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Workforce Development

Sarasota County is committed to growing its talented and diverse workforce to grow and expand with our county’s businesses. Our team connects your company with the talent-acquisition partners you need to continue finding high-quality talent to fit your business needs.

Find Quality Talent

Finding the right people makes all the difference. Our team partners with a network of workforce development agencies to help you find the right people to fill your needs.

Our Key Workforce Partners include:

CareerSource Florida

The statewide workforce policy and investment board connecting businesses with the talented workforce and training needed to succeed and grow.

Programs include Quick Response Training (QRT) and Incumbent Worker Training (IWT).

CareerSource Suncoast

Provides recruiting, training and research services to help companies hire and retain the best workers.

Programs include On The Job Training (OJT) and Employed Worker Training (EWT).

CareerEdge Funders Collaborative

Uses donated funds to create a skilled labor pool in the Manatee-Sarasota region and helps local employers find the talent they need.

Programs include Training Grants and an Internship Reimbursement Program.

Workforce Training Solutions Include

On The Job Training (OJT) is designed for employers to hire and provide occupational training to someone who might not be hired otherwise due to lack of skills or experience. Workers trained by a company are traditionally more likely to remain on a job, reducing future training costs. OJT can be done in conjunction with classroom training at local educational institutions. Employers can receive up to half of wages paid to  workers while they are in a pre-approved OJT program.

Incumbent Worker Training (IWT) grants provide funding for customized training to existing for-profit businesses. Through this grant, Florida is able to effectively retain businesses and help them stay competitive by supporting skills-upgrade training for existing full-time employees.

Quick Response Training (QRT) grants, administered by CareerSource Florida, provide funding for customized training to new or expanding businesses. Through this customer-driven program, Florida is able to effectively retain and attract businesses creating new high-quality jobs. The grants are structured to be flexible and “respond quickly” to meet the business’s training objectives.

Registered Apprenticeships provide the opportunity to custom train a ready workforce to better prepare for future needs and growth. Apprentices earn while they learn, gaining skills that enhance your bottom line. CareerSource Suncoast helps employers navigate the process of launching a successful new apprenticeship program or connect with an existing one. Assisting you with recruitment and screening of candidates and may be able to contribute funding to qualified job seekers and employers for Related Instruction or On the Job Training.

Ready to Start?

Learn more about how we can help you find the right workforce in Sarasota County.

How Can We Help?

Contact Erin Silk, VP of Business Development Services, to see how we can help you thrive in Sarasota County.

Contact The EDC

Invest in Sarasota County

The EDC of Sarasota County diversifies our local economy and helps create jobs for Floridians. Investing in the EDC empowers us to grow our economy and attract more business to our region.

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