The Turlock Chamber of Commerce has been awarded a Multiple Employer Contract of just over $500,000 from the California Employment Training Panel.

The contract, worth $514,568 in total, will be used to assist local businesses with workforce training efforts across multiple sectors in the Turlock region.

“This award is a vote of confidence in the Turlock business community,” said Allie Jeffery, executive director. “We are committed to delivering impactful training programs that help local companies grow and give employees the tools they need to advance their careers.”

This investment will support the chamber’s expanding training programs aimed at closing skill gaps, improving employee retention, and increasing earning potential for workers in rural and underserved areas of Stanislaus County. With more 4,000 local businesses relying on a skilled workforce, this funding will help small and mid-sized employers with training opportunities for their workers.

“This program isn’t just about workforce training,” said Jeffery. “It’s about creating partnerships that strengthen our local economy, and that includes collaborating with other area chambers to share knowledge, strategies, and impact.”

Businesses interested in learning more or participating in the program are encouraged to contact the chamber with their North American Industry Classification System code and detailed training needs. Priority will be given to small businesses and rural employers looking to improve workforce capabilities.

The funding was unanimously approved at the ETP’s July 18 meeting following a detailed review of the chamber’s proposal. The chamber’s increased staffing — now with three full-time employees and additional part-time support — positions the organization to effectively administer the program and ensure that smaller businesses receive equitable access to training resources.

During the ETP meeting, panel members emphasized the importance of focused outreach and measurable outcomes. Chamber leadership addressed these concerns by outlining a robust implementation plan that ensures training aligns with real employer needs from logistics and manufacturing to agriculture, healthcare, and beyond.

This announcement comes on the heels of similar awards to other organizations, including the Greater Modesto Chamber of Commerce, which recently received $408,000 to support manufacturing workforce development in June 2024.

“We’re grateful for the ETP’s support and look forward to making a real difference for businesses and workers in Turlock,” said Alan Eighmey, president of the chamber’s board of directors. “This funding allows us to expand what we do best — helping local employers.”

For more information about the program, and how it could help your business, contact Jeffrey at 209-632-2221 or via email at allie@turlockchamber.com. Visit the chamber’s website at www.turlockchamber.com.

The Turlock Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization that supports local businesses and economic growth throughout the Turlock region.