The federal WIRED Initiative, launched in November 2005, stresses the critical role the development of talent plays in creating effective regional economic development strategies.
WIRED goes beyond traditional strategies for worker preparation by bringing together state, local and federal entities; academic institutions (including K-12, community colleges and universities); investment groups; foundations; and business and industry to address the challenges associated with building a globally competitive and prepared workforce.
Grants are provided to regional partnerships recognizing that labor markets often transcend political and geographic boundaries.
In February 2006, following a Solicitation for Grant Applications, the US Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration (ETA) announced 13 regions that comprise the WIRED 1st Generation. First Generation regions face various challenges in economic development and sustainability including: remaining competitive with a global workforce; managing existing growth opportunities; and creating a more innovative economy by focusing on developing small business. First Generation WIRED Regions were awarded $15 million over three years to revitalize their local economy.
In April, 2006, ETA added 13 additional regions, then known as the Virtual Regions. These regions receiving $100,000 planning grants, were invited to participate in all WIRED related activities and were given access to the tools and resources developed. In January 2007, these regions became the 2nd Generation Regions and received an investment of $500,000. This investment supports the development of a comprehensive implementation plan. Upon completion and acceptance of this plan, each region will receive an additional $4.5 million investment over a three year period.
More information can be found about the U.S. Department of Labor's WIRED Program.