Applications open for TWC program that helps fund employee training

The Texas Workforce Commission is accepting applications for the Upskill Texas program. The state agency’s program has allocated $6 million toward employee training with this round of funding.

“My fellow commissioners and I have heard from many of you about the need to upskill your current employees, and this program offers a great solution,” Joe Esparza, commissioner representing employers, wrote in a recent TWC email. “Upskill Texas can reimburse employers for providing technical training to current employees.”

To be eligible, businesses must have 100 or more employees located in Texas and provide a 50% employer match, which can include trainee wages and benefits. Eligible employers include private, nonprofit, or for-profit businesses, and also public healthcare organizations. Upskill Texas is intended to offer financial support to employers that are:

• Expanding their operations.

• Retooling their processes.

• Introducing new services or product lines.

• Experiencing organizational structure changes.

Employers may designate a community or technical college, third-party trainer, or workforce development board to apply on their behalf and administer the grant.

Projects must range from $150,000 to $500,000. Up to $3,000 is available per trainee, and the training must be 100% technical.

The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. June 30. Applications will be processed in the order received and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

“I encourage you to apply as soon as possible,” wrote Esparza, who also encouraged employers to sign up for an upcoming Texas Conference for Employers in their area.-