The Grand Rapids Promise Zone Authority and the Grand Rapids Chamber are partnering on a new initiative called Career Pathways, bridging the gap between education and employment by connecting students directly to employers in targeted industries.
The Grand Rapids Promise removes financial barriers to higher education for students graduating from eligible high schools, covering tuition, fees, and books, along with credits for expenses like food and transportation.
It offers resources that now include access to business leaders through the Grand Rapids Chamber in high-demand sectors including health sciences, skilled trades, business, technology, and hospitality services.
The Chamber will provide resume guidance, interview preparation, and insights into workforce expectations.
Students will have small-group conversations with industry professionals and go on site visits to local businesses.
The partnership expands on the Promise Zone’s five-year history with Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) and new transfer agreements with Ferris State University and Grand Valley State University.
Since its launch in 2020, the Grand Rapids program has grown from 245 students to nearly 800 enrolled this past fall, supporting over 2,000 students to date.
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