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WisTRAIN is an employer-led workforce training grant program that helps employers fast-track their workforce growth and expertise. Focused on advanced manufacturing and artificial intelligence (AI), WisTRAIN grants fund employer-driven occupational training to help workers and employers adapt to the rapid evolution of technology in key industries and prepares Wisconsin's workforce for the fastest-growing technical occupations.
WisTRAIN grants are open to employers of any size operating in Wisconsin. Grant Amount: Up to $330,000 per grantee or consortium.
Learn more about the Wisconsin Training for Resilient Advanced Industry Needs grant program in this video. Apply by July 13, 2026, to be considered in the initial funding round.
Eligibility requirements include:
- Operating a business in Wisconsin or being part of a consortium of Wisconsin employers
- Proposes training that supports occupations, technologies, or workforce needs related to advanced manufacturing, AI, or related emerging industries
- Employing trainees in Wisconsin-based positions
How to apply:
- Apply through the WisTRAIN online application system
- Submit applications by 11:59 p.m. CDT on July 13, 2026, for consideration in the initial funding round
- After June 13, 2026, if funds are available, applications may be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis until all funds are awarded
WisTRAIN grants are available to employers statewide and support two high-growth and in-demand industries critical to Wisconsin's economic future:
Advanced Manufacturing
- Technologies: Robotics, digital twins, predictive maintenance, cyber-secure operational systems, and more
- Demand: Skills shortages in data analytics, project management, and digital systems integration
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Applications: Healthcare, finance, logistics, agriculture, and manufacturing
- Demand: Expertise in data analytics, human-AI collaboration, and cybersecurity
Program Goals
This program gives employers the funding to train workers for the future. WisTRAIN grants aim to address industry shifts resulting from technological advances to:
- Expand access to industry-recognized credentials;
- Support digital equity and literacy;
- Increase employer-education partnerships; and
- Prepare workers for high-demand jobs while ensuring employers remain competitive in a rapidly changing economy.
WisTRAIN is supported by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) through an Industry-Driven Training Fund grant. A total of $7,300,000, or 100% of the program is financed with federal funds. This product was created by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and does not necessarily reflect the official position of DOL. DOL makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it.
The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development is an equal opportunity employer and service provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. If you need to access this information in an alternate format or language, please contact the Division of Employment and Training at 888-258-9966 and press 6 or dial 7-1-1 for Wisconsin Relay Service.
