Workforce Advancement Training Grant

Training Support for Wisconsin Employers

Wisconsin employers can access valuable grant funding to upskill their teams through the Workforce Advancement Training (WAT) grant. These grants are administered by the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) and facilitated locally by Mid-State Technical College.

WAT grants make it easier for businesses to:

Enhance employee skills
Boost productivity
Strengthen competitiveness
Reduce training costs

Mid-State Technical College will work with you to evaluate your workforce training needs and apply for the grant on your behalf.

WAT Grants Overview

The Workforce Advancement Training grant provides millions of dollars each year to help Wisconsin businesses grow through employee development.

Grant Objective

To upgrade the skills and productivity of employees in established Wisconsin businesses while supporting regional workforce and economic development efforts.

Distribution Process

Funds are awarded exclusively through the Wisconsin Technical College System and delivered in partnership with technical colleges such as Mid-State.

Training Focus

Training must center on occupational skills but can also include a combination of occupational, academic, and employability topics. Grants may also support market expansion or business diversification services.

Award Process

WAT grants are awarded through a competitive process. Instruction and services are provided using Mid-State’s faculty expertise, training resources, and facilities.

Employer Requirements

Employers receiving WAT grant funds are active partners committed to achieving training outcomes and sustaining long-term impact.

Participating employers must:

Begin training within 90 days of the grant award notification.
Deploy on-site coaching, development planning, and performance support as appropriate to reinforce and sustain newly acquired skills.
Invest company training funds to cover indirect, administrative, and non-allowable training costs.
Report performance outcomes via the WTCS Economic Impact Survey within 30 days of project completion.

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