TALLAHASSEE — On Feb. 11, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) announced $1.5 million in workforce training grants will be awarded to eligible Floridians through the Everglades Training Program. Created and funded by the Florida Legislature, and administered by DEO, the Everglades Training Program is designed to meet the changing workforce needs of the Everglades region. This program allows eligible schools and businesses to deliver nonagricultural occupational training to Floridians in Collier, Glades, Hendry, Highlands, Palm Beach and Okeechobee counties.

The deadline to apply for tuition and employer-based grants is Monday, Feb. 18, 2019. To apply, visit FloridaJobs.org/EvergladesTrainingProgram.

“Following Governor DeSantis’ vision, the need to diversify our economy and address our changing business environment is paramount. Thus, the Everglades Training Program provides Floridians in the Everglades region the opportunity to get the skills they need to be able to find and keep a job,” said Ken Lawson, executive Director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. “We want to encourage any schools and businesses throughout the region to apply for these grants to help their students and employees advance their skills.”

Businesses can apply for employer-based grants to fund nonagricultural occupational training. Funds may be used to cover curriculum development, cost of hiring instructors, materials, equipment, overhead costs and administrative costs associated with new and existing training programs. Priority of funding will be given to businesses in Hendry and Palm Beach counties. Second priority will be given to businesses in Collier, Glades, Highlands and Okeechobee counties.

Private or public technical or vocational schools can apply for tuition grants on behalf of eligible students for training in nonagricultural occupations. Tuition grants can cover the costs of attendance, including tuition and fees, equipment, supplies, books and other fees directly associated with the participation and completion of a training program.

For more information, please visit FloridaJobs.org/EvergladesTrainingProgram.