Gov. Reynolds announced on Wednesday that $5 million in Coronavirus Relief funds are going to the Future Ready Iowa Employer Innovation Fund.
The funding will provide employers and community leaders with the funding needed to train Iowans, so they’re ready for opportunities in high-demand jobs. Gov. Reynolds’ office said the grants specifically focus on Iowans whose jobs have been affected or eliminated due to the pandemic.
In addition to training, books and other tools, the funds can go toward support services that will cover childcare, transportation and other necessities while in training.
“The Employer Innovation Fund empowers employers and communities to find creative ways to help workers most affected by the pandemic by identifying local workforce needs and then creating programs that will quickly get people into and out of training to meet those needs,” said Beth Townsend, Director of Iowa Workforce Development in an announcement. “As Iowa’s businesses reopen, the grants will help Iowans gain credentials in high-demand jobs that support a good quality of life for themselves and their families. It is a tremendous investment in our workers and our recovery.”
Applications opened on August 26 and will remain open until September 16, with recipients being notified by September 23. No matching funds will be required from applicants. The maximum available award is $100,000 per applicant.
Previous coverage
Middle Bit: Future Ready Iowa Employer Innovation Fund awards 14 recipients -Jan. 17, 2020
Employer Innovation Fund awards $400,000 to 13 employers across Iowa -Aug. 28, 2019
$16 million in funding now available through Future Ready Iowa programs -June 14, 2019