The U.S. Small Business Administration announced a free workforce development forum for Iowa manufacturers and small businesses Monday, April 13, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Iowa Hall, Room Iowa Hall A – Main Floor, at Kirkwood Community College, 6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW, in Cedar Rapids.
The event, hosted by the SBA and the U.S. Department of Labor, is part of the new Apprenticeship to Entrepreneurship Manufacturing Workforce Initiative. The initiative aims to strengthen the manufacturing workforce pipeline and create pathways for students and workers to transition from skilled trades into small business ownership.
Cooperating organizations include America’s SBDC Iowa, the Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS), the APEX Accelerator, and Kirkwood Community College.
The April 13 forum will connect students, educators, manufacturers, small businesses, resource partners, and other stakeholders. Attendees will receive guidance on workforce development and retention, capital access, and business growth opportunities.
