Elevating Florida’s Workforce through Training Grants

CareerSource Florida is a proud partner of the Florida Chamber in promoting economic growth and workforce development throughout our state. As the Florida 2030 Blueprint goal leader for ensuring that more than 80% of Florida’s workforce has essential employability skills, our partnership is dedicated to providing businesses with the tools they need to foster a well-trained workforce and remain competitive.

CareerSource Florida offers comprehensive training grant programs to help businesses enhance their workforce’s skills and maintain a competitive edge.

The Incumbent Worker Training (IWT) grant is designed to help businesses address skills gaps within their current workforce by reimbursing up to 75% of training costs. From 2023 to 2024, CareerSource Florida awarded $2.9 million in IWT grants to 69 businesses, benefiting over 2,700 full-time employees. Since its inception, more than 3,100 Florida companies have utilized IWT grants to improve their workforce capabilities.

Key Benefits of IWT Grants:

• Flexible Application Process: Small for-profit businesses can apply anytime, with priority funding for training aligned with Florida’s Master Credentials List.
• Alignment with Workforce Needs: Ensures training funds are directed towards credentials that meet the state’s critical workforce demands.
• Enhanced Competitiveness: Helps businesses improve employee skills, boosting productivity and market competitiveness.
• Career Advancement: Provides employees with recognized qualifications, promoting career growth and development.

The Quick Response Training (QRT) grant supports new and expanding businesses in Florida by providing funding for customized training of new hires. Funded by Florida’s Governor and the Legislature, this grant helps businesses quickly adapt to market demands. From 2023 to 2024, CareerSource Florida provided $6.5 million in QRT grants to 24 businesses, upskilling  over 2,700 new hires. Over the past 30 years, the QRT program has enabled more than 200,000 employees to receive specialized training.

Key Benefits of QRT Grants:

• Rapid Workforce Development: Supports the quick training of new employees, helping businesses scale efficiently.
• Customized Training Solutions: Tailored to meet the specific needs of new and expanding businesses.
• Economic Growth: Contributes to Florida’s economic development by ensuring a skilled and adaptable workforce.

CareerSource Florida and the Florida Chamber share a common goal: to foster economic prosperity and workforce excellence in Florida. By leveraging training grants, businesses can ensure their employees are equipped with the skills needed to succeed in a competitive landscape. Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient economy for all Floridians.

For more information on how CareerSource Florida’s training grants can benefit your business, visit our website.