Awards have been announced for the Coronavirus Relief Fund Employer Innovation Fund Grant. More than $4.3 million in total was awarded to the 65 winning applicants.
The program will assist Iowa employers, nonprofits, community colleges, high schools, and universities to provide postsecondary training and education to Iowans whose employment has been impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic.
“Future Ready Iowa’s Employer Innovation Fund is centered around a grassroots effort to solve local workforce challenges while helping Iowans find economic opportunity in their community. The winning projects address barriers for Iowans who have lost their jobs due to the pandemic by providing training opportunities that will build on our economic recovery,” said Gov. Reynolds in an announcement. “These programs not only help those affected by the pandemic, they will also focus on recruiting our minority and underrepresented communities to help us diversify our workforce and provide equal chances of success for all Iowans.”
The Coronavirus Relief Fund Employer Innovation Fund grants can be used to cover the cost of training, books, and equipment as well as often providing much needed wrap-around support that address other barriers some Iowans face when trying to obtain skills training.
“Once again, employers, nonprofits and educators have come up with amazing and innovative solutions to help their fellow Iowans by creating training opportunities in high demand occupations,” said Beth Townsend, Director of Iowa Workforce Development. “From IT, healthcare, advanced manufacturing to first responders, these programs will help expand our skilled workforce, diversify our workplaces and help those most affected by the pandemic.”
Click here to see all 65 award winners.