Primed to train your staff but lack funds to get it done?
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EmailIt’s that time of the year again. Skilled Trades Training Fund is available this fall.
Continuing for the fourth year, the state of Michigan has supported a fund called Skilled Trades Training Fund (STTF). This fund was established to ensure Michigan’s employers have access to the talent they need to compete and grow and individuals have the skills they need for in-demand jobs. A struggle every company faces is having a trained and ready workforce to fill in-demand positions. The STTF provides competitive awards for employer responsive-training that enhances talent, productivity and employment retention, while increasing the quality and competitiveness of Michigan’s businesses.
The state has partnered with Michigan Works!, Michigan Economic Department Corporation, educational organizations and economic development agencies to help identify business that could benefit from the STTF. Businesses who express the need for skilled workers can apply for these lucrative funds to train the talented workers they desire. The STTF ensures Michigan’s employers have access to the talent they need to compete and grow and individuals have the skills they need for in-demand jobs.
Michigan State University Extension partner Northern Lakes Economic Alliance (NLEA) has been helping companies in their region apply for funding. The NLEA serves four counties: Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan and Emmet. In 2015, the NLEA region had ten companies awarded $255,985 through the Skilled Trades Training Grant program (STTF). This provided training for 187 current employees and 82 new employees. These training funds will help build a skilled workforce and keep the northern Michigan region competitive.
The funds are limited and competition is stiff. Applications can be submitted starting mid-September. If your company is interested in learning more about future opportunities for the skilled trades training funds, contact the NLEA at 231-582-6482 or your local Michigan Works! office.
“Michigan State University Extension has had a unique relationship with the regional economic development organization Northern Lakes Economic Alliance (NLEA) for more than 20 years. Recognizing the strength of combining resources, this partnership focuses on economic development, entrepreneurship growth and community infrastructure throughout a four-county region in the northwest Lower Peninsula, specifically Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan and Emmet counties. As a result, the NLEA utilizes resources offered through MSU Extension as it provides leadership to state-wide programs sponsored by MSU Extension.”
