Several Central Minnesota Businesses Receive State Dual Training Grants

(KNSI) — Several central Minnesota businesses and organizations are among this year’s recipients of Minnesota Dual Training Grants.

The Minnesota Office of Higher Education announced nearly $4.9 million in grants to 71 businesses and five regional organizations statewide. The money funds dual training programs that combine on-the-job training with technical instruction in high-demand industries, including health care, manufacturing, child care, transportation, agriculture, information technology, and legal cannabis.

CentraCare Health System in St. Cloud received the maximum award of $150,000. Ichor Systems in Sauk Rapids received $46,200. Two Rivers Enterprises in Holdingford was awarded $47,600. Annandale Health and Community Services received $52,800. And UMC in Monticello received $66,000.

Individual employees can receive up to $6,000 in training costs, including tuition, fees, books, and materials. Grantees can also receive up to $15,000 for trainee support costs such as transportation, lodging, meals, tutoring, and interpreter services.

OHE Commissioner Dennis Olson said the grants represent an investment in the future of the state, helping build the next generation workforce in high-demand industries while allowing Minnesotans to start careers and support their families.

Since 2019, the state has awarded more than $28.6 million in Dual Training Grants to support nearly 4,200 employees across Minnesota.

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