TENNESSEE (WGNS News) – Tennessee employers looking to expand their businesses, train employees or fill positions in growing industries now have a new resource available through the state. The newly launched TNWorks Talent Accelerator provides a centralized online hub where employers can identify workforce needs, connect with training providers and apply for grant-supported training opportunities. The initiative, available at TNWorks.com, is designed to help businesses strengthen their workforce while creating jobs and increasing wages across Tennessee.
One of the major components of the launch is a new program called TNTalent, which was made possible through a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. The program focuses on three rapidly developing industries: nuclear energy, artificial intelligence infrastructure and advanced manufacturing. Through an online application process, participating employers can seek funding to help cover the costs of workforce training for both newly hired and existing employees. The goal is to make specialized training more affordable while helping Tennessee businesses remain competitive in industries that require increasingly technical skills.
“The debut of the TNWorks Talent Accelerator and TNTalent program marks a major step forward for workforce development in Tennessee,” TNWorks Executive Director Brooks Young said. “By aligning employers, education, and resources, we’re creating stronger outcomes for our workforce and economy.”
The launch also includes Rural Works, an initiative supported by the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development that directs state funding toward building stronger workforce pipelines in rural counties. The program will initially concentrate on healthcare occupations, helping employers address staffing shortages and develop a larger pool of qualified workers. Plans call for expanding into additional industries as workforce challenges are identified in rural communities throughout the state.
Governor Bill Lee originally launched TNWorks in November 2025 as part of an effort to strengthen Tennessee's workforce and economic development opportunities. Since that time, the initiative reports serving approximately 6,300 employers, delivering 927,000 services and connecting Tennessee businesses with $9.4 million in direct employer investment. TNWorks brings together six major state agencies and organizations, including the Departments of Labor and Workforce Development, Economic and Community Development, Human Services and Education, along with the Tennessee Board of Regents and Tennessee Higher Education Commission.
For employers in Rutherford County and across Middle Tennessee, the program could provide another avenue for addressing workforce shortages, expanding employee training and preparing workers for emerging industries. Businesses interested in participating can visit TNWorks.com to explore available resources, learn about potential funding opportunities or request a meeting. The website also outlines the state's privacy and information collection practices, including how personal information submitted through the site may be handled under Tennessee's public records laws.
