Manatee Sarasota Workforce Funders Collaborative secures $1.5M

A new work force collaborative in Manatee and Sarasota counties has received a $1 million grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and additional funding to launch programs.

The Manatee Sarasota Workforce Funders Collaborative focuses on moving low-wage workers into higher-paying jobs while providing businesses with skilled employees, a release said.

The collaborative is concentrating on four industries – health care, manufacturing, transportation and technology – because they provide career paths and family-sustaining wages.

The grant will be used to launch programs to provide skilled health care workers in Manatee and Sarasota counties. It will be leveraged by $500,000 from collaborative members, the release said.

Members include Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice, Bradenton’s Central Community Redevelopment Agency, Suncoast Workforce Board, Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, local hospitals and the Knight Foundation. Gulf Coast Community Foundation will oversee the fiscal operations of the collaborative.

Read more: Manatee Sarasota Workforce Funders Collaborative secures $1.5M – Tampa Bay Business Journal