Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity
Oct. 9, 2023
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, Oct. 9. These dollars help grow Michigan’s workforce and support residents’ access to good-paying, in-demand jobs.
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. Since the program’s launch, the Going PRO Talent Fund has provided training for approximately 175,000 Michigan workers and supported the needs of more than 6,000 businesses.
Going PRO Talent Fund helps local businesses secure the in-demand, high-skill talent they need to grow while giving local workers a clear path to high-wage careers that offer a better quality of life for themselves and their families.
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 and working with their local MWAs and other partners to develop an appropriate training plan. Training must fill a demonstrated talent need experienced by the employer and lead to a transferable, industry-recognized credential.
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 Michigan.gov/MichiganWorks.
The application period for the first award cycle ends Friday, Oct. 27 at 5 p.m. EST, and selected applicants will be announced in Dec. 2023. The second application cycle will open spring 2024.