Strong local economies depend on clear pathways to meaningful work.
Thrive + Prosper’s Workforce Development workstream brings together employers, workforce organizations and community partners to strengthen how talent connects to opportunity across Grand Rapids.
Rather than approaching workforce challenges in isolation, this network is working to better align training programs, employer needs and career advancement opportunities so more people can access stable employment and long-term economic mobility.
Strengthening the Workforce Ecosystem
Workforce advancement is shaped by more than training and hiring alone. Wages, benefits and career timing all play a role in determining whether progress is sustainable for workers and practical for employers.
This workstream focuses on improving coordination across organizations so individuals and businesses can navigate the workforce system with greater clarity. By strengthening relationships and aligning efforts, partners are helping create clearer pathways from training to employment and advancement.
Why It Matters
Many families are working hard to build stable lives, yet access to quality jobs and clear career pathways remains uneven.
While Kent County ranks in the top 15 jobs and economic growth, we rank near the bottom in sharing that prosperity.
Workforce development helps bridge these gaps by connecting people with training, credentials and employment opportunities that support long-term economic mobility.
46%
households with enough income to cover the basic cost of living (above ALICE) in the 49507 zip code
$56,578
inflation-adjusted median household income in Southtown neighborhoods
Featured Initiatives
Together, these initiatives emphasize coordination across organizations rather than isolated service delivery to help individuals and employers navigate workforce systems with greater clarity.
Innovation Strong
A collaborative initiative aligning employers, workforce partners and training providers to better respond to evolving talent and skill needs.
YouthBuild
A workforce and education pathway that helps young people gain training, earn credentials and connect to long-term employment opportunities.
Elevate
A career navigation and coaching initiative supporting individuals in identifying, preparing for and securing employment or advancement into roles with improved wages and benefits.
Impact
305+
people hired or promoted
829+
people completing training or earning credentials
$13.90/hr
average Increase in hourly wages among people hired or promoted
216+
people with increased wages or benefits
Get Involved.
Looking for ways to support workforce opportunities in Grand Rapids?
Complete the form to learn how you can partner with employers, workforce organizations and community leaders working to expand access to training, employment and career advancement opportunities.
