Michigan LEO Cancels Going PRO Talent Fund as West Michigan Businesses Face Workforce Training Crisis

Michigan's Workforce Training Program Faces Elimination as State Budget Debate Heats Up

Michigan businesses have until April 24 to apply for approximately $6 million in training grant funding through the Going PRO Talent Fund. But that window may be closing for good.

The Governor's proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget eliminates the program entirely.

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity announced Cycle 2 applications opened for Fiscal Year 2026. Award announcements are expected in June. Since its launch in 2014, the Going PRO Talent Fund has awarded more than $323.4 million to support 8,966 businesses and 241,600 workers statewide.

The program provides grants to help employers train, develop, and retain both current and newly hired employees. Grants give businesses the resources to deliver employer-driven training that leads to industry-recognized credentials while ensuring workers have access to high-wage, long-term career opportunities.

West Michigan Businesses Rely on Program

Businesses across West Michigan depend on this funding to close critical skill gaps in industries ranging from manufacturing to healthcare to construction. The program supports a variety of training models including classroom instruction, on-the-job training for new hires, and Registered Apprenticeships.

Training is delivered in partnership with local Michigan Works! agencies, which help employers design customized solutions aligned with real-time workforce demands.

Program Already Cut 40 Percent Last Year

The program was cut by 40 percent last year. Now the Governor's proposed FY27 budget eliminates it entirely.

The Michigan Chamber of Commerce is actively advocating to preserve and restore funding for this proven program. The Chamber is educating lawmakers on its impact for employers, workers, and the broader economy.

How the Program Works

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity partners with local Michigan Works! agencies to reimburse employers for short-term, credentialed training that fills a demonstrated talent need.

Employers must work with their local Michigan Works! team to assess needs, identify training providers and eligible programs, and submit a competitive application for reimbursement.

Key details:

• Deadline: April 24 at 5 p.m.
• Funding is competitive
• Complete, accurate applications matter
• FY26 Cycle 1 awardees are not eligible for Cycle 2
• Funding covers up to $2,000 per trainee or $3,500 per apprentice

Why It Matters

The Going PRO Talent Fund is one of Michigan's most effective workforce development tools. It helps employers close skills gaps, retain talent, and stay competitive. Applications consistently exceed available funding.

The Michigan Chamber is urging lawmakers to hear directly from employers about how the fund has helped their businesses.

How to Apply

Employers interested in applying should contact their local Michigan Works! Service Center for guidance and support throughout the application process. Information can be found at Michigan.gov/MichiganWorks.

Employers can learn more about the Going PRO Talent Fund and its impact at Michigan.gov/TalentFund.

The program itself is at risk in the next state budget. Employers may have access now, but that access could disappear.

The Michigan Chamber of Commerce is taking action to protect the program. Employers are urged to share how the fund has helped their business and to urge their legislators to continue funding this program.

Sources

• https://www.michigan.gov/leo/news/2026/04/08/6-million-in-going-pro-talent-fund-grants-now-available-to-strengthen-mi-workforce-and-economy
• https://www.michamber.com/news/going-pro-talent-fund-apply-now-and-help-protect-it/
• https://www.traverseticker.com/news/six-million-in-going-pro-talent-fund-grants-available-for-michigans-workforce/
• https://www.dbusiness.com/hustle-and-muscle-articles/applications-open-for-michigans-6m-going-pro-talent-fund-deadline-is-april-24