Workforce Training Fund Program - Express Program

Geographic Scope: Massachusetts

Focus Areas: Just-in-time, off-the-shelf workforce training courses including ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) training

Program Description:
The Express Program provides quick pre-approval and reimbursement for workforce training courses. It is designed for small businesses in Massachusetts that need to quickly train employees.

Key Details:

• Maximum Award: $15,000 per business per calendar year (January 1 - December 31)
• Reimbursement Rates (as of April 1, 2026):
  • Up to 100% reimbursement for organizations with 1-50 MA W-2 employees
  • Up to 100% reimbursement for organizations with 51-100 MA W-2 employees (increased from 50% as of April 1, 2026)
  • Up to $3,000 per person, per course
• Subsidy Cap: $300 per instructional hour per course
• Eligibility: Small businesses with up to 100 MA W-2 employees at time of application

Special Features:

• Pre-approved courses available on Express Course Directory
• Quick processing and reimbursement after training concludes
• ESOL training exclusions permitted under certain conditions
• As of April 1, 2026, eligible employers may participate in both Express and General Programs simultaneously

What They Don't Fund:

• Instructional costs exceeding $300 per hour (businesses responsible for costs above cap)
• Businesses with over 100 MA employees (should apply for General Program instead)

Background:

Policy Updates: As of April 1, 2026, reimbursement rate for employers with 51-100 MA employees increased from 50% to 100% reimbursement.

How to Apply for Express Program

Application Process:

1. Apply through the Express Program application portal
2. Select pre-approved courses from the Express Course Directory
3. Submit application for pre-approval
4. Upon approval, enroll employees in training
5. Complete training
6. Submit reimbursement request after training concludes
7. Receive reimbursement

Required Materials:

• Business information (W-2 employee count in Massachusetts)
• Selected pre-approved course(s) from Express Course Directory
• Training provider details
• Employee enrollment information
• Training completion documentation

Application Format:
Online portal submission

Support Resources Available:

• Freshdesk FAQ Knowledge Bank
• Express Program One Pager with Examples
• Express Program Subsidy Estimator (tool to estimate reimbursement eligibility)
• Contact support via Freshdesk to submit questions/tickets

Key Considerations:

• Employer size (MA W-2 employees) determines reimbursement rate
• Reimbursement calculated per course, per trainee
• $300 per instructional hour cap applies
• Courses must be on pre-approved Express Course Directory