MADISON — The Department of Workforce Development (DWD) announced Oct. 20 its Wisconsin Fast Forward (WFF) grant opportunities for employers who can demonstrate a critical need for skilled workers and are seeking WFF training grants for developing and implementing an employer-led skills training program.

WFF training programs are designed to provide sustainable, short- and medium-term training solutions that will place workers in positions that offer long-term professional growth and economic opportunity. This training will assist with adding new individuals into the workforce and increasing wages for the trainees. Growth in both areas will allow workers to have greater purchasing power, making them better able to support local businesses, invest in their communities, and create new and greater demand for goods and services, thereby providing new opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs. This approach maintains a strong environment for private-sector job creation in Wisconsin through continued growth and expansion.

Preference will be given to applicants that propose to train underserved individuals, such as chronically unemployed individuals and economically disadvantaged individuals, including, but not limited, to W-2 and FSET recipients, ex-offenders who have been the subject to any stage of the criminal justice process, Black, Indigenous, people of color, people with disabilities and veterans. 

Successful grant applications will include training programs defined by employers and developed to meet special requirements of their industry. In addition, further preference will be given to training programs that provide training that leads to industry-recognized credentials or certifications.

The WFF grant application deadline is 3 p.m. Nov. 20.

Submit proposals to: WisconsinFastForward@dwd.wisconsin.gov.

To learn more about the WFF grant program: wisconsinfastforward.com/wff_standard.htm.