News Summary
McAllen has launched a free training program through South Texas College aimed at enhancing workforce skills for employees at small businesses. In partnership with the Texas Workforce Commission, eligible businesses with fewer than 100 employees can receive training funds for current and new staff. The flexible program offers various training categories, ensuring businesses can adapt to the modern workplace. Additionally, STC aims to double the participation in apprenticeship programs while promoting workplace safety through recently awarded grants. Employers can apply anytime to get their staff trained.
McAllen Welcomes New Training Opportunities for Small Businesses
In McAllen, the focus on bolstering the local economy just hit a new high! South Texas College (STC) has launched an exciting free training program aimed at enhancing the skills of workforce employees at small businesses. This initiative is part of an ongoing effort by STC’s Continuing Education and Workforce Development department in collaboration with the Texas Workforce Commission’s (TWC) Small Business Grant program. The goal is simple – to boost the skill levels of local employees and foster growth in small enterprises.
What’s on the Table?
So what exactly does this fantastic program offer? Well, small businesses in the area with fewer than 100 employees can tap into the benefits of this initiative! Eligible businesses can receive up to **$1,000 in training funds** for their current employees and **$2,000 for newly hired employees** within a year. That’s right – training can lead to growth and potential savings all around!
Flexible Learning Options
This training is not just your run-of-the-mill workshop. STC offers a variety of training options designed to fit the diverse needs of small businesses. The ***training categories*** include soft skills like leadership, customer service, and more technical skills like **Microsoft Excel**, **CPR**, and **workplace safety**. It’s all about making sure employees are well-rounded and prepared to tackle the challenges of the modern workplace.
Another key feature of this program is its *flexibility*! Classes can take place either on-site at business locations or at one of STC’s six campuses. This means employers can choose what works best for their team without disrupting daily operations.
Eligibility Requirements
Of course, there are some boxes to check! To qualify for this training program, businesses must meet certain TWC guidelines. This includes being current on all taxes and making sure employees are paid at or above the prevailing wage. These requirements ensure that the program supports businesses that are contributing positively to the local economy.
Proven Impact for the Community
STC has had its Small Business Grant program in place for over a decade, positively impacting a broad range of industries. When it comes to training, STC has found that many businesses favor taking *Microsoft Office classes*, which is especially beneficial for those transitioning from paper-based methods to more digital practices.
When can you get started? Employers can apply for the training program at any time, making it easy to kick off the process of getting their staff up to speed. In fact, training can commence within *two weeks of application approval*! And with all courses taught by skilled STC Continuing Education instructors, quality is assured.
Investing in Building a Safer Workforce
Growing the Workforce
If you’re curious about how STC’s training options can help your business grow, be sure to check out the STC Continuing Education website for more information!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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- KRGV: STC Breaks Ground on New Education and Testing Center
- Texas Border Business: RSTEF Invests in Education and Nursing Workforce
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Workforce Training
- Caller: South Texas Schools Receive Career and Technical Education Funds

Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.