Gov. Whitmer awards more than $6 million to support workforce training across Michigan

121 businesses receive Going PRO Talent Fund awards to train workers, develop skilled talent and support economic growth

Lansing, Mich. — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joined the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) to award more than $6 million in Fiscal Year 2026 Cycle 2 Going PRO Talent Fund grants to 121 businesses across the state. Businesses will use the funding to train 2,247 current employees and 550 new hires, including 933 Registered Apprentices, helping employers address talent shortages and equip workers with in-demand skills that lead to industry-recognized credentials.

“Michigan’s greatest strength is our people,” said Gov. Whitmer. “The Going PRO Talent Fund helps employers invest in their workers, fill critical jobs and build the talent they need to grow and compete. By supporting skills training and career advancement opportunities, we're helping more Michiganders earn high-quality jobs while strengthening our economy and creating opportunity in communities across the state.”

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. This cycle’s awards support employers across a wide range of industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, construction, information technology and transportation.

“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 Going PRO Talent Fund helps employers train, develop and retain current and newly hired employees through short-term employer driven training programs. Funded training leads to industry recognized, transferable credentials that prepare workers for long-term career success. Workers who complete training supported by Going PRO 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 innovative training grant program continues to benefit Michigan small businesses. Of the 9,010 award recipients, 91% (8,156) are small businesses with fewer than 500 employees — and 59% (5,293) of all businesses receiving funding have fewer than 100 employees.

Grants funded through the Going PRO Talent Fund are awarded in partnership with Michigan Works! Agencies. Michigan Works! Business Services teams work directly with employers to identify skills gaps, assess workforce needs and connect businesses with customized training solutions that support growth and competitiveness.

The Going PRO Talent Fund aligns with the goals of Michigan's Statewide Workforce Plan by expanding access to skills training, increasing economic opportunity and helping employers develop the workforce they need to succeed.

A full list of award recipients and more information about the Going PRO Talent Fund and its impact is available at Michigan.gov/TalentFund.

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