Wisconsin Training for Resilient Advanced Industry Needs (WisTRAIN) Grant

The Wisconsin Training for Resilient Advanced Industry Needs (WisTRAIN) grant program is administered by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) to support employer-led workforce development initiatives. The program is funded through the U.S. Department of Labor’s Industry-Driven Skills Training Fund and is designed to strengthen Wisconsin’s workforce in response to rapid technological advancements, particularly in advanced manufacturing and artificial intelligence. The initiative reflects a broader state and federal priority to enhance competitiveness, address skills shortages, and ensure that workers are prepared for evolving technical roles across key industries. The primary purpose of WisTRAIN is to provide reimbursement funding to employers for occupational training that equips workers with high-demand technical skills. Employers are responsible for identifying workforce gaps and designing training programs that align with emerging technologies and industry needs. The program emphasizes areas such as robotics, automation, digital production systems, industrial cybersecurity, and data analytics. Training can be delivered through a variety of methods, including classroom instruction, customized employer programs, simulation-based learning, on-the-job training, and registered apprenticeships, provided that the training is directly tied to occupational skill development. Funding under WisTRAIN is structured as a reimbursement model, meaning employers must initially cover training costs and then request reimbursement upon meeting specified milestones. The program reimburses up to 80 percent of eligible training costs, with a maximum of $6,600 per trainee and $330,000 per employer or consortium. Reimbursement is distributed in two stages: 70 percent upon successful completion of training and an additional 10 percent after the trainee remains employed for six months. Employers are required to contribute at least 20 percent of training costs, and funds from other federal or state programs cannot be used to fulfill this contribution. Eligibility for the program is broad and inclusive of employers of any size operating within Wisconsin, including employer consortia. Applicants must demonstrate that they are legally registered businesses in the state, financially viable, and compliant with tax obligations. Training participants must be employees working in Wisconsin-based positions, be at least 17 years old, and be legally authorized to work in the United States. Both newly hired and incumbent workers are eligible trainees. Consortium applications require a designated lead employer responsible for coordination, compliance, and reimbursement management. The application process requires submission through an online system, with applications for the initial funding round due by July 13, 2026. After this date, applications may be accepted on a rolling basis if funds remain available. Applicants must submit a complete application package, which includes a signed application and any required consortium agreements. Proposals are evaluated based on alignment with program priorities, the quality and feasibility of the training plan, demonstrated employer need, and the anticipated impact on workforce development and business competitiveness. The DWD may request additional information during the review process and reserves the right to partially fund or modify applications. The program includes defined performance timelines, with training activities allowed for up to 24 months and required to be completed by September 30, 2028. Following training completion, a six-month employment retention period is required, extending the total grant period to a maximum of 30 months. Employers must maintain detailed documentation of training activities, costs, and employment outcomes to support reimbursement requests and reporting requirements. Data reporting includes participant-level information and training outcomes to meet federal evaluation standards. Overall, WisTRAIN represents a strategic investment in workforce development, enabling employers to proactively address skill gaps while supporting workers in gaining credentials and competencies relevant to high-growth industries. By prioritizing employer-driven solutions and measurable outcomes, the program aims to enhance economic resilience, foster innovation, and ensure that Wisconsin’s workforce remains competitive in an increasingly technology-driven economy.

Align proposal with advanced manufacturing or AI workforce needs demonstrate clear skills gaps and measurable outcomes ensure strong training plan feasibility and employer commitment