The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) has awarded more than $6 million in FY 2026 Cycle 2 Going PRO Talent Fund grants to 121 businesses to support the training of 2,797 Michigan workers, including $126,451 to four businesses in the Upper Peninsula.
The U.P. investment will support the training of 27 current employees and 29 new hires – including 12 Registered Apprentices – in high-demand, skilled positions.
Including this grant cycle, the Going PRO Talent Fund has awarded more than $330 million to support 9,010 businesses since its launch in 2014, helping 239,389 Michigan workers train, upskill or advance in high-skill careers.
“Employers across Michigan are facing evolving workforce needs, and the Going PRO Talent Fund helps them respond with targeted, industry-driven training solutions,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. “These grants help workers gain valuable skills and credentials while providing employers with the talent they need to grow, compete and succeed in Michigan’s economy.”
The Talent Fund helps local businesses access skilled talent while offering Michigan workers a clear pathway to high-wage, high-demand careers that improve quality of life. Workers who complete training supported by the Talent Fund see an average hourly wage increase of 6.2%.
“Michigan’s economic success depends on connecting people to opportunity and helping businesses build the skilled workforce they need,” said LEO Workforce Development Director Krista Johnson. “Together, these investments are strengthening communities and supporting long-term growth across our state.”
The Going PRO Talent Fund supports a range of employer-led training options, including classroom instruction, on-the-job training for new employees and Registered Apprenticeships that lead to industry-recognized credentials.
Grants through the Going PRO Talent Fund are awarded in partnership with Michigan Works! Agencies.
“Our focus is on helping employers retain talent, build skills and grow their workforce,” said Debb Brunell, CEO of Upper Peninsula Michigan Works!. “Our Business Services team has a proven record of helping companies navigate Michigan’s competitive funding opportunities to secure valuable workforce investments that meet their needs. We encourage all employers to take advantage of the expertise and resources available through our team at U.P. Michigan Works!.”
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.
A full list of Going PRO Talent Fund Cycle 2 award recipients and additional information about the grant program is available online at Michigan.gov/TalentFund.
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