LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Michigan Works announced Tuesday its second and final round of application periods for businesses to apply for the Going PRO Talent Fund.
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“In the first cycle, our team helped secure $2.5 million in competitive grants from the State of Michigan’s Going PRO Talent Fund to help 33 local employers enhance their workforce,” said Mark O’Reilly, director of business solutions at Michigan Works Berrien, Cass, Van Buren, in a prepared statement. “There were four industries represented in the last cycle of awardees, which truly showcases that this unique grant opportunity can apply to a variety of sectors.”
Since 2014, the Going PRO Talent Fund has given more than $170 million to more than 5,000 Michigan employers, and is making more than $55 million available to Michigan employers for the Fiscal Year 2023, according to the Michigan Manufacturers Association. Funding can help offset the cost of classroom and customized training, on the job training, or apprenticeships.
“Our team will help you through every step of the process,” O’Reilly said in a prepared statement. “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 for 2023 and 2024. If Going PRO is not a fit for you, we provide many other services that can help your company grow.”
Roughly 60% of grants have been awarded to companies with fewer than 100 employees, while 31% of awards have been given to companies with between 100 to 499 employees. In the minority of groups receiving grants, less than 10% of awards were given to companies with 500 or more employees.
An FAQ page provided by the Going PRO Talent Fund indicates that if an application is denied in the first cycle, employers may apply in cycle 2 if not awarded a cycle 1 independent application; however, employers may have no more than one (1) independent award and one (1) Industry-led Collaborative (ILC) award, based on employer location.
Additionally, those concerned that if their award ending on Jan. 31, 2024, affects their eligibility for applying for a FY24 cycle 1 slot, awardees must complete training under a FY23 award by Jan. 31, 2024 according to the Going PRO Talent Fund. Though awardees that complete training under a FY23 award by June 30, 2024 may apply for a FY24 cycle 2 training spot.
The final cycle of applications for the Going PRO Talent Fund grant applications are open through 5 p.m. May 24, 2023.
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