Maryland Governor Larry Hogan recently announced the investment of $3.2 million into a new Employer Incentive Plan (EIP). This effort will encourage businesses to register new apprentices and increase participation in the state’s Registered Apprenticeship program.
Through this new rolling reimbursement program, businesses with more than 50 employees are eligible for reimbursement of 50 percent of the wage rate of an apprentice, up to $3,120 for a maximum of 30 hours per week. Small businesses with 49 or fewer employees are eligible for reimbursement of 75 percent of the apprentice’s wage rate, up to $4,680 for a maximum of 30 hours per week.
Employers can apply for first come, first served funds if they meet the eligibility criteria outlined in state policy. Employers should submit their initial application for the EIP immediately upon registration of a new apprentice. Once a newly registered apprentice has been verified, an initial award letter will be sent. Businesses that meet program requirements will be able to seek reimbursement when an apprentice has completed six months of the program.
Maryland has more than 11,000 registered apprentices currently working, earning, and learning in the Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program. Registered apprenticeships provide job seekers with an opportunity to earn a salary and learn through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction, while employers can develop a highly skilled workforce and grow their talent pipeline.
For more information about apprenticeship opportunities in Maryland, visit MDapprenticeship.com.
