Employers awarded $10.4M to strengthen workforce

HealthManufacturingConstructionTechAgriculture

Dec 9

175 businesses throughout the region have been awarded a total of $10,428,817 through the Going PRO Talent Fund to help train, develop and retain more than 5,171 workers, including 2,001 new hires, 977 apprentices, and 2,193 incumbent workers. An additional 17 businesses have pending awards totaling $984,865. The awards will provide critical training resources across various industries, including agribusiness, healthcare, manufacturing and construction, which also includes mobility, energy and infrastructure.

"The Going PRO Talent Fund is a game-changer for both employers and employees," said Angie Barksdale, Chief Operating Officer, West Michigan Works!. "For businesses, it supports talent attraction, development and retention that drives sustainable growth, while employees gain invaluable skills and certifications that progresses their careers and earning potential."

In total, 85 manufacturing companies received awards, alongside 39 construction firms, 33 healthcare organizations, eight tech companies, and seven agribusinesses – along with three employers outside of those categories.

Geographically, the awards impact businesses across the region, with Kent County having 68 recipients, followed by Ottawa County with 41. Muskegon County has 13 awards, while Allegan County has 14. Barry and Ionia counties each have two business who are benefiting and Montcalm County has three.

RecogNation, a West Michigan-based technology platform specializing in employee recognition and gifting software, is an example of how the Going PRO Talent Fund supports workforce development. The organization has used its 2024 grant to provide nine unique training opportunities that would otherwise not have been possible.

"As technology evolves rapidly, employees and businesses can quickly feel left behind on the latest advancements and security threats," said Tricia Huizinga, Human Resources Vice President, RecogNation. "Our employees are always trying to keep their coding and development skills current, and the rising cost of development training adds to the challenge. These training courses enhanced our organization through educational growth and boosted employee retention."

Eligible Going PRO Talent Fund Cycle 1 training will occur between January 1 and December 31, 2025. Working with a business solutions representative at West Michigan Works! makes it easy to apply for the Going PRO Talent Fund. Interested employers are encouraged to prepare for Cycle 2, opening in spring 2025. For more information, visit https://www.westmiworks.org/employers/going-pro-talent-fund/.