Application Window Open September 18 through October 6 — Don ’ t Delay !
10 MiMfg Magazine September 2017
Apply Now for Statewide Talent Funds
Application Window Open September 18 through October 6 — Don ’ t Delay !
Is your talent search limited by available funding ? The Skilled Trades Training Fund ( STTF ) could be the solution you need . MMA has fought hard to add more funding for this vital resource — don ’ t miss out on your share of $ 29 million in employer grants !
What is the STTF ?
The Skilled Trades Training Fund is one of Michigan ’ s most successful programs to combat manufacturing ’ s talent crisis . Since Fiscal Year 2014 , more than 1,400 companies have received awards averaging nearly $ 34,000 to go toward talent development , improved productivity , and greater employee retention . The STTF provides creative , driven , future-focused manufacturers with the tools and talent to compete in a global economy .
Do I apply for the money directly ?
No , the Talent Investment Agency ( TIA ) grants the funds to employers through Michigan ’ s workforce system , commonly known as Michigan Works !
Michigan Works ! Agencies ( MWA ) Business Services staff conduct factfinding sessions with employers to assess their talent gaps , suitable training
providers and availability of federal funding sources . The MWA Business Services staff can then determine whether STTF grants would be appropriate to help close the skills gap .
During the application period , MWAs submit STTF applications to TIA on behalf of their partnering employer .
What is the application period ?
The application period for STTF grants opens September 18 and all applications must be submitted by your local MWA no later than October 6 .
The funding for Fiscal Year 2018 is limited . With hundreds of awards to disperse and potentially thousands of applications , the $ 29 million in employer grants will disappear quickly .
How do I connect with my local MWA ?
Manufacturers may only apply for STTF grants through their local MWA . Use this helpful guide on the Workforce Development Agency website to locate yours : www . michigan . gov / wda . 6
Did You Know …
• The $ 29,000,000 in employer STTF grants for Fiscal Year 2018 represents a significant increase from previous years
• $ 500 in additional dollars per trainee will be offered for employers hiring veterans ( learn more about the importance of veteran hiring on page 26 )
• Additional application points will be granted for projects located in Rising Tide Communities ( www . mirisingtide . org /)
• NEW FOR FISCAL YEAR 2017-2018 : Employers will now be able to apply throughout the year ( outside of regular application period ) for innovative collaborative proposals
Size of Companies Receiving STTF Awards
537 Awards 100 to 499 employees
173 Awards 500 or more employees
712 Awards Fewer than 100 employees
Program Statistics 2014-2017
• Number of companies receiving awards : 1,422
• Average amount of award : $ 33,938
• Average training cost per person : $ 995
Additional Resources
• See the Workforce Development Agency website ( www . michigan . gov / wda ) for essential resources