Pathways to Prosperity Exceeds Expectations in 2025, and is Enrolling Participants for 2026

In 2025, the Rural Minnesota Concentrated Employment Program (RMCEP) set a goal to enroll 40 participants in its Pathways to Prosperity (P2P) grant. It exceeded expectations with 48 participants, of whom 36 completed credentialed or pre-employment training.

By the end of the year, 31 participants entered employment after leaving the program, while two enrolled in post-secondary training. The average wage of participants who completed the P2P program was $25.97/hour.

“P2P is one of the most effective tools we have to strengthen our workforce,” says Stacy Belen, Lead Navigator at RMCEP. “It helps people in our communities build skills that match what local employers need… It’s also good for Minnesota because it lifts up participants who need support the most: people facing unemployment, low income, housing instability, disabilities, or language and education barriers.”

The Pathways to Prosperity (P2P), Careers Connecting Communities program is currently enrolling participants for 2026. Learn more about the P2P grant program and how it benefits job seekers, employers, and the community as a whole. 

P2P Fill Workforce Gaps in Essential Areas

P2P fulfills two essential needs in the state of Minnesota: it prepares residents to enter the workforce in six high-demand areas (healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, education,
agriculture, and distribution) while helping people who have a harder time finding jobs step into new roles and exciting careers.

P2P offers grant money to participants to support their education and job training goals. This reduces financial barriers to people who want to enter new careers.

Anyone who enrolls in P2P must be authorized to work in the United States and meet one of several target populations, or be an individual who holds a degree outside the United States and struggles to transfer credentials. 

RMCEP Meets With Enrollees to Discuss Their Career Goals 

Each participant in P2P meets with a team member at RMCEP to identify what career field they want to enter and how to achieve that goal. The process includes a preliminary conversation with RMCEP, a comprehensive meeting with an Employment Counselor, assessments and career planning, and (if the requirements are met for enrollment), the creation of a plan to complete relevant certificates, training, or coursework.

Once a participant completes their necessary education, RMCEP can assist with the job search process, including but not limited to: assistance with looking for jobs, completing applications, creating and/or updating a resume, and mock interviewing to help enrollees secure employment in their desired field.  

“Changing careers can feel overwhelming, but the beauty of P2P is that people don’t have to do it alone and they don’t have to take on major financial risk,” says Belen. “Training is funded through the DEED grant, so participants can often gain new skills without the burden of tuition.”

This is the third time RMCEP has applied for P2P grant money and will manage the program through summer 2027. Not only does P2P make education and job training affordable, but it also creates a support system for people returning to school or entering the workforce after a while.

“Our goal is simple: if you’re willing to put in the work, we’re going to meet you where you’re at and help you get where you want to go,” says Belen. “Nobody has to do this alone.”

P2P Makes Hiring Easier for Businesses

Employers also benefit from the P2P grant. RMCEP is increasing the number of qualified candidates in Northwest Minnesota, making it easier to fill positions with educated, dedicated employees. When companies work closely with RMCEP, they can highlight the skillsets and knowledge gaps they want to fill when hiring. RMCEP can also refer participants to these businesses once they have completed their training.

P2P participants graduate with industry-recognized credentials, meaning employers get
candidates who are trained, certified, and job-ready,” says Belen. “That saves businesses time, money, and onboarding costs.”

Businesses also benefit from developing a diverse employee base. People from different backgrounds bring fresh ideas and new ways of solving problems. 

Contact RMCEP to Enroll in P2P Today

RMCEP is currently pre-screening participants in the P2P program. If you meet one or more of the criteria above and are ready to step into an in-demand field, contact us. We can start the conversation about P2P and see if you qualify for grant funds.

Changing careers can be overwhelming, but you aren’t alone. Take the first step today and reach out to your nearest RMCEP location. You will be glad you did.