March Blog: Workforce Connector

Wisconsin Fast Forward Grant Now Accepting Applications

Applications are now open for the Wisconsin Fast Forward Grant. This is a state-funded program that provides employer-led worker training grants. The program is administered by the Office of Skills Development at the Department of Workforce Development. The OSD strives to encourage the development of innovative solutions for both the regional and local levels. Their hopes are to “bring together employers, educators, workforce development entities, and economic development organizations to meet area workforce needs and increase the economic capacity of its residents.”

This is a great opportunity, and resource, for employers looking to display their need for skilled workers and training grants to support their workforce. The goal is to create a sustain a skilled workforce that can support economic development and community growth throughout Wisconsin.

The training for these programs is designed to provide sustainable training and future opportunity for long-term professional development. By increasing both wage growth and adding new workers into the workforce, this training is a key component to community success. 

Partnering with employers, local or regional economic development organizations, workforce development boards, post-secondary institutions, nonprofit organizations, and private training providers is crucial to achieving the long-term goal to encourage statewide economic growth. Under this program, there will be around $3,000,000 allocated for funding provided industry sector worker training grant awards, specifically allocated for the “unemployed, underemployed, and incumbent workers in order to qualify them for full-time employment, higher-level employment, wage increases, and/or industry-recognized credentials”.

The program is accepting applications until April 15th, 2022. If you would like to apply to view more information on the grant, please check out the website link as it shows all of the information specific to the grant! 

Additionally, the Chamber aims to be a resource for the Eau Claire Community in searching for workforce solutions. If you need more information about other programs or would like to talk to one of our staff pertaining to workforce, please contact us during open hours.