22 MiMfg Magazine July / August 2022
Gearing Up for the Going PRO Talent Fund : Michigan ’ s # 1 Talent Funding Source
Talent — locating , training and retaining — remains a top business challenge for manufacturers and the Going PRO Talent Fund has been a critical tool since 2014 . More than $ 55 million will be available to Michigan employers for Fiscal Year 2023 , which begins 10 / 1 / 22 .
What is the Going PRO Talent Fund ?
The Going PRO Talent Fund remains one of the state ’ s most effective resources to combat manufacturing ’ s talent crisis . Funds are awarded to employers to assist with short-term training that fills a demonstrated talent need for both new and incumbent employees .
How Does My Company Apply ?
The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity awards funds to employers through Michigan ’ s workforce system , commonly known as the Michigan Works ! network . Michigan Works ! Business Services staff conduct fact-finding sessions with employers to assess their talent and skill gaps , suitable training providers and availability of federal funding sources . Employers then gain access through Michigan Works ! to apply for funds through a new online application submission process . 6
Dave Worthams is MMA ’ s Director of Employment Policy . Dave works to expand funding for Going PRO Talent Fund through the annual appropriations process and works with state regulators on the regulatory requirements of the program . He may be reached at 517-487-8511 or worthams @ mimfg . org .
Bill Rayl is MMA ’ s Executive Director of Workforce Solutions . Bill has extensive experience in helping manufacturers collaborate with training providers , including working with Michigan Works ! on successful applications for Going PRO Talent Fund dollars . He may be reached at 517-487-8513 or rayl @ mimfg . org .
Did You Know ..?
• Going PRO funds can be used for on-the-job training cost reimbursement in addition to classroom / customized training
• Up to $ 1,500 per trainee is available via Going PRO for classroom and on-the-job training , with up to $ 3,000 available per first-year USDOL Registered Apprentice
• Since its inception , the Going PRO Talent Fund has directly funded more than $ 100 million toward talent and workforce development programs .
Program Statistics 2014-2022
• Total Number of Awards : 5,300
• Average Award Amount : $ 32,479
• Average Training Cost Per Person : $ 1,075
Get More ! Join MMA ’ s Dave Worthams for a webinar on 8 / 12 / 22 with Express Employment Professionals to answer all your Going PRO Talent Fund questions .
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