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OTTAWA COUNTY — More than 200 businesses in West Michigan are expected to receive a portion of $15.8 million to help train, develop and retain more than 3,400 workers, apprentices and new employees.
The money is part of the Michigan Going Pro Talent Fund donated through West Michigan Mills, which includes 18 companies in Allegan County and 52 companies in Ottawa County.
West Michigan Plant Chief Operating Officer Angie Barksdale said the funding is critical to upskilling the local workforce, which is essential in today’s ever-changing business environment. Stated.
“By allowing businesses to invest in targeted training, we help businesses stay competitive and meet industry demands, which in turn contributes to economic health and growth across the state. ,” Barksdale said.
Four more awards are pending in Ottawa County, totaling $210,392.
Some of the larger recipients include Shape Corp ($443,908.88), Hudsonville Ice Cream ($209,362.62), Adient ($190,358.35) and MillerKnoll ($180,022.15).
Historically, Western Michigan has received a lot of money since 2021, with just over $13 million in 2021 and 2022. Her highest total was in 2023, with $21.7 million distributed across West Michigan.
The state awarded a total of $39.5 million in 2022 and increased that amount to $64.8 million in 2023, said Amy Lebednick, director of business solutions for the West Michigan plant.
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Fund allocation has changed in recent years, with more awards going to IT companies and fewer awards going to manufacturing industries. Despite this change, 117 manufacturing businesses received funding.
“This investment will go beyond meeting workforce demands by providing people with the training and qualifications they need to advance their careers and improve their incomes,” Barksdale said.
— Contact Austin Mets reporter at ametz@hollandsentinel.com.
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