MHEC Innovation Grant to Support Launch of Statewide College and Career Attainment Network in Wisconsin
The Midwestern Higher Education Compact (MHEC) has awarded a multi-partner collaborative a $250,000 strategic impact and innovation grant to lead the creation of a Wisconsin College and Career Attainment Network. The initiative aims to align postsecondary education and workforce development efforts for better outcomes for all Wisconsinites.
The grant is the first awarded in a new MHEC program to support high-impact, collaborative initiatives that address state needs and that align with the MHEC’s vision to strengthen postsecondary education and advance regional economic vitality. Each of MHEC’s 12 member states can apply for a grant for up to $250,000.
This initiative, advanced by all Wisconsin MHEC Commissioners, responds to pressing challenges facing the state, especially declining enrollment due to low birth rates and an aging demographic. The initiative will also advance a unified approach aimed at increasing college-going rates to support Wisconsin’s workforce needs. It builds on statewide goals such as 60Forward, Wisconsin’s credential attainment initiative. This effort will bring together leaders from Wisconsin’s private nonprofit, two- and four-year public, and tribal colleges and universities. It also includes legislators, state agencies, and workforce partners to align education and workforce development efforts across the state. This initiative will incorporate expertise from regional economic development entities, state and local chambers, numerous community-based organizations, local college access networks and philanthropic organizations.
With support from the National College Attainment Network (NCAN), participants in the initiative will develop a shared mission, structure, and data framework to guide collaborative action. Over two years, the project will focus on building the network’s foundation, establishing sustainable funding, and fostering alignment among education, workforce, and community stakeholders.
“This initiative is a terrific example of partners coming together to support student success and workforce development,” says Susan G. Heegaard, MHEC President. “By bringing together K-12, higher education, nonprofit, and state agency leaders, this cross-sector collaboration is poised to create a profound and lasting impact in the state of Wisconsin.”
About MHEC
MHEC brings together leaders from midwestern states to develop cost-sharing opportunities, generate collaborative solutions to challenges and opportunities in higher education, and align postsecondary education to improve individual career readiness and regional economic vitality. Member states are Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
In June 2025, the MHEC commissioners approved a budget that will provide grants of up to $250,000 for each member state to pursue high-impact initiatives that align with the MHEC’s strategic plan and that are responsive to state needs in such areas as affordability, credential attainment, student success, and workforce alignment.
More information is available at www.mhec.org.