Grant Writing for Companies in CT
Upskill your team. Modernize your operation.
Connecticut’s Incumbent Worker Training Program helps manufacturers offset the cost of employee training while adopting new technologies, improving productivity, and staying competitive.
Incumbent Worker Training Program
Administered through the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s Manufacturing Innovation Fund, IWT supports employer-designed training for current manufacturing employees.
Funding at a glance
Connecticut manufacturers select the training, provider, employees, and occupations that best support their workforce and business goals. Approved costs are reimbursed after training is completed and documented.
- Designed primarily for Connecticut manufacturing employers and their current workers.
- Employers define the training need and choose the provider; there is no fixed class list.
- Pre-approval or notification is required before training begins.
View full program details
Purpose
IWT reimburses manufacturing companies for upskilling current employees, helping businesses adopt new technologies, improve productivity, and remain competitive.
Eligible employers
Private-sector companies are generally eligible if they are financially viable and current on tax obligations. Government and educational institutions are typically excluded.
Eligible employees
Current workers, typically full-time, who need skill upgrades to advance, retain employment, or avoid layoff. Employees generally must be legally eligible to work in the United States and meet applicable program requirements.
Application process
Employers submit a training plan, provider information, and employee details. Applications are accepted on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis while annual funds remain available.
Funding and reimbursement
Companies pay training costs up front and may receive reimbursement for up to 50% of approved expenses, with a maximum annual award of $50,000 per manufacturer. Exact match requirements may vary.
Covered costs
Eligible expenses may include instructor fees, curriculum development, materials, and related training delivery costs. Employee wages generally count toward the employer match rather than being reimbursed.
Performance expectations
Projects typically require strong attendance and completion outcomes, such as at least 90% attendance and approximately 90% of participants completing training and earning a certificate or credential.
Reimbursement documentation
After training, employers may need invoices, proof of payment, attendance records, certificates, payroll documentation, and a signed project training plan.
Training design
Employers determine the skills needed, select the training provider, and choose which employees and occupations to include. Industry-sector exceptions may be considered case by case.
Strategic value
The program strengthens workforce capability, supports technology adoption, reduces turnover risk, and helps manufacturers improve competitiveness without bearing the full cost of training.