Maryland Department of Labor Announces the Return of the Maryland Business Works Program

State Initiative Invests in Maryland Businesses

BALTIMORE, MD (April 20, 2016) – Today, under the leadership of Governor Larry Hogan, the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, in consultation with the Maryland Department of Commerce, announces the return of Maryland Business Works Program, the highly successful worker training program. With an initial investment of $500,000.00 in business engagement funds, the Maryland Department of Labor is eager to partner with Maryland’s businesses to support employer strategies for retention, growth and expansion.

“With the addition of 63,200 jobs, Maryland has gone from last to first in the Mid-Atlantic region and added more jobs than any other state in the country,” said Governor Hogan. “Under our administration, Maryland is now a more business friendly state and programs such as Maryland Business Works, that emphasize skills training, will only help to continue to grow our private sector and Maryland's economy.”

“The Maryland Business Works Program is just one of the many ways the Maryland Department of Labor is supporting local businesses and workers by creating innovative training opportunities," said Maryland Labor Secretary Kelly M. Schulz. "By providing businesses with the tools they need to succeed, we are helping Maryland employers build and expand their talent pipeline while changing Maryland for the better.”

Participation in the program requires a dollar-for-dollar match by the employer, which will result in an overall investment of $1 million in training. Training funds may be used to upgrade the skills of current employees while also creating opportunities for new hires in in-demand occupations and skills. Through this program, Maryland workers will gain transferable skills or industry-recognized certifications or credentials, leading to potential career growth and increased wages. Projects will be industry-focused and employer-based, targeting small business, particularly at the local level.

The Maryland Business Works program targets businesses located in Maryland. Funds will be primarily targeted to small businesses with 100 employees or fewer, local and regional businesses providing in-demand products or services, and businesses facing potential layoffs. The program specifically targets the needs of Maryland’s businesses through classroom-based training, in-house staff training, apprenticeships and other opportunities.

For more information, interested businesses are encouraged to visit the Department’s website, e-mail the Department’s Business Services Team at DLWDALbusinessservices-dllr@maryland.gov, or contact the Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning at 410-767-2173.

About the Maryland Department of Labor
The Maryland Department of Labor is committed to safeguarding and protecting Marylanders. We're proud to support the economic stability of the state by providing businesses, the workforce, and the consuming public with high-quality, customer-focused regulatory, employment, and training services. For updates and information, follow the Maryland Department of Labor on Twitter (@MD_Labor), Facebook and visit our website.