Going PRO Talent Fund

What is the application process for employers?: The Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity-Workforce Development (LEO-WD) awards funds to employers through Michigan Works! Agencies (MWA). MWA Business Services staff conduct fact-finding sessions with employers to assess their talent skill gaps, suitable training providers and availability of federal funding sources. If they determine Talent Fund awards are appropriate, they grant the employers access to a convenient online application submission process. Interested employers should engage their local MWA early to allow ample time to complete the fact-finding process to ensure applications are submitted in time for review prior to established annual deadlines.

Which employees are eligible to participate?: Employees, current or new, must be a permanent, full-time employee of the employer when the approved training begins, work primarily in Michigan for whom the employer pays all applicable taxes to the State of Michigan, 18 years of age or older, and a citizen or legally authorized to work in the U.S.

What kind of training programs are approved as part of this program?: All training must fill a demonstrated talent need experienced by the employer, be short term and lead to a credential for a skill that is transferable and recognized by industry. The amount requested cannot exceed $2,000 per person or $3,500 per U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) Registered Apprentice. It must also be classroom or customized training, new employee on-the-job training, or training for USDOL Registered Apprentices. At Frontline Training Solutions, we most often work with employers to offer Leadership and Project Management training. Visit here to see a full list of approved training topics.

What support are employers expected to provide?: Employers play an integral role in defining their key training needs, then work with the local MWA and other partners to develop an appropriate, realistic training plan. Among other responsibilities, employers are expected to sign and adhere to a contract/training agreement with the MWA outlining their role and responsibilities, provide cash or in-kind contribution/leverage in support of the training project, and use Pure Michigan Talent Connect (MiTalent.org) and Michigan Works! to recruit for job openings.

Why was the Talent Fund developed?: The Talent Fund brings many benefits to Michigan’s employers and employees. The Talent Fund helps ensure Michigan’s employers have the talent they need to compete and grow, while also ensuring individuals have the skills they need for in- demand jobs. The Talent Fund also expands and improves employees’ skills and develops their opportunities for growth or promotion within the company and for economic advancement and addresses skills shortages by reskilling and upskilling Michigan workers based on employers’ needs. It also supports an increase in credentials, certificates and degrees through employer- responsive training that enhances talent attraction, productivity and retention.

How do I get started?: The Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity – Workforce Development awards funds to employers through Michigan’s workforce system, commonly known as Michigan Works! Agencies (MWA). MWA Business Services staff conduct fact-finding sessions with employers to assess their talent skill gaps, suitable training providers, and availability of federal funding sources. The MWA Business Services staff then determines whether Talent Fund awards are appropriate to help close the skills gap, and grant employers access to a convenient online application submission process. Interested employers should contact their local Michigan Works! representative early to allow ample time for the fact finding process to ensure applications are completed in time for review.