NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee employers can now apply for grant-supported workforce training through the newly launched TNWorks Talent Accelerator, including help covering costs in nuclear energy, artificial intelligence infrastructure and advanced manufacturing.
The online hub at TNWorks.com lets employers identify workforce needs, connect with training providers and apply for funding. A major piece of the launch is TNTalent, backed by a U.S. Department of Labor grant, which focuses on those three growing industries for newly hired and existing employees.
TNWorks Executive Director Brooks Young said aligning employers, education and resources will create stronger outcomes for the workforce and economy. The launch also includes the Rural Works initiative, supported by the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development, which directs state funding to rural workforce pipelines and will start with healthcare occupations.
Gov. Bill Lee launched TNWorks in November 2025. Since then the initiative reports serving about 6,300 employers, delivering 927,000 services and connecting businesses with $9.4 million in direct employer investment.
TNWorks brings together six core agencies and organizations: Labor and Workforce Development, Economic and Community Development, Human Services, Education, the Tennessee Board of Regents and the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. Employers can visit TNWorks.com for resources or to request a meeting.
Officials say the Talent Accelerator is meant to make specialized training more affordable while helping companies stay competitive in technical fields. Rural Works is expected to expand beyond healthcare into other sectors as shortages are identified in rural counties across the state.
