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Tony Evers, Governor
Amy Pechacek, Secretary

Department of Workforce Development
Secretary's Office
201 E. Washington Avenue
P.O. Box 7946
Madison, WI 53707-7946
Telephone: (608) 266-3131
Fax: (608) 266-1784
Email: sec@dwd.wisconsin.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mar. 10, 2025
CONTACT: DWD Communications
CommunicationsOffice@dwd.wisconsin.gov

Employer Grants Now Available to Train Skilled Workers

Application deadline extended to fund innovative and collaborative customized worker training

MADISON – The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) has extended the deadline for employers to apply for Wisconsin Fast Forward worker training grants from March 11 until Wednesday, April 2, 2025, by 3 p.m. Employers of all types and sizes across Wisconsin are encouraged to apply for this funding that helps address the critical demand for skilled workers.

The WFF program supports innovative local and regional solutions to help employers meet workforce needs in their areas. The Industry Sectors Worker Training Grants reimburse the costs of customized occupational training for unemployed, underemployed, and existing workers. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $400,000 – and higher for consortium applicants – can cover training that qualifies workers for full-time positions, higher-level roles, or increased wages.

"These grants benefit employers and workers, and strengthen Wisconsin's workforce for the future," said DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek. "Through this strategic investment by Governor Tony Evers, we are addressing the workforce quantity challenges employers across the state have been facing and offering workers the skills they need to succeed."

Eligible applicants include:

Public agencies
Private organizations in all industry sectors
A consortium of placement partners with the lead public or private organization serving as the applicant
Tribal governing bodies of a federally recognized tribe or band of Native Americans, or an organization appointed by the tribal governing body

Find additional details about the grant program announcement. Learn more about the Wisconsin Fast Forward Standard Grant program.

ABOUT DWD

Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Development efficiently delivers effective and inclusive services to meet Wisconsin's diverse workforce needs now and for the future. The department advocates for and invests in the protection and economic advancement of all Wisconsin workers, employers, and job seekers through six divisions – Employment and Training, Vocational Rehabilitation, Unemployment Insurance, Equal Rights, Worker's Compensation, and Administrative Services. To keep up with DWD announcements and information, sign up for news releases and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.