Rochester Organizations Awarded State Workforce Grants

St. Paul, MN (KROC-AM News) - The State of Minnesota has announced the awarding of $17.3 million to 59 organizations for workforce development and job training.

According to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), the funding is expected to benefit more than 3,500 Minnesota residents through the Pathways to Prosperity program. A news release says the grants are designed to support economically disadvantaged adults with workforce development and training opportunities.

“Helping Minnesotans on their journey to find fulfilling, family-sustaining careers is a core tenet of the work we do at DEED, and one we take great pride in,” said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. “Programs like Pathways to Prosperity work to create an even playing field, so community members facing obstacles to employment are able to overcome them.”

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Through the On-Ramp to Career Pathways program, providers offer contextualized basic skills training so participants can move directly into employment or prepare to enter higher-skill training programs.

The Bridge to Career Pathways program provides funding for individuals seeking to improve or obtain skills to earn a recognized credential for in-demand industries.

The Individualized Training Pathway program supports participants seeking training in health care, information technology (IT), skilled trades, and advanced manufacturing.

Locally, $350,000 was awarded to the Workforce Development Center in Rochester, while another $300,000 was awarded to the Somali American Social Service Association in Rochester. The Northfield Healthy Community Initiative received $300,000, and the River Bend Nature Center in Faribault was awarded $350,000.