent Fund remains an essential tool to help Michigan businesses meet the growing demand for skilled workers, while offering individuals an opportunity to obtain industry-recognized credentials and support upward economic mobility across the state,” said Ryan Hundt, CEO, Michigan Works! Association.
Among other responsibilities, employers who apply for Going PRO Talent Funds are expected to participate in the planning and designing of the training project and use Pure Michigan Talent Connect (MiTalent.org) and their local MWAs to recruit for job openings.
Businesses interested in learning more or applying for funding should contact their local Michigan Works! Service Center. Contact information may be found at MichiganWorks.org.
The application period for the first award cycle ends Monday, Dec. 12, at noon Eastern Standard Time, and selected applicants will be announced in January 2023. The second application cycle will open in late spring 2023.
To learn more about the Going PRO Talent Fund, visit Michigan.gov/TalentFund.
The Governor’s Sixty by 30 program aims to help 60% of working-age Michiganders achieve a certificate or postsecondary degree by 2030. Find out more at Sixtyby30.org.
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