Narrative: c. 4. B.

Minnesota positions subgrantees in locations to target rural areas and those specific urban areas with high unemployment rates, where most of Experience Works and other sub–grantee SCSEP positions are now concentrated. In general, rural areas have higher unemployment than any other areas other than inner cities, and competition for available jobs is more intense. Without up–to–date in–demand skills, an older, disadvantaged job seeker is unlikely to find work, and often these training and support services cannot be fully provided by host agencies or without cost from other community resources.

Minnesota will expand training with the small businesses that are the primary private sector employers of SCSEP participants. Over the last decade, small businesses have generated 60 to 80 percent of net new jobs annually. In many areas, small businesses may be the only source of jobs for job seekers, particularly when those workers are low–income and elderly. Working with small business employers in the rural and urban area to provide training has proven a successful placement model.

In addition, transportation is a major problem for many rural participants, particularly for those in rural areas who do not have cars. More support service dollars will expand staff ability to work with community partners to address this problem.