Full Breakdown
Audit Finds $59 Million Used for Non-Credential Training in Michigan’s Going Pro Talent Fund
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Findings of the State Audit
The Michigan Office of the Auditor General released an audit that determined the Going Pro Talent Fund reimbursed roughly $59.5 million for on-the-job training that did not result in a recognized credential, certification, license, or other transferable skill. The audit covered the period from 2022 through 2025, during which the program disbursed $182.5 million in taxpayer funds to 3,296 businesses, with an average award of $55,400. Approximately one-third of all awards were used for basic employee training that failed to meet the program’s credential requirements. The auditors also noted that 2,245 unfunded requests—totaling about $93 million—might have qualified for funding had the rules been applied consistently.
Program Background
Going Pro, launched in 2014 under former Governor Rick Snyder, is administered by the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) and overseen by Director Susan Corbin. The fund is intended to support Michigan workers in obtaining advanced certificates or credentials, with a particular focus on manufacturing. Despite its popularity among employers, the program’s budget has been cut: the 2027 budget allocates $14.4 million, down from $32 million the prior year, a 40 % decline.
Official Statements & Responses
Rep. Ann Bollin, R-Brighton and chair of the House Appropriations Committee, emphasized that taxpayers expect resources to be used effectively and that the audit shows “substantial improvements are needed.” LEO has disputed many audit findings, defending reimbursements that did not lead to credentials as a legitimate form of on-the-job training.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Taxpayers are investing tens of millions of dollars in this program each year and they expect those resources to be used effectively and consistent with the program’s purpose,” — Rep. Ann Bollin
- “This report shows substantial improvements are needed.” — Mike Murray, a spokesperson for the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity
- “The purpose of the Going Pro Talent Fund is to help Michigan workers gain valuable skills and credentials that will serve them throughout their careers,” — Rep. Ann Bollin
- “Unfortunately, we continue to see the same troubling pattern across state government: millions of taxpayer dollars are being spent, but basic oversight and accountability are missing,” — Rep. Ann Bollin