Going PRO Talent Fund

The Going PRO Talent Fund is a workforce development grant program administered by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity through its Workforce Development division. The program is designed to support Michigan employers by providing financial assistance to train, develop, and retain both current and newly hired employees. It operates through the state’s workforce system, specifically Michigan Works! Agencies, which serve as intermediaries between the state and participating employers. The initiative reflects a broader state strategy to strengthen the workforce, address skills gaps, and ensure that employers have access to a qualified and competitive labor pool. The primary purpose of the Going PRO Talent Fund is to support short-term, employer-driven training that directly addresses identified talent needs. Training funded under this program must result in an industry-recognized and transferable credential, ensuring that participants gain skills that are valuable across the labor market. The program emphasizes practical, job-relevant training that enhances employee productivity and supports career advancement while also helping employers remain competitive. Eligible training formats include classroom instruction, customized training programs, on-the-job training for new employees, and training for registered apprentices recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor. Funding is awarded to employers but administered through Michigan Works! Agencies, which conduct an initial fact-finding process with applicants. During this process, agency staff assess the employer’s workforce needs, evaluate potential training providers, and determine whether Talent Fund resources are appropriate. Employers must engage early with their local agency to ensure sufficient time for this assessment and application preparation. Once approved, employers gain access to an online application system through which they submit their proposals for funding consideration. Employers receiving funding are expected to play an active role in the implementation of their training projects. This includes defining training needs, collaborating with workforce partners, and adhering to a formal training agreement with the administering agency. Employers must also contribute to the project through cash or in-kind support and are encouraged to use state workforce tools such as Pure Michigan Talent Connect and Michigan Works! services for recruitment. These requirements ensure shared investment and alignment between employer needs and workforce development goals. Eligibility for participation is centered on employers operating in Michigan and their employees. Employees must be permanent, full-time workers who primarily work in Michigan and for whom the employer pays applicable state taxes. They must be at least 18 years old and legally authorized to work in the United States. This focus ensures that program benefits are directed toward strengthening Michigan’s workforce and economy. The program does not directly fund individuals; instead, it supports employer-sponsored training initiatives. For the fiscal year 2026 Cycle 2 round, applications opened on April 6, 2026 and will close on April 24, 2026 at 5 p.m. Eastern Time. This cycle represents one of multiple funding rounds offered periodically, indicating a recurring structure. Employers must complete the required fact-finding process with their local Michigan Works! Agency prior to submitting a formal application. Additional program details, including guidance documents, are available through official state resources, including the program overview document.

Engage early with Michigan Works Agency to complete required fact finding process and ensure timely submission