Most of the business leaders we work with understand the key to success is investing in their team members’ development. They know team training enhances individual skills, fosters effective communication, promotes a shared understanding of goals, and creates a collaborative mindset, which ultimately leads to increased productivity, better problem-solving abilities, and a stronger sense of unity within the team. All of which can positively impact the company’s overall performance and bottom line.
The challenge, however, is almost always budget.
The great news is many states may have a solution for that, and it is in the shape of a job skills grant! In fact, we have helped dozens of customers earn training grants in several different states. These grants have covered $40,000-400,000 in team development projects, and we are proud to help them every step of the way! A state training grant provides financial assistance to a business to cover the cost of workforce training, allowing them to upskill employees, develop new skills, and gain a competitive advantage in the market, often with the benefit of being specifically tailored to the needs of the state’s workforce and industries, ultimately leading to a more qualified workforce and economic growth within the region.
Why Apply for a State Training Program?
Cost reduction: Grants can significantly offset the cost of training programs, making it more accessible for businesses to invest in employee development.
Meeting workforce needs: State training grants often target specific industries or skills gaps within the state, allowing businesses to train employees for in-demand jobs.
Boosting employee skills: By funding training programs, businesses can improve their employees’ skills and knowledge, leading to increased productivity and efficiency.
Attract and retain talent: Offering training opportunities funded by grants can be a valuable incentive for attracting and retaining skilled employees in your home state or region.
Economic development: By supporting workforce development, state training grants contribute to the overall economic growth of the region.
How Can the Grant Funds be Used?
This can vary by state and program, but most will allow for a variety of applications.
- Customized curriculum development
- Onsite, online, or LMS (learning management system) training (or all 3!)
- Training materials and supplies as needed
What Type of Training is Eligible?
This, too, can vary by state and type of grant, but most are pretty broad.
- Onboarding and employee development
- Leadership development and mentorship
- Sales and customer experience
- Team building and company culture
- Project management and strategic planning
- Safety and technical skills
- And many, many others!
The Conversion-omics Process: Your Partner in Success
Navigating the grant process can feel overwhelming. At Conversion-omics, we’ve successfully stepped through this process alongside clients numerous times. Tapping into our experience, we’ve developed a process that helps simplify the process while demystifying many of the unknowns that companies encounter.
Here’s how we can help:
- Needs Assessment: We’ll help identify the specific training needs of your team.
- Grant Writing Assistance: We partner you with experienced grant writers who specialize in crafting compelling applications. Depending on the grant size, fees typically range from $2,000 to $5,000. This process can take 4-6 weeks.
- Application Submission: Your application is submitted, providing detailed information about your training needs and expected outcomes.
- Grant Awarded: Once approved, your training program can usually begin as soon as 30 days after grant approval.
- Training Delivery: We coordinate every detail of your custom training program—in person, online, or even through creating a dedicated Learning Management System. We offer workshops, personalized training, and other unique opportunities for your business and can do it in a convenient location.
The biggest thing we’ve learned? To maximize your chances of success, it’s essential to plan ahead. The application process can take weeks, even months, so NOW is the time to get started.
Why Work with Conversion-omics?
Our team takes pride in being your trusted partner throughout the process. With our no-obligation assessment, we’ll help you determine the best approach for your business. From securing a grant writer to designing and delivering customized training, we are here to aid you in the planning behind your grant application and, once secured, provide a hassle-free and effective training process that will garner the results your company desires.
Spotlight on Minnesota: The Minnesota Job Skills Partnership (MJSP) Program
The MJSP program is an exceptional example of a job training grant program. Its primary goal is to foster economic growth within the state by helping Minnesota employees develop essential skills to thrive in their roles. We’ve been involved in helping several Minnesota-based businesses, of all sizes, successfully apply for and receive an MJSP grant to help fund training for their team, in addition to many grants in other states. While it’s just one of many programs available across the nation, it offers a good snapshot of what these types of programs look like.
The MJSP program offers two levels of grants:
- Short Form Application: Grants up to $50,000. For many companies, this is an ideal starting point, with the option to reapply for additional funding later.
- Long Form Application: Grants up to $400,000. Designed for more extensive training programs.
Funds can be used for curriculum development, onsite or virtual training, training materials, and supplies.
Applications are accepted three to six weeks ahead of the organization’s board meetings. Meeting dates for 2025 are:
- March 3, 2025
- June 16, 2025
- October 27, 2025
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you are located in Minnesota or in another state, we’re here to share our knowledge with you. Contact Conversion-omics today to schedule your no-obligation assessment. Let’s connect and explore how we can help you create impactful training programs and position your company for long-term success.
Lynne Jensen-Nelson Founder, Conversion-omics Speakers & Consultants
Conversion-omics Speakers & Consultants is a full-service bureau equipped with expert speakers, trainers, and consultants. Offering keynote speakers, custom workshops, and business strategy all in one place, Conversion-omics takes the guesswork out of hiring a professional. Each talented team member has been vetted to ensure they have the knowledge, skills, and experience to meet your unique needs.
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