Pennsylvania Provides Grant Funding for Employee Training Through WEDnetPA
Beginning June 1, 2021, eligible companies can apply for a training grant through the Workforce and Economic Development Network of Pennsylvania (WEDnetPA).
WEDnetPA is a statewide and state-funded workforce program that was created in 1999 by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. The program was created to help make companies across the Commonwealth more competitive within their regional, national and international landscapes by providing a flexible, easy-to-use professional training system for the Pennsylvania business community.
Eligible in-state businesses and out-of-state companies relocating to Pennsylvania can apply to WEDnetPA to access funds for training on a wide range of topics. Training services are delivered via a cost-effective network of educational partners that include community colleges and Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) colleges and universities, for example.
WEDnetPA allows businesses to determine their own training needs and select among a wide range of training providers, giving them the flexibility to decide how and where they will receive their desired training (onsite, offsite or online). When training is complete, businesses can submit documentation and receive reimbursement for eligible costs.
Pennsylvania companies and their employees stand to greatly benefit from the training and education that is available through WEDnetPA. To date, WEDnetPA has engaged more than 8,500 private-sector training providers to work with nearly 18,000 Pennsylvania companies and help train approximately 1.2 million workers. Of those participating companies, 95% experienced a positive impact on their business including increased sales, decreased costs and fewer accidents. Of the trained workers, 99% have reported positive outcomes including promotions, pay raises and increased morale.