Rule 20-201-2-2.8 - Allowable Use of FundsMS Works Funds may only be used for immediate training needs for the net jobs created and retained. Requirements for Use of Funds:
A. Not more than five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) may be awarded annually for the training needs of any one employer.B. Project cycles run for a maximum of 36 months, beginning with the date of the first hire or, in the case of retention or reskilling projects, the application date. After 36 months, the project must be closed, unless an extension is granted. AccelerateMS may recommend a longer performance period for a project at the time AccelerateMS is making a commitment to a project.C. MS Works Funds should be used as part of an overall workforce training funding plan that maximizes the value of workforce funds available from other sources, including but not limited to local, state, or federal sources. Applicants must disclose state or federal funds sought or awarded for workforce training.D. Eligible projects must meet critical training needs of the Benefitting Business to train new or existing employees in skills necessary for the operation of the business. 1. MS Works Fund grants shall be available for, but not limited to high growth industry sectors as designated by MDA.2. These funds shall place a special emphasis and priority on skill enhancement and related assessments such as nationally recognized credentials and certifications.3. Subsidized On-the-Job training for new and existing employees, hiring of instructors, apprenticeships, train-the-trainer expenses, customized training, and similar expenses approved by AccelerateMS are eligible for MS Works funding.4. Priority for training shall be given to improving the skills of unemployed and underemployed individuals.5. Training in operational strategies to improve efficiency of business operations connected to an expansion is allowed.6. MS Works grants may be used for Lean Manufacturing training, only to match the contribution to the cost of such training made by the company or group of companies.7. Educational training including, but not limited to: workplace literacy, basic skills, soft skills, and English as a second language may be included as a portion of the training plan.8. Local workforce delivery coordination and outreach may only be initiated by AccelerateMS based on specific needs of the office.E. Training Providers may request administrative cost recovery and AccelerateMS may approve on a case-by-case basis. Administrative costs will be capped at two percent (2%) but may be negotiated up to a maximum of five percent (5%) based on the justifiable costs associated with each project.F. AccelerateMS will take wage rates into consideration when making a determination on the amount of grant funds made available to the Benefitting Business. Higher wage rates are a factor in Mississippi's recruitment of industries and as such will be a factor in the determination of how MS Works Funds are allocated.20 Miss. Code. R. 201-2-2.8
Miss. Code Ann. § 71-5-353