Minnesota Job Training for Single Mothers (2025 No‑Fluff Guide)

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, numbers‑forward guide to getting career training in Minnesota if you’re parenting on your own. It tells you exactly where to apply, what to bring, how long things typically take, and what to do if Plan A doesn’t pan out. Links go to official Minnesota and federal sources or established nonprofits.

Tip: If you only have 15 minutes, start with the Quick Help Box and the 7‑Day Action Plan.

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Quick Help Box

• Call CareerForce to get matched to training you qualify for: 651‑259‑7500. Or search locations and programs at Find a CareerForce location. CareerForce is Minnesota’s one‑stop workforce system and the fastest gateway to tuition help, short‑term training, apprenticeships, and job placement. (careerforcemn.com, careerforce.mn.gov)
• If you get SNAP, ask about SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) for free training, fees, books, plus help with transportation/child care: start at SNAP Employment & Training. (dcyf.mn.gov)
• If you were laid off, ask about Dislocated Worker services now (tuition‑covered training and support): go to Dislocated Worker at CareerForce. (careerforce.mn.gov)
• Need child care while you train? Apply for Minnesota’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). For 2025 entry income limits (family of 3: $54,360/yr), see CCAP eligibility and copay schedule. Rates are set at least at the 75th percentile of market rates and update again starting Jan 1, 2025. (dcyf.mn.gov, house.mn.gov)
• Paying for school? 2025‑26 Federal Pell Grant maximum is $7,395\ast \ast ;MinnesotaPostsecondaryChildCareGrantisupto\ast \ast$6,500 per child per year. Check with your college financial aid office and see Pell 2025‑26 official notice and MN OHE Child Care Grant. (fsapartners.ed.gov, ohe.state.mn.us)
• Transportation: Metro Transit’s TAP card is $1 per ride for income‑eligible riders. Apply online or in person: Transit Assistance Program (TAP). (metrotransit.org)

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The 7‑Day Action Plan (start here)

• Day 1: Call CareerForce at 651‑259‑7500 and say, “I’m a single parent looking for training funds fast.” Ask for screening for WIOA Adult, Dislocated Worker, and Adult Career Pathways. If you can’t call, use the CareerForce Locations finder to message a local office. (careerforcemn.com, careerforce.mn.gov)
• Day 2: If you receive SNAP, contact a SNAP E&T provider (find the map via SNAP E&T). Ask specifically about help with books, testing fees, tools, transportation, and child care while you train. (dcyf.mn.gov)
• Day 3: Line up child care. Apply for CCAP today; CCAP can cover training, school, and job search time. See CCAP program page and your county’s human services page from that link. Bring pay stubs and class schedule as soon as you have them. (dcyf.mn.gov)
• Day 4: Pick a training from the state’s Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) to be sure tuition assistance can pay for it. Start with Minnesota ETPL/Training Program Finder. (careerforce.mn.gov)
• Day 5: If you were laid off, ask your counselor about Dislocated Worker training and support (child care, transportation, uniforms). See allowed supports in MN Stat. 116L (state Dislocated Worker law). (careerforce.mn.gov, revisor.mn.gov)
• Day 6: If you’re going to college or a credit program, file FAFSA for Pell and Minnesota grants; ask the aid office about Minnesota Workforce Development Scholarships ($2,500peryear\ast \ast ;manycollegesofferthem)andthePostsecondaryChildCareGrant(upto\ast \ast$6,500 per child). (minnstate.edu, ohe.state.mn.us)
• Day 7: If you need a paid “earn‑while‑you‑learn” option, contact Apprenticeship Minnesota (651‑284‑5090) to get matched to a registered apprenticeship. See details at Apprenticeship Minnesota. (dli.mn.gov)

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What training money is out there for Minnesota single moms?

Below is a snapshot of the main routes Minnesotans use to get tuition covered and land a job with benefits. Use the tables to compare your best first step.

Quick Program Snapshot (who pays for what)

Reality check: Each program has its own rules, documentation, and waitlists. It’s common to braid funding—example: WIOA pays tuition, SNAP E&T covers bus passes and books, CCAP covers child care.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call CareerForce at 651‑259‑7500 and ask for a warm handoff to another provider in your county; or ask about the next intake for Adult Career Pathways/Pathways to Prosperity in your region. (careerforcemn.com)

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CareerForce + WIOA Adult and Dislocated Worker: Your primary gateway

Action first: Contact CareerForce and ask for eligibility screening. Phone: 651‑259‑7500. Or use the map at CareerForce locations. (careerforcemn.com, careerforce.mn.gov)

• What it can cover: counselor‑approved training, job search help, and “support services” (transportation, childcare, tools, uniforms) if tied to your plan. Minnesota’s state Dislocated Worker law allows these supports to help you participate and get re‑employed. (revisor.mn.gov)
• Who qualifies: WIOA Adult prioritizes low‑income adults and those on public assistance; Dislocated Worker serves people laid off through no fault of their own (often UI‑eligible). (mn.gov, careerforce.mn.gov)
• Picking a school: Use the state’s ETPL and Training Program Finder so your tuition can be paid. (careerforce.mn.gov)
• Timelines: Intake to approved training plan often takes 1–3+ weeks depending on caseloads and how fast you supply documents. Plan ahead for orientation dates and prerequisite testing.
• Real‑world example: A St. Paul mom laid off from hospitality used Dislocated Worker funds to finish a one‑year medical coding certificate. SNAP E&T covered testing fees; CCAP helped with daycare; Metro Transit TAP cut commute costs to **$1\ast \ast perride.Sheplacedat$22.50/hour.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re told funds are tight, ask to be referred to a current Adult Career Pathways (Pathways to Prosperity) grantee in your region; DEED awarded new P2P grants in late 2023–2024 that are running through 2025 and may have open seats. (mn.gov)

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SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T)

Action first: Verify you’re on SNAP and ask to enroll in SNAP E&T. Start at SNAP E&T program page and use “Find a provider.” (dcyf.mn.gov)

• What you get: career planning, job search, training for in‑demand jobs, and financial supports (like transport and supplies) provided through SNAP E&T providers. Minnesota operates a 50% reimbursement model for providers—your case manager can explain what supports are covered. (mn.gov, dcyf.mn.gov)
• Good to know: If you’re subject to SNAP time‑limited work rules, SNAP E&T participation can help you keep benefits while you train. (dcyf.mn.gov)
• Timelines: Many providers enroll monthly; some have faster rolling admission for short courses.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your local provider is full, ask your county human services worker for another approved SNAP E&T provider in your area or request a referral to CareerForce for WIOA services. (dcyf.mn.gov)

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MFIP and the Diversionary Work Program (DWP): Training while you meet work rules

Action first: If you’re in MFIP or DWP, contact your job counselor immediately to revise your Employment Plan to include approved training or education.

• Requirements: Minnesota law generally requires single parents to do at least 130 hours/month of work activities if your youngest child is 6+; 87 hours/month if under 6. Missing hours without “good cause” can trigger sanctions, so keep your Employment Plan current. (revisor.mn.gov)
• Where to learn/apply: See official MFIP page (assets limit $10,000, employment services, child care help, how to apply) and DWP overview at the Department of Children, Youth, and Families. Apply online at MNbenefits. MFIP | DWP. (dcyf.mn.gov)
• Reality check: DWP is just four months—only short trainings usually fit. If you need longer training, talk with your worker about transitioning from DWP to MFIP with an education plan.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your worker about co‑enrollment with CareerForce WIOA Adult or Adult Career Pathways for tuition support, and CCAP for child care during class and study time. (careerforcemn.com, mn.gov)

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Registered Apprenticeships (earn while you learn)

Action first: Call 651‑284‑5090 or email dli.apprenticeship@state.mn.us to connect with Apprenticeship Minnesota. Browse the program directory. (dli.mn.gov)

• Pay example: The Limited Energy Installer apprenticeship posts 2025 apprentice wages from $20.48\ast \ast to\ast \ast$33.22 per hour, with a journey wage of $35.78 (wages vary by trade/contract and are only one example). (statewidelea.org)
• Good for: women interested in skilled trades, IT, manufacturing, health care tech, and more. You’re an employee with benefits while training.
• Reality check: Most apprenticeships require passing drug screens and physicals; many are full‑time and may start early. Night classes cover the classroom hours.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Apprenticeship MN about pre‑apprenticeship or union training centers that help you qualify, or look at short, employer‑linked programs via Adult Career Pathways/Pathways to Prosperity. (mn.gov)

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Adult Career Pathways (Pathways to Prosperity and more)

Action first: Ask CareerForce or your county worker which Adult Career Pathways providers are enrolling now in your region (health care, IT, CDL, office/admin, manufacturing). Program seats are free to eligible participants. See DEED’s ACP overview. (mn.gov)

• What it looks like: contextualized classes (often with ABE/ESL support), paid certifications, job placement help, and support services. DEED invested in new grantees to prepare Minnesotans for high‑growth fields—scan the press release to see examples (Summit Academy OIC, Hired, International Institute of Minnesota, Rural MN CEP, White Earth TCC, and more). (mn.gov)
• Reality check: Programs have set start dates and attendance rules. Ask about laptop/tech access and required immunizations for health programs.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your first choice is full, ask for another provider in the same sector (e.g., if a Twin Cities health care class is full, ask about Saint Paul/Minneapolis alternates or Greater Minnesota cohorts). (careerforce.mn.gov)

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Child care while you train: CCAP details you can use

Action first: Apply for CCAP through your county or Tribal Nation from the state’s page, especially if you’re working, in training, or job searching. Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). (dcyf.mn.gov)

• Entry income example (Oct 2024–Oct 2025): family size 2: $44,006\ast \ast ;3:\ast \ast$54,360; 4: $64,714 (before taxes). Copays apply and change with income. See “CCAP Copayment Schedules DHS‑6413M” on the program page. (dcyf.mn.gov)
• Rate updates: Minnesota law sets maximum CCAP rates at the at‑least 75th percentile of market rates, with updates every three years beginning Jan 1, 2025, so max reimbursements adjust with the market. Actual dollar caps vary by county and provider type. Ask your worker or provider for the current county rate chart. (house.mn.gov, revisor.mn.gov)
• Tip: Tell your CCAP worker you’re in an approved employment/training plan (WIOA/MFIP/SNAP E&T). Provide your class schedule as soon as it’s final.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re over income for CCAP, ask your college about the Minnesota Postsecondary Child Care Grant (up to $6,500 per child per academic year) and whether infant care add‑ons apply in your county. (ohe.state.mn.us, house.mn.gov)

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Paying for college or credit‑bearing certificates

• Federal Pell Grant (2025–26): up to $7,395\ast \ast fortheyear;minimumaward\ast \ast$740. You must file the FAFSA. Awards can reach 150% of the scheduled amount if you study in summer, too. See the U.S. Department of Education notice. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• Minnesota Workforce Development Scholarships: 2,500 per year** at Minnesota State community & technical colleges (many campuses match for up to **5,000/year; lifetime caps apply). Check your campus (e.g., M State, Saint Paul College) or see Minnesota State’s overview. (minnstate.edu, minnesota.edu, saintpaul.edu)
• Minnesota Postsecondary Child Care Grant: up to $6,500 per child per academic year (pro‑rated by enrollment intensity; may increase 10% for infant care in some counties). Apply through your college’s aid office. (ohe.state.mn.us, ohe.mn.gov)
• Minimum wage reality: As of Jan 1, 2025, Minnesota’s state minimum wage is $11.13/hour (higher in Minneapolis and St. Paul). Use this when you estimate living costs during training. (dli.mn.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your college about emergency aid (EAPS grants are funded at campuses), payment plans, or book vouchers; and ask CareerForce about combining WIOA or Dislocated Worker funds with financial aid. (ohe.mn.gov)

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Transportation and technology help

• Metro Transit’s TAP: **$1\ast \ast perrideforayearonceactivated(2.5‑hourtransfer).In2025,localbus/railfaresarebeingsimplified—TAPremains$1. Apply online or in person. Customer Relations: 612‑373‑3333. (metrotransit.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your SNAP E&T or WIOA counselor about mileage reimbursements or bus cards tied to your training plan. (dcyf.mn.gov)

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Real‑world Minnesota examples (short and true‑to‑life)

• Healthcare admin in 6 months: A Hennepin County mom on SNAP used SNAP E&T to cover fees and bus cards while taking an ETPL‑approved Medical Admin certificate. CCAP covered daycare during class. She then used a Minnesota State Workforce Development Scholarship ($2,500) to stack another credential. (careerforce.mn.gov, minnstate.edu)
• Re‑skilling after layoff: A Duluth‑area mom laid off from retail accessed Dislocated Worker to get a 1‑year IT support certificate and got help with a $1 TAP card during school. (careerforce.mn.gov, metrotransit.org)

These composites reflect how programs work together in practice; ask your counselor to “co‑enroll” you so supports stack correctly.

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Short‑term, no‑cost training from trusted Minnesota nonprofits

Action first: Call or email, ask about next start dates, whether programs are on the ETPL, and what childcare/transport supports they can coordinate.

• Summit Academy OIC (Minneapolis): 20‑week accredited trainings (IT, Construction, Financial Services, Healthcare), often at no out‑of‑pocket cost; admissions: 612‑377‑0150; info sessions twice monthly. About Summit trainings. (saoic.org)
• American Indian OIC – Takoda Institute (Minneapolis): no‑cost vocational training in healthcare, IT, logistics (3 weeks to 6 months). Takoda Institute, text 612‑584‑1192 for enrollment session. (takoda.org)
• Goodwill‑Easter Seals Minnesota: WIOA and Dislocated Worker services, 10–12 week industry trainings (automotive, construction, finance), placements, and support; main phone 651‑379‑5800; program line 612‑286‑8597. Goodwill‑Easter Seals Employment Services. (goodwilleasterseals.org, easterseals.com)
• YWCA St. Paul – Career Pathways: short trainings (Office Essentials, CNA/CMA), job placement help; phone 651‑222‑3741; MFIP‑linked services for Ramsey County. YWCA St. Paul Employment & Economic Development. (ywcastpaul.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask CareerForce to refer you to an Adult Career Pathways grantee in your region with open seats (e.g., Rural MN CEP, Northwest Indian Community Development Center, Hired, Avivo, International Institute of Minnesota). (mn.gov)

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Application Checklist (print this)

• Picture ID and proof of Minnesota address (license/ID, lease, utility bill).
• Proof of income for the last 30–60 days (pay stubs, UI benefits, child support received).
• If applicable: SNAP or MFIP case number and worker’s name/phone.
• Birth certificates or SSNs for your children (for CCAP and school benefits).
• Class schedule or training plan (as soon as you have it).
• Résumé (if you have one) and any transcripts/certificates.
• Transportation and child care plans (tell your counselor early if you need help with these to start).

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting to ask for child care: CCAP and campus child care grants get backlogged. Apply as soon as you know your training dates. (dcyf.mn.gov)
• Picking a program that’s not on the ETPL: If your training isn’t on the Eligible Training Provider List, WIOA funds likely won’t pay. Use the Training Program Finder. (careerforce.mn.gov)
• Not updating your MFIP Employment Plan: School hours must be in your plan to count. Sanctions are real—talk to your worker before starting/adding classes. (revisor.mn.gov)
• Skipping the FAFSA because “I won’t qualify”: Many single parents qualify for Pell (up to $7,395) and state aid; FAFSA is required for most aid. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• Ignoring transport costs: Use Metro Transit TAP ($1 rides) or ask about bus passes and mileage reimbursements through your program. (metrotransit.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (key numbers and links)

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Eligibility rules and income numbers you asked for (2025)

• WIOA Adult “priority of service” focuses on public assistance recipients, low‑income adults, and people who are basic‑skills deficient. Low‑income is often defined using federal poverty guidelines or 70% of the Lower Living Standard Income Level (LLSIL). See the 2025 LLSIL notice and HHS poverty guidelines (family of 3: $26,650\ast \ast ;4:\ast \ast$32,150). (govinfo.gov)
• CCAP entry income examples (2025): 2‑person $44,006\ast \ast ,3‑person\ast \ast$54,360, 4‑person $64,714 (before taxes). Copayment schedules and county contact directories are on the program page. (dcyf.mn.gov)
• MFIP/DWP assets: $10,000 (excluding one vehicle per household member age 16+). MFIP work activity hours: 130 or 87 per month depending on child’s age. (dcyf.mn.gov, revisor.mn.gov)
• State minimum wage (all employers) as of Jan 1, 2025: $11.13/hour (Minneapolis/St. Paul higher). (dli.mn.gov)

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Diverse Communities: targeted resources and tips

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: CareerForce serves everyone; ask for a counselor experienced with inclusive employers. If you face bias, ask about “ban‑the‑box” and fair‑chance employers in your field. For benefits that depend on household size and dependents (Pell, CCAP), your household counts as listed in your applications. (careerforcemn.com)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS) via CareerForce for accommodations, training supports, and job placement help; ask CCAP about special needs rates and care. CCAP allows special needs rates above the base maximum when applicable. (revisor.mn.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Check federal GI Bill options with your school’s certifying official and ask about the Minnesota GI Bill (state‑level aid; amounts and eligibility vary by term and enrollment—your aid office can confirm current caps). Use CareerForce Veteran Representatives for priority services.
• Immigrant and refugee single moms (work‑authorized): Adult Career Pathways, ABE/ESL, and SNAP E&T are designed to support English learners. Check programs such as the International Institute of Minnesota (health care pathways) and CLUES (sector training); many are current DEED grantees. (mn.gov)
• Tribal citizens: You can use CareerForce and Tribal programs. White Earth Tribal & Community College and other Tribal providers operate Pathways to Prosperity projects; ask your Tribal human services or CareerForce for an active provider. (mn.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited broadband/transport: Ask for hybrid or in‑person classes near you; many ACP and ABE providers offer local cohorts. Use the CareerForce map to find the nearest office and ask about gas cards/mileage under your training plan. (careerforce.mn.gov)
• Single fathers: All programs in this guide are gender‑neutral; single fathers can access the same services.
• Language access: CareerForce and state agencies provide interpretation at no cost. Request an interpreter when you schedule.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask to be “co‑enrolled” (for example, VRS + WIOA Adult + SNAP E&T) so supports are braided. It’s standard practice in Minnesota to combine programs when eligibility fits. (careerforcemn.com)

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Resources by Region (how to get local help fast)

• Statewide helpline: CareerForce Information & Assistance Line 651‑259‑7500 (M–F 8:00–4:30). (careerforcemn.com)
• Twin Cities (examples): St. Paul CareerForce 651‑539‑4100; Bloomington CareerForce 952‑703‑7730. If you can’t reach a site, call the statewide line above. St. Paul CareerForce page | Bloomington CareerForce page. (careerforcemn.com)
• Greater Minnesota: Use the CareerForce Locations map to find your nearest office in Duluth, Rochester, Mankato, St. Cloud, Bemidji, Moorhead, Hibbing, and more. Many sites serve multiple counties and can connect you to local ACP grantees. (careerforce.mn.gov)

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Timelines: realistic expectations

• CareerForce intake to training plan approval: 1–3+ weeks (faster if your documents are ready).
• CCAP approval: varies by county; expect several weeks. Apply early and keep your caseworker updated with your class schedule. (dcyf.mn.gov)
• SNAP E&T enrollment: often within 1–3 weeks depending on provider capacity. (dcyf.mn.gov)
• Apprenticeship hiring: timing depends on openings; some trades hire seasonally. Use Apprenticeship MN for current leads. (dli.mn.gov)

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FAQs (Minnesota‑specific)

1. Where do I start if I don’t know which program I qualify for?
   Start with CareerForce at 651‑259‑7500. They screen you for WIOA Adult, Dislocated Worker, and Adult Career Pathways and connect you to local providers. (careerforcemn.com)
2. I receive SNAP—what extra help do I get for training?
   SNAP E&T offers no‑cost training plus supports like transportation and supplies through approved providers. Begin here: SNAP E&T. (dcyf.mn.gov)
3. How do I find training that WIOA will actually pay for?
   Pick from the state’s ETPL—use the Training Program Finder. (careerforce.mn.gov)
4. Can programs help with child care while I train?
   Yes. CCAP covers child care for work, school, and job search if you meet eligibility (e.g., family of 3 entry income $54,360). Ask your caseworker; see state page for copays and county contacts. (dcyf.mn.gov)
5. I was laid off—how fast can I get retraining?
   Apply with Dislocated Worker now. Supports can include tuition, certifications, and even tools or childcare tied to your plan. Start at CareerForce: Dislocated Worker Services. (careerforce.mn.gov)
6. What’s the Pell Grant for 2025–26?
   Up to $7,395\ast \ast (minimum\ast \ast$740) for the year; file the FAFSA. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
7. I’m on MFIP—can I count school toward my hours?
   Yes, but it must be in your Employment Plan. General hours are 130 or 87 per month depending on your child’s age. Coordinate with your job counselor. (revisor.mn.gov)
8. How much is the Minnesota Postsecondary Child Care Grant?
   Up to $6,500 per child per academic year; ask your college aid office to apply. (ohe.state.mn.us)
9. What if I need to earn while I learn?
   Registered apprenticeships pay wages from day one. Contact Apprenticeship Minnesota (651‑284‑5090). Example: Limited Energy Installer apprentice wages range $20.48–$33.22/hr in 2025 (varies by trade and contract). (dli.mn.gov, statewidelea.org)
10. I can’t afford commuting. Any options?
    Metro Transit TAP offers $1 rides for a year; many training programs can also provide bus cards or mileage reimbursement. (metrotransit.org, dcyf.mn.gov)

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Tables you can use while you apply

Table A — Which path fits your situation?

Sources: Program pages at Minnesota DEED, DCYF, DLI, and U.S. Department of Education. (mn.gov, careerforce.mn.gov, dcyf.mn.gov, dli.mn.gov, fsapartners.ed.gov, ohe.state.mn.us)

Table B — Need‑to‑know numbers (2025)

Sources: DLI, U.S. Dept. of Education, MN OHE, DCYF, Metro Transit. (dli.mn.gov, fsapartners.ed.gov, ohe.state.mn.us, dcyf.mn.gov, metrotransit.org)

Table C — Where to apply (direct links)

Table D — Dislocated Worker: supports allowed (examples from law)

Source: MN Stat. 116L (Dislocated Worker program statute). (revisor.mn.gov)

Table E — Trusted nonprofit training options

(saoic.org, takoda.org, easterseals.com, goodwilleasterseals.org, ywcastpaul.org)

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“What if this doesn’t work?” — backup plans by section

• CareerForce/WIOA: Ask for co‑enrollment with Adult Career Pathways or SNAP E&T; request a referral to another provider within your Workforce Development Area. (mn.gov)
• SNAP E&T: If your provider is full, ask county/Tribal human services for another SNAP E&T provider or switch to CareerForce services while staying on SNAP for food support. (dcyf.mn.gov)
• MFIP/DWP: If training hours don’t fit your plan, ask for plan changes or short‑term classes that meet hour requirements. Keep documentation to prevent sanctions. (revisor.mn.gov)
• CCAP: If you’re ineligible or on a waitlist, ask your college for the Postsecondary Child Care Grant and on‑campus child care options; combine with family/friend care where allowed. (ohe.state.mn.us)
• Apprenticeship: If you can’t secure a spot, try a pre‑apprenticeship (often 6–12 weeks) or a Pathways to Prosperity program in the same field, then re‑apply. (mn.gov)

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Reality checks and tips

• Training funds aren’t unlimited. Some areas pause new Individual Training Accounts late in the fiscal year—ask about timing.
• Keep receipts. Many support services (bus passes, mileage) require proof.
• Use fare discounts immediately. TAP activates the $1 fare for a full year from first use—set a reminder to renew. (metrotransit.org)
• UI benefits: Minnesota has no active “training extension” for UI benefits right now. Keep your required work search up to date and attend any reemployment sessions or benefits can be denied. (uimn.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF), Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI), Minnesota Office of Higher Education (OHE), Metro Transit, U.S. Department of Education, and established Minnesota nonprofits (Summit Academy OIC, American Indian OIC/Takoda, Goodwill‑Easter Seals MN, YWCA St. Paul).

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

• Program amounts, eligibility rules, and timelines change. Always verify details with the relevant agency or provider using the official links in this guide.
• Health, safety, and legal decisions are personal. This guide is information only, not legal advice or case management.
• We take site security seriously. If you spot a broken link or security issue, please email info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it quickly.

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Sources (selected)

• CareerForce services and contacts; Dislocated Worker overview and supports; ETPL/Training Program Finder. (careerforcemn.com, careerforce.mn.gov, revisor.mn.gov)
• SNAP Employment & Training (program, provider model, time‑limited work rules). (dcyf.mn.gov, mn.gov)
• CCAP income limits and rate policy updates. (dcyf.mn.gov, house.mn.gov)
• MFIP/DWP rules; MFIP participation hours. (dcyf.mn.gov, revisor.mn.gov)
• Apprenticeship Minnesota contacts and example wage scale. (dli.mn.gov, statewidelea.org)
• Pell Grant 2025‑26; Minnesota Postsecondary Child Care Grant. (fsapartners.ed.gov, ohe.state.mn.us)
• Minnesota minimum wage 2025. (dli.mn.gov)
• Metro Transit TAP. (metrotransit.org)
• Adult Career Pathways and Pathways to Prosperity grantees. (mn.gov)
• LLSIL and HHS poverty guidelines 2025. (govinfo.gov)

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If you want, I can pre‑fill emails to your local CareerForce and a SNAP E&T provider with your situation, so they call you back with the next start date and a document list.

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• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery