Florida is recognized as being one of the top three states with the best workforce training programs. The state offers three different programs for expanding or relocating businesses to train their workers. Additionally, throughout the year FloridaWorks applies for training grants that they make available to employers, employees, or job seekers in Alachua and Bradford Counties. Check back often to see if new funding is available.
The Business Employment Solutions & Training (BEST) grant provides 50% matching funds for employers to upgrade the skills of their employees. Interested companies submit applications through FloridaWorks Business Services and they are evaluated by the workforce board. FloridaWorks was awarded $333,000 in BEST grant funding for the 2007-2008 fiscal year.
New and expanding businesses that produce exportable goods or services and are creating full-time, high-quality jobs may be eligible for Florida’s Quick Response Training Program, which has funded customized entry-level training for over 65,000 employees in more than 270 businesses across the state. Special attention is given to businesses in rural communities, enterprise zones and other distressed areas. As its name implies, quick response is indeed quick – applications can be approved within three to five days.
Businesses also can benefit from Florida’s Incumbent Worker Training Program, which helps employers fund training for individuals they already employ to keep their companies and workers competitive. Businesses in rural or urban areas are a key target. Created in 1999, the program elicited over $3 million in requests from 62 applicants during its first eight months. Nearly $1 million for 46 projects were approved, including 21 small businesses with fewer than 25 employees.