Green training grants available for Minnesota businesses and organizations

The Minnesota State Energy Sector Partnership is accepting innovative proposals from Minnesota-based businesses and organizations to train Minnesotans in occupational skills, support career pathways and achieve successful job placement in the energy efficiency and renewable energy industry.
MSESP, which plans to distribute about $1.6 million, will consider proposal requests ranging from $25,000 to $250,000. Broad partnerships and inter-regional collaborations are welcome.
“MSESP is making investments to drive growth in our green economy and continually build the skills of the workforce for Minnesota businesses to compete in the global economy,” said Inez Wildwood, MSESP co-chair and Manager of Talent for Duluth-based Allete, Inc., in a news release.
Proposals must provide details about training, job placement and related activities in the energy efficient and renewable energy industries. Proposals that address supporting sectors and suppliers will also be considered.
For more information or to download a copy of the request for proposal, visit http://www.gwdc.org/initiatives/msesp/2011_2012MSESP_RFP.htm to get the details.
“MSESP continues to focus on programs preparing for careers in renewable energy and supporting the creation of jobs that have true impact,” said Cyndi Lesher, MSESP co-chair and former CEO of Northern States Power Co.
MSESP, an initiative of the Governor’s Workforce Development Council, is funded by a three-year, $6 million U.S. Department of Labor grant to provide training, job placement and related activities in the energy-efficiency and renewable energy industry.
Partnership members include representatives from energy efficiency and renewable energy businesses and industries, GWDC, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, Office of Energy Security, representatives from apprenticeship and veterans agencies, labor organizations, state legislators, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions and economic development organizations.