Applications for Credential Training Program open January 1, 2025

Missouri One Start, a division of the Department of Economic Development (DED), has announced that the next application period for the Credential Training Program opens on January 1. The Credential Training Program is a competitive grant that helps employers offset the cost of short-term, industry-related employee credentialing.

"The Credential Training Program is new-this is our second application period. What's exciting about this opportunity is that it provides resources to assist Missouri companies of all sizes, and in any industry, to upskill their employees or prospective employees," said Kristie Davis, Director of Missouri One Start. "As technology continues to advance and industries adjust, it is essential to make investments that help our workforce keep up with the appropriate qualifications, both for the growth of our Missouri economy and the expansion of our talent pipeline."

Applications for the program will be accepted throughout January. When an employer is accepted for the program, a preliminary award letter will be issued to them, and the employee will have 12 months from that date to earn their credential. The business will be reimbursed once proof has been submitted to the State, showing the worker successfully earned the credential.

"Obtaining proper credentials can be expensive," said Program Coordinator Sarah Brockes-Miller. "We invite employers across Missouri to look into this program. It can provide reimbursement up to $2,000 per employee for credentials successfully earned."

Awards are limited to $30,000 per company per fiscal year, and there is a $6 million maximum program cap per fiscal year, subject to annual appropriation. Moving forward, applications are to be accepted throughout one month each quarter (January, April, July, and October).

Full guidelines for the Credential Training Program can be found here, and promotional assets for the program can be found here.

For any further questions, email [email protected].

About Missouri One Start

Missouri One Start is the state's premier workforce recruitment and training division. It helps eligible businesses of all sizes stay competitive by providing customized recruitment assistance, along with resources to train and upskill new and existing employees. Its recruitment strategies and training programs are tailored to the specific workforce needs of the businesses it serves.

To learn more about Missouri One Start, visit their website.

About the Missouri Department of Economic Development

The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri's businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.

For the latest updates on DED's current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED's website.