As many of you already know, the public workforce system (run by local and state workforce boards) currently spends billions annually on a variety of skill training programs. Most of these programs are designed to train or retrain workers in skills needed by local employers. State and local boards make their own decisions on what training should be utilized.
A couple of weeks ago, the Employment and Training Administration (ETA) gave approval for state and local boards to approve training programs in the area of entrepreneurship. They are encouraging local boards to build working relationships and partnerships with other state and federal agencies in this area so that customers within the system can be made aware of these other small business services. The Small Business Administration (SBA) is a good example of a Federal partner. There are also other community resources, such as Chambers of Commerce and the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), that local workforce boards are partnering with in this endeavor. As we hear from members of Congress and the Obama Administration, the best way to get the US economy going again is to get small businesses started, growing and succeeding!
So, what does this mean for ASTD members? As we know, when the economy struggles, training in unfortunately one of the items many organizations cut back on. Some of those cuts include eliminating staff in the training departments. Many of those cuts affect our members directly. Over the years, many of those individuals who have been downsized have considered going out on their own. This is a way for our members, who qualify for public training funds, to enjoy some of the benefits from these approved programs in entrepreneurship. Now you might be able to get your own small business started with some training help and possibly other assistance from other government agencies. Staff in the One Stop Career Centers are being trained in this area and are there to direct you to these and other community services and networking events for the new business owner.
For ASTD members who provide entrepreneurship training programs, this is an opportunity for you to approach state and local workforce boards about getting your programs approved for customers in the One Stop Career Centers. There is paperwork to fill out and an approval process, but this would be a great way to bring more students into your programs.
For either situation, our members should talk to the staff in their local One Stop Career Center or local workforce board executive director to ask more questions about this opportunity. You can also find more information on www.careeronestop.org
You can hear the entire webinar from ETA about this opportunity on the Workforce3One website at: www.workforce3one.org. Just find the webinar Supporting Entrepreneurial and Self-Employment Training through the Workforce Investment System.
