New Streamlined Application Process

Businesses can register and apply for a Pre-Hire Grant through our new Grant Management System.

Register and Apply for PRE-HIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TRAINING GRANTS Here

Invest in Wyoming’s Workforce with Pre-Hire Economic Development Grants

At the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services, we know that a skilled and educated workforce is essential for economic growth. That’s why we’re here to help businesses thrive with our Pre-Hire Economic Development Grant Program — designed to train and prepare workers for businesses that need specialized skills.

How the Program Works

This program connects four key players to create a pipeline of trained, job-ready employees:

  1. Training Providers: Offer the specific skills, certifications, or training needed.
  2. Businesses: A business, group of businesses or an industry with a need for workers.
  3. Local or Regional Economic Development Entity 
  4. Local Workforce Centers: The local workforce center will assist in the recruitment of potential skilled workers, along with the placement of trained participants.

Before You Apply

All entities must complete a one time registration application in order to gain access into the Grant Management System. Registration approval can take up to 1-2 weeks to process. If any good standing verifications come back needing clarification, an email will be sent to the contact information provided on the registration. All requested clarifications or good standings must be updated or corrected within 60 calendar days in order for the registration application to remain active. If requested items are not completed within that timeline, the registration will be rejected and a new registration application will need to be submitted. Please ensure your business meets the following requirements to avoid delays in the registration process. 

Good Standing: Your business must be registered and in good standing with:

  • Wyoming Unemployment Insurance (UI) 
  • Workers’ Compensation (WC) 
  • Wyoming Secretary of State (SoS) 
  • Workforce Development Training Fund (WDTF)
  • HireWyo: Your business must also be registered and in good standing with HireWYO. This process may take an additional 1-2 weeks, especially if your WC or UI accounts need to be updated.

Steps to Apply

  1. Pre-Hire Application Instructions: First, review the application instructions, which includes important forms you’ll need to complete before starting.
  2. Submit Your Application
  3. Next Steps: Once submitted, your application will be reviewed for eligibility. Approved applications move forward to implementation.

Pre-Hire Grant Resources

Pre-Obligation of Training Funds

The Pre-Obligation opportunity allows Wyoming Economic Development Entities to request funding in advance. Once approved, funds can be used for the Pre-Hire Grant, Business Training Grants, or both. Here’s what you need to know::

  • Who Can Apply: Economic Development Entities partnering with a business.
  • How to Apply: Reach out to dws-wdtf@wyo.gov if interested, and together we’ll determine if this is the right grant for you!
  • Funding Limits: Up to 200 trainees multiplied by the grant maximum:
    • $2,000 per trainee annually in non-preferred industries
    • $3,000 per trainee annually in preferred industries
  • How It Works: After funds are obligated, you’ll need to submit separate applications for specific training grants to access the money.

Need Help? WDTF staff can guide you through the process and ensure your application meets program requirements.

Pre-Obligation Resources