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Going PRO Talent Fund

The Going PRO Talent Fund (GPTF) makes awards to employers to assist in training, developing and retaining current and newly hired employees. Training funded by the Talent Fund must be short-term and fill a demonstrated talent need experienced by the employer. Training must lead to a credential for a skill that is transferable and recognized by industry.

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.

Going PRO Talent Fund FAQs

Which employees are eligible to participate?

Permanent, full-time employees

Employees that work primarily in Michigan, and for whom the employer pays all applicable taxes to the State of Michigan

18 years of age or older

Citizen or legally authorized to work

The Talent Fund brings many benefits to Michigan’s employers and employees:

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.

Expands and improves employees’ skills and develops their opportunities for growth or promotion within the company and for economic advancement.

Addresses skills shortages by reskilling and upskilling Michigan workers based on employers’ needs.

Supports an increase in credentials, certificates and degrees through employer responsive training that enhances talent attraction, productivity and retention.

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) Apprentice. Click below for more information and handouts from USDOL about GPTF.

Interested in Going PRO Talent Fund?

For more information fill out the form below

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Past Events

GPTF 2023 Employer Orientations Recording