Workforce Center offering cash for companies to upskill workers in El Paso, Teller Counties

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) – The Pikes Peak Workforce Center is awarding $150,000 in Employee Development Funds to companies that want to train or upskill current employees.

The funds were made possible by the federal Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act. That money must be used to provide training to employees to retain a skilled workforce, or to prevent the need for layoffs. 

Preference will be given to industries such as information technology and cybersecurity, manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality and tourism. Training options include work-based, virtual, or classroom training. Employers can choose the training method that will best meet the needs of their company and employees. 

“This is a fantastic opportunity for companies in El Paso and Teller counties,” said Pikes Peak Workforce Center Communications Manager Becca Tonn. “We hope a variety of businesses and nonprofits will apply to receive this special funding and improve their economic viability by training or upskilling their employees.” 

Employers must attend one of these virtual information sessions:  

10-11 a.m. on Aug. 16  

2-3 p.m. on Aug. 18  

10-11 a.m. on Aug. 19 

The deadline for employers to apply for the funds is Sept. 2. The money will be awarded by Sept. 9. All training for employees must be completed by Jan. 13, 2023. 

For more information, visit the Pikes Peak Workforce Center's Web site.