Iowa to Launch New Training Grant to Strengthen State’s Manufacturing Workforce

DES MOINES, Iowa (June 17, 2026) – Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) is announcing a new statewide initiative kicking off later this month that will help develop a more skilled and competitive workforce in the state’s advanced manufacturing industry.

The new initiative, Advanced Manufacturing Pathways Development (AMP’D) Iowa, is part of a $4.7 million grant awarded to the state from the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Industry-Driven Skills Training Fund, which was created to address critical workforce needs across the country. All Iowa employers operating in the advanced manufacturing sector are encouraged to review the qualifying criteria and consider applying.

Starting Monday, June 29, AMP’D Iowa will accept grant applications from eligible Iowa manufacturers to partner and design employer-led training programs that focus on production, machine maintenance, and other critical skill gaps in their labor force. Eligible employers can receive up to 80 percent reimbursement for expenses incurred on training newly hired or current employees, offsetting costs and accelerating upskilling in their workforce. Grant awards include a maximum of $4,000 per employee, up to a $250,000 maximum per employer.

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Originally published by Iowa Workforce Development in June 2026.