Pathways Program

Overview
The Pathways Program focuses on providing training, new jobs and career paths for people who have incomes at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines or those who are making a transition from public assistance to work.

Projects must include at least one participating business and an accredited Minnesota educational institution or training provider.  Grants of up to $400,000 per project may be awarded to develop and deliver training specific to business needs.  Cash or in-kind contributions from the participating business(es) must match program funds on at least a one-half to one ratio.

Eligible applicants include accredited Minnesota educational institutions and workforce development intermediaries partnering with businesses within the state. Workforce development intermediaries are defined as public, private or nonprofit entities that provide employment services to low-income individuals.

A short-form application is available for grants of up to $50,000.

Preference is given to projects that provide full-time employment with benefits and projects with defined career paths. 

Projects average one to three years in duration.

Use of Funds
Funds may be used for training-related costs such as curriculum development, instruction, training materials and supplies, training equipment, and instructor travel.  Funds may also be used to partner with local human service agencies or nonprofit organizations that are providing training-related services.  Requests for wage subsidies and tuition reimbursements are NOT eligible.

To Apply
Applications are accepted on a year-round basis.  Grants, pending the availability of funding, are generally are reviewed and approved two to three times per year by the Minnesota Job Skills Partnership Board.

See the Application Process Section of this Web site.

For More Information
Contact the Minnesota Job Skills Partnership Office at 651-259-7514 or by email at deed.mjsp@state.mn.us

Mailing Address
Minnesota Job Skills Partnership Office
Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development
First National Bank Building
332 Minnesota Street, Suite E200
St. Paul, MN  55101-1351