The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) has been selected as a partner agency for the new Employer Connect Program. The initiative, funded by a $5,000,000 award from the American Rescue Plan Act, aims to facilitate connections between local businesses seeking to hire new employees and individuals looking for employment.
Brandon Marley, CEO of the GCVCC, expressed the chamber’s commitment to supporting regional development and collaboration through the program. Marley stated, “We take pride in creating opportunities for the business community to learn more about regional development, training, and support resources. This new program will allow us to connect more businesses with underutilized resources available through Workforce Development, not only helping businesses hire staff, but increasing community collaboration and overall resilience.”
As part of the partnership, GCVCC will appoint a Workforce Liaison to oversee the day-to-day operations of the program. Qualifying businesses within Riverside County – District 4, with fewer than 500 full-time employees and a valid operating license, can participate in the program. The initiative will provide training to new employees, with reimbursement of up to $20 per hour for the first 90 days of employment, to help businesses strengthen their engagement strategies.
Marley highlighted the program’s focus on employee training and support services, stating, “The training provided through this program will teach employees about the many resources available within our community as well as how to identify and direct individuals to mental health services, housing assistance, and food relief programs, giving businesses and their staff the essential tools to develop and strengthen engagement strategies.”
Employers interested in participating in the Employer Connect Program can contact the GCVCC for eligibility review and enrollment. Businesses in District 4 are not required to be current members of the chamber to join the program. A total of 80 stipends will be issued to employers in District 4 through December 2025.
For further information, individuals can reach out to the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce at (760) 347-0676 or visit the GCVCC website.
