Listen Live

State Awards $30 million in Funding to Help Companies Find and Train Workers

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that the Department of Economic Development (DED) has awarded $30 million through the ARPA Workforce Training Grant Program. The program is focused on helping companies address workforce shortages by recruiting and training thousands of Missourians.

“As we continue to invest in our workforce, we’re excited to announce the recipients of the Workforce Training Grant Program,” Governor Parson said. “From day one, our administration has made it a top priority to ensure employers have the workers they need to expand and grow. A stronger workforce means a stronger tomorrow, and this program will go a long way in ensuring Missouri workers can meet the demands of the future.”

The ARPA Workforce Training Grant Program, funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), was launched in August 2022. The program awarded competitive grants to a wide range of applicants and will train workers for a variety of industries including child care, health care, broadband deployment, manufacturing, and more. The grant is also aimed at helping those who need it most, encouraging recipients to train at-risk and low-income populations.

“This program is going to help employers in critical industries find the workers they need to propel our economy forward,” Maggie Kost, Acting Director of the Department of Economic Development said. “At the same time, it will equip real people with job skills that improve their lives, provide for their families, and benefit their communities.”

“Our team has worked hard to make the Workforce Training Grant Program as efficient as possible in helping Missouri’s workforce recover from the impact of the pandemic,” Kristie Davis, Director of Missouri One Start said. “This program is advancing our goal of helping workers develop their skillsets while ensuring companies can recruit the talent they need. We’re proud to make these historic investments that will have a lasting impact on our state’s workforce, economic growth, and overall wellbeing.”

For details on recipients of the ARPA Workforce Training Grant Program, please see attachment. 

To learn more about DED’s ARPA-funded grant programs, visit ded.mo.gov/arpa.

More from Local News

  • College of the Ozarks reaffirms Sabbath observance, adjusts Sunday operations

    POINT LOOKOUT, MO. — College of the Ozarks, after carefully evaluating Sunday operations, is committed to upholding its foundational values by discontinuing Sunday brunch at The Keeter Center. This step, rooted in faith, tradition, and a desire to prioritize students and employees, aligns with the values of the College.

  • Rainy Day Before a Cool, Dry Weekend

    After a day off from the rain for most, precipitation chances pick back up today as another front will bring another round of showers.

  • Missouri teen swipes first state record fish of 2025

    JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) congratulates Riley Isaacs of Bradleyville for becoming the latest state record holder for redear sunfish. The 17-year-old was bowfishing at Lake Taneycomo April 18 when he shot a 2-pound, 3-ounce fish. The previous record under alternative methods was a 2-pound, 2-ounce fish also caught from Lake Taneycomo in 2022.

  • Hollister Schools Foundation donates $4,000 for Therapy Dog

    The Hollister Schools Foundation has presented a $4,000 check to the Hollister R-V School District, funds raised during last spring’s "Coins for a Cause" fundraiser. The generous donation will be used to help purchase two therapy dogs for the district, set to debut at the start of the 2025-2026 school year. The check was presented to Superintendent Dr. Brian Wilson and Assistant Superintendent of District Operations, Dr. Sean Woods, by foundation board members Katie Adams, Ryan Gdovin, and Denise Olmstead.

  • The Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama to Celebrate 65th Anniversary on May 10th

    BRANSON, MO (April 17, 2025) – In 2025, the Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama celebrates 65 years of bringing the historic performance to over 8 million attendees. This milestone marks the show as the oldest outdoor drama in the state of Missouri, as well as maintaining its title as the original show in Branson.

Ways To Listen to KCAX Branson 4U

  • Download The App that Fits Your Lifestyle

    Click the links below if you have an Apple or Android phone to download our app. This will let you listen to us no matter where you are. On the lake? No problem, In another country? No problem. If you use Alexa at home, just say "Alexa, Play Branson4u" no matter where you live.

  • Apple store

    Download here if you have an Apple device, including iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
    This will place our app directly on the desktop of your device, making it easy to
    access with just a click. Plus, our app is compatible with Apple CarPlay, so you can
    seamlessly use it in your car too!

  • Google Play

    Download here if you have an Android device, including phone, tablet, or computer.
    This will place our app directly on the home screen of your device, making it easy to
    access with just a tap. Plus, our app is compatible with Android Auto, so you can seamlessly
    use it in your car too!

  • Alexa

    If you use Alexa at home, just say "Alexa, Play Branson4u" no matter where you live.
    Download Alexa here!

Weather on KCAX Branson 4U

Automatic Popup