A popular program that assists private businesses in training and developing their employees is coming back.
Michigan Works! announces that it’s once again Going Pro Season in southwest Michigan! Employers will be eligible for the popular Going Pro progra once again m, a competitive grant that provides funds to local companies for training, developing, and in some cases retaining employees.
The world of work is changing – new processes, faster technology, learning new equipment and machinery, and southwest Michigan businesses need to remain competitive. This is the opportunity to access grant funding to help make sure your team comes out on top. Whether it’s building the skills of your workforce, improving your culture, or retaining your people, Michigan Works! wants to help your team win.
“This is a great opportunity for employers in many different sectors,” said Mark O’Reilly, Director of Business Solutions at Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren. “This funding has helped manufacturers, wineries, healthcare providers, breweries, gyms, coffee shops, and many other industries. Our team will help you through every step of the process. If you’re eligible, we will work closely with you to complete your application and determine trainings that would fit your needs. If you’re on the fence about it, reach out and we can talk about your training and hiring plans for 2023. If Going Pro is not a fit for you, we provide many other services that can help your company grow.”
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 or existing employee on a new process. Apprenticeships are also supported through Going Pro funds.
This past year, 64 companies in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties were awarded funds to hire and train 2,102 employees. There were nine different sectors to receive the funding. Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren was awarded a total of $2.5 million funds. The average amount of money awarded to regional employers was $39,717.
Berrien County employers who would like to submit an application for Going Pro funds, contact Paul Brohman at (269) 281-1823 or BrohmanP@miworks.org. Cass or Van Buren County employers who would like to apply, contact Michael Mompremier at (269) 757-3967 or MompremierM@miworks.org. The application period runs from November 21 to December 9. For more information about Going Pro, visit 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.
