- Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development
This National Workforce Development Month, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) is recognizing the contributions of workforce professionals and programs that support jobseekers and employers. Massachusetts’ workforce development programs work toward closing equity gaps experienced by the unemployed and underemployed. In collaboration with Commonwealth Corporation (Comm Corp), we’re committed to ensuring that Massachusetts businesses have access to a pipeline of highly skilled workers. Follow along this Workforce Development Month as we spotlight different tools in the state’s toolbox.
This week we are highlighting Comm Corp’s Rob Duncan and the Workforce Training Fund Program.
Can you tell us more about the program?
The Workforce Training Fund Program (WTFP) allows businesses and organizations to address their business productivity and competitiveness by providing resources to fund training for current and newly hired employees. Last fiscal year (FY 2023) Comm Corp awarded over $39 million in grants to 1,600+ businesses to train over 30,000 workers throughout the Commonwealth.
How can an employer participate in the program?
For Massachusetts’ economy to prosper, businesses need access to a pipeline of skilled workers. Employers can apply for WTFP grants at any time throughout the year. Information about which grants are available can be found on Comm Corp’s website and our team is available to support applicants – we can be reached at wtfp@commcorp.org.
What type of trainings can employers administer with the program?
WTFP grants cover almost any type of workplace skills training. Topics include but are not limited to, process improvement, software skills, supervisory skills for new managers, quality management, and a wide range of technical skills. Other topics include Workplace ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Training, DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), and training related to the effects of climate change.
