WISCAP: Receives $4.8 million grant from Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation to support increasing Wisconsin’s nursing workforce

Governor Tony Evers announced today that WISCAP will receive $4.8 million as part of the Workforce Innovation Grant Program through the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). WISCAP’s network will use Workforce Innovation funding to provide opportunities for low to moderate income individuals in 47 counties to up-skill or re-skill into high demand nursing careers such as: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Medical Assistant, Associate Degree Nurse, and Registered Nurse (RN). The announcement comes as part of Round 2 of the governor’s Workforce Innovation Grant investment that provides $40.5 million to support collaborative, sustainable and innovative pandemic-recovery plans developed by regional organizations.

 “WISCAP’s network is dedicated to helping families and individuals in Wisconsin realize true economic security, and the COVID pandemic has made it increasingly clear that a major re-investment in the nursing workforce is necessary. This grant from WEDC significantly furthers that goal,” said Brad Paul, WISCAP Executive Director.

Ten WISCAP member agencies have committed to helping up-skill or re-skill at least 142 low to moderate income individuals in a nursing profession. These member agencies include: ADVOCAP, Central Wisconsin Community Action Council, Couleecap, CAP Services, Lakeshore Community Action Program, Newcap, Social Development Commission, Southwestern Wisconsin Community Action Program, West Central Wisconsin Community Action Agency, and Western Dairyland Economic Opportunity Council.

In addition to the ten WISCAP member agencies, LeadingAge Wisconsin will partner in the award and provide on-site training opportunities and placements for up to 50 participants seeking to become a CNA. Training and placement will occur at one of LeadingAge’s members’ long-term care facilities throughout the state. LeadingAge member facilities will provide additional support for participants pursuing a CNA in areas such as financial education and workforce skills development.