Chris Holman welcomed back LEO Director Susan Corbin with Michigan’s Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity.

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity(LEO) just opened applications for Cycle 2 of the FY25 Going PRO Talent Fund—a key program helping Michigan employers train, upskill and retain workers for high-demand careers.

Chris had several questions for Susan in this conversation:

What is the Going PRO Talent Fund, and what kind of support does it offer to Michigan businesses and workers?

How does the fund help strengthen Michigan’s workforce and support employers looking to grow and retain skilled talent?

Since the program’s launch, Going PRO has supported more than 225,000 workers and awarded $302 million in grants to 7,480 businesses. What kinds of outcomes are you seeing, and what does that mean for Michigan’s workforce and economy long-term?

Going PRO is part of LEO’s All-Access Michigan approach. Can you talk about how the program is helping remove barriers and create more equitable pathways to good-paying, secure jobs across the state?

$16M in Going PRO Talent Fund Grants Available to Help Michigan Businesses Grow, Retain Workforce

Going PRO Talent Fund has supported more than 175,000 Michigan workers and over 7,100 businesses

LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) announced today that approximately $16 million in funding is available for cycle 2 of the Going PRO Talent Fund. Michigan employers have until May 2, 2025, to apply for funding to help train, develop and retain current and newly hired employees in high-demand, high-skill positions.

Since its inception in 2014, the Going PRO Talent Fund has provided training for more than 175,000 Michigan workers and supported over 7,100 businesses. The fund covers a variety of employer-driven training programs, including classroom instruction, on-the-job training for new employees and Registered Apprenticeships that lead to industry-recognized credentials. Workers who complete training supported by the Talent Fund see an average hourly wage increase of 7.2%

“The Going PRO Talent Fund is strengthening our economy and workforce by creating more opportunities for both workers and employers to make it here in Michigan,” saidSusan Corbin, director of LEO. “The fund is opening doors to higher-paying, more secure jobs for Michiganders while giving our businesses the talent they need to grow and compete.”

Employers that participate in the Going PRO Talent Fund have the flexibility to design training programs that fit their business needs. These programs are tailored to specific industries and sectors, ensuring workers are prepared for the skills and tasks required by employers. Eligible training must be short-term, fill an employer-identified talent need, and result in an industry-recognized credential.

“Michigan’s economy relies on a strong and skilled workforce, and the Going PROTalent Fund is one of the most effective tools we have to support both workers and businesses,” said Stephanie Beckhorn, deputy director of LEO’s Office of Employment and Training. “At LEO, we remain committed to investing in our workforce, removing barriers and creating opportunities that strengthen Michigan’s economy.”

Grants through the Going PRO Talent Fund are awarded in partnership with Michigan Works! agencies. Employers are encouraged to work closely with their local Michigan Works! Service Center to identify key training needs and develop customized plans to fill workforce gaps. All training programs must result in industry-recognized credentials that enhance workforce mobility and flexibility.

“Investing in employee training is investing in the future of the business,” said Jody Kerbyson, chief executive officer of GST Michigan Works! “The Going PRO Talent Fund allows employers to upskill their workforce, enhance productivity, and drive long-term success. We are thrilled to be able to come alongside so many businesses in our region to build quality training programs that will help drive their company forward while providing their employees with the skills they need to excel and advance on the job.”

The Going PRO Talent Fund directly aligns with the goals of Michigan’s first-ever Statewide Workforce Plan to expand career opportunities, strengthen Michigan’s workforce and support employers. Recognizing the program’s ongoing impact, Governor Whitmer included $54.8 million in her FY26 executive budget recommendation to continue these job training grants for current and new employees in high-demand, skilled trades industries.

The Going PRO Talent Fund is a key part of LEO’s broader All-Access Michigan approach, designed to remove barriers and provide opportunities for both businesses and workers. Research shows that Michigan provides employment services to more participants than any other state in the Midwest and is #3 in the nation for helping adults get employed.

Applications close at 5:00 p.m. EDT on May 2, 2025. Businesses interested in applying should contact their local Michigan Works! Service Center. Information can be found at Michigan.gov/MichiganWorks.

To learn more about the Going PRO Talent Fund and its impact, visit Michigan.gov/TalentFund.

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