The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) has announced a new $150,000 grant initiative aimed at strengthening collaboration between K–12 schools and local manufacturing industries across the state.
The Skills in Sync Regional Partnership Pilot Program is designed to help schools, employers, post-secondary institutions, and community organizations develop or expand partnerships that connect classroom learning with real-world manufacturing experience. The program emphasizes employer-informed training to prepare students for in-demand careers in advanced manufacturing.
Through a competitive application process, up to three regional grants will be awarded to support coordinated efforts between educators and industry partners. Eligible applicants include school districts, public-school academies, intermediate school districts, nonprofit organizations, and tribal education bodies.
State officials said the initiative is particularly focused on regions where manufacturing education programs already exist but require stronger industry collaboration to improve career pathways and workforce readiness.
The funding will support multi-year projects running from August 2026 through August 2028, allowing participating regions to build sustained partnerships that align education with local labor market needs.
Education and workforce leaders emphasized that early exposure to STEM and manufacturing careers can help students make informed decisions about their futures while addressing long-term workforce demands in Michigan’s automotive and manufacturing sectors.
Applications for the program are due by July 10, 2026, with awards expected to be announced in August following a competitive review process. An informational webinar for interested applicants is scheduled for June 16, 2026.
Officials highlighted that the initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen workforce pipelines, improve career readiness, and ensure that students are better connected to emerging economic opportunities across the state.
