(A) There is established the One-Step Up Grant Program which may be utilized by businesses, non-profit agencies, governmental agencies, quasi-governmental agencies and educational institutions to raise the educational level and workforce readiness of the Kokomo community. All entities seeking grant funding under this Program shall have a physical presence within the corporate boundaries of the city.
(B) The One-Step Up Grant Program shall be administered by the Department. In the course of the administration, the Department shall:
(1) Provide outreach to businesses, agencies and institutions, pre-screen applications and provide technical assistance to applicants;
(2) Make available to businesses, agencies and institutions an application which can be analyzed in a quantitative manner by the Department to determine eligibility and merit for a loan;
(3) Review such applications and present recommendations to the Board for approval or denial of One-Step Up Grants; and
(4) Maintain all records including, but not limited to, applications for assistance, metrics necessary to describe the program's responsiveness, the number and size of existing primary sector businesses assisted and the amount of monies distributed.
(C) A business, agency or institution that is successful in their application for a One-Step Up Grant shall be eligible for a grant of up to $5,000.
(D) Monies awarded under the One-Step Up Grant Program shall be used to increase the educational level of unemployed Kokomo residents and/or employees of local businesses.
(1) Job training applicable to the employee’s present position;
(2) ISO 9000 assistance;
(3) High school equivalency courses; or
(4) Training designed to allow employees to fulfill other job responsibilities with their employer.
(E) Grant funds shall be disbursed to successful applicants in arrears, after presenting proof that the applicant has successfully completed the program outlined in the application for the grant monies, or that an eligible city resident or employee of a local business has successfully completed the program outlined in the application for the grant monies. Disbursements under this Program may be made on a semester by semester basis, yearly, quarterly or at the discretion of the Department.
(Ord. 6578, passed 4-27-09)