LANSING — The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) announced June 27, more than 300 Michigan businesses will receive a combined $17.8 million from cycle 2 of the Going PRO Talent Fund (Talent Fund) to boost workforce development across the state. The Talent Fund provides businesses with the resources they need to train, develop and retain current and newly-hired employees. Including this awards cycle, the initiative has supported high-skill, in-demand job training for more than 210,000 Michiganders since its launch in 2014. 

Cycle 2 includes 365 awards granted to 356 employers. The Talent Fund will enable them to train nearly 10,000 Michiganders, including 3,144 new hires and 6,823 existing employees. The funding will also support 1,678 Registered Apprenticeships to grow the state’s skilled workforce and help Michigan navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing economic landscape. The Michigan Legislature approved $54.8 million for Going PRO Talent Fund for the fiscal year 2025 budget, allowing LEO to continue to equip businesses with talent retention and training resources.

“The Going PRO Talent Fund demonstrates Michigan’s commitment to growing our workforce and providing businesses with the resources they need to thrive and contribute to our economy," said LEO Director Susan Corbin. "This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration between the state, employers and local agencies working together to build a stronger, more resilient Michigan."

In the six-county region that Michigan Works! West Central represents, two businesses were awarded funds during cycle 2. They are Ludington-based FloraCraft; and Reed City-based Northern Star Home Enterprises LLC.

The Talent Fund continues to play a vital role in Michigan's economic development by investing in the skills and talents of its workforce. This initiative helps employers enhance their employees' skills, ensuring they remain competitive in today’s fast-paced and evolving job market. By providing financial assistance for training, the Talent Fund addresses the critical need for skilled workers across various industries, contributing to the overall economic growth and prosperity of the state.

The Talent Fund is part of LEO’s unique All-Access approach to solving complex workforce problems and improves economic outcomes across the state by addressing structural challenges and removing barriers preventing people and businesses from reaching their full potential.

"We are committed to empowering Michigan's workforce with the skills they need to thrive in today’s competitive job market," said Stephanie Beckhorn, director of LEO’s Office of Employment and Training. "The Going PRO Talent Fund is an essential resource that helps employers address their training needs and invest in their employees' professional growth. This initiative not only supports individual career advancement but also drives economic development.”

Success stories of the Talent Fund include businesses that have significantly improved their operational efficiency, productivity and employee retention rates through the skills development it supports. The Talent Fund also greatly benefits Michigan workers who, on average, see an increase of 9 percent in their hourly wages six months after completing training.

"The training supported by the Going PRO Talent Fund was transformative, not just for my career but for my perspective on manufacturing's potential impact on the world,” said David Pridmore, Training and Development Specialist at RoMan Manufacturing. “It's more than mastering technical skills; it's about being part of a bigger mission to innovate for a sustainable future. I feel empowered and valued, knowing that my work contributes to critical industries and helps set global standards in energy efficiency and productivity." 

The Talent Fund grants are awarded to employers through the Michigan Works! network. Participating employers play an integral role in defining their key training needs and working with their local Michigan Works! agency and other partners to develop an appropriate training plan. Training must fill a demonstrated talent need experienced by the employer and lead to a transferable, industry-recognized credential.

"The increased demand for Going PRO Talent Funds demonstrates how successful the program has proven to be for employers and employees alike,” said Northwest Michigan Works! Director Jessica Willis. “It serves as a critical tool for Michigan, ensuring businesses have the trained workforce needed for today's in-demand jobs. For employees, having the opportunity to learn a new skill set and earn a credential further solidifies the impact of the Going PRO Talent Fund. It truly is a meaningful investment that has real-life impactful outcomes for businesses and workers across the state."

The complete list of grant recipients and more information about the Going PRO Talent Fund can be found at Michigan.gov/TalentFund.