Michigan Works in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties is now taking applications for the next round of Going Pro Talent Fund grants.

Michigan Works business solutions manager Michael Mompremier tells us Going Pro pays for new training for workers.

“It’s essentially created to assist with training, developing, retaining current, as well as newly hired employees,” Mompremier said. “In regards to the training, generally it must lead to a credential for a skill that’s transferable as well as recognized within the industry.”

Mompremier says the program pays up to $2,000 for non-apprenticed employees and up to $3,500 for apprenticed employees. It’s made a big difference in Southwest Michigan over the years.

“For 2024, we were able to assist 69 companies within Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren get awarded to the tune of $4.6 million. So that’s a significant boon to the area.”

Michigan Works obtains the grants for employers from the state. Going Pro will pay for training in several industries, so it’s not just manufacturing. Mompremier urges any employers who might be interested to contact Michigan Works about applying.

The application period runs through October 18 and Michigan Works will learn which employers are receiving support around December.

Below are the contact addresses for employers:

Berrien County: Michael Mompremier at MompremierM@miworks.org

Cass and Van Buren Counties: Jennifer Leich at LeichJ@miworks.org

Hospitality and Small Business: Paul Panicucci at PanicucciP@miworks.org