MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Minnesota Awards $1.6 Million in Workforce Training Grants Through Job Skills Partnership

ST. PAUL, MN (April 2026) The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development has awarded $1.6 million in workforce training grants through the Minnesota Job Skills Partnership (MJSP), supporting 10 projects across seven educational institutions in collaboration with Minnesota employers.

The funding is part of a state-administered program designed to align workforce training with employer demand by creating customized, industry-specific education pathways.

Program Structure and Funding Model

Under the Minnesota Job Skills Partnership, grants are awarded to accredited Minnesota educational institutions, which then partner with businesses to design and deliver tailored training programs. These programs are built to meet specific workforce needs identified by employers.

A core requirement of the program is a one-to-one private match. For every dollar of state funding, participating businesses must contribute at least an equal amount in cash or in-kind support, including equipment, facilities, or staff time.

Scope of Training Programs

The newly approved grants will support workforce initiatives focused on:

• Onboarding: Training new hires to accelerate job readiness and reduce time to productivity
• Upskilling: Advancing the technical capabilities of current employees, including training on new technologies and certifications
• Leadership Development: Preparing supervisors and managers with skills in communication, operations, and project management

Programs are delivered through colleges, universities, and other accredited training providers, with curriculum tailored to the operational needs of participating employers.

Economic Impact and Scale

DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek said the program strengthens collaboration between educators and employers while helping retain high-quality jobs in Minnesota.

State data shows that since 2019, the Minnesota Job Skills Partnership has:

• Awarded nearly $45 million in state grants
• Trained or upskilled more than 45,000 workers
• Leveraged more than $74 million in private-sector investment

The required employer match has been a key factor in expanding the program’s reach, effectively doubling the impact of state funding.

Workforce Strategy and Industry Alignment

The MJSP program is a central component of Minnesota’s workforce development strategy, aimed at reducing skills gaps and supporting business competitiveness. By allowing employers to define specific training needs, the program enables targeted workforce preparation across sectors such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.

Officials say the customized approach ensures that training remains responsive to changing economic conditions while providing workers with access to high-demand career pathways.

Additional details on grant recipients and participating business partners are expected to be released through the Minnesota Job Skills Partnership Board and DEED program updates.

MinneapoliMedia | Community. Culture. Civic Life