Connecting with students and growing your future workforce doesn’t always mean carrying the full cost yourself. From internships and work-based learning to tuition reimbursement, there are a variety of state and local programs that support your student connections, making opportunities easier—and more affordable—for employers like you.
North Dakota programs
In North Dakota, Job Service has long recognized the importance of giving students authentic workplace experiences. Through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), eligible youth can work up to 25 hours a week, paid, while gaining hands-on skills. For employers, the program also offers On-the-Job Training (OJT), where up to half of a participant’s wages can be reimbursed for six months. It’s a straightforward way to bring someone on board and have support while they learn the ropes. If you’re not in North Dakota, most states have similar programs – just check with your local Job Service or Department of Industry/Department of Commerce to learn more.
The Department of Commerce offers a variety of other workforce programs designed to assist employers in creating and maintaining current and future North Dakota workforce. Operation Intern, for example, provides businesses up to $5,000 in matching funds for internships and apprenticeships. The funding can be used for everything from wages to training and tuition reimbursement. Applications open again in January.
Finally, North Dakota’s Career Builders program provides matching funds for tuition reimbursement or student loan repayment, making it easier to keep graduates in the state.
Minnesota programs
In Minnesota, the Department of Labor and Industry offers the Youth Skills Training (YST) program, which promotes and supports the development of local partnerships among schools, employers, and community organizations. These partnerships provide students 16 and older with industry-related classroom instruction and paid work experience in fields like healthcare, IT, agriculture, and manufacturing. The program also includes Youth Skills Training Grants to support these partnerships. It’s a great way to build a pipeline of talent while students are still in high school.
The MN Department of Labor and Industry also offers numerous other grants to train people for new careers or to advance labor-enhancing programs.
South Dakota programs
South Dakota Job Service has similar OJT opportunities, with reimbursements covering up to 50 percent of wages. These programs can help when introducing new technology, updating production processes, or even sponsoring apprenticeships. The employer, participant, and state specialists work together to ensure a good match and that the training period sets everyone up for success.
South Dakota’s Build Dakota program offers free technical college tuition in high-demand careers.
Local programs
Don’t forget about local opportunities! Many chambers of commerce and economic development groups have programs aligned to these state workforce efforts. Forward Devils Lake (ND), for example, offers the “20 by 20” Skilled Workforce Recruitment and Retention Program. It reimburses local businesses up to $6,000 of the $8,500 they need to invest to receive the ND Career Builders program’s matching funds to help recruit and retain North Dakota talent. That enables a $2,500 business investment to turn into $17,000!
Grafton, ND, helps employers cover tuition reimbursement costs, and Grand Forks offers Operation Intern GF. Golden Path Solutions has launched a new partnership with the Detroit Lakes (MN) Regional Chamber of Commerce, giving local employer members discounted access to Compass.
Learn more
The bottom line? Whether you’re hiring interns, offering tuition support, or exploring apprenticeships, there are dollars available to help. Every state in our region receives this type of funding, so no matter where you’re located, programs exist to support you.
Reach out to us if you’d like to learn which options are the best fit for your company. We’d be glad to help you explore your options and get connected.