Just thought I would share this info to the people like myself who had not heard about it. Microsoft is partnering with different states to offer vouchers for E-Learning courses and select certification exams at no cost to you. I plan on taking as many of the classes as possible. Just thought I would share.

Here is a link to their website.
http://www.microsoft.com/about/corpo...teamerica.aspx

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Ann Blackburn

Ann, what an incredible opportunity and resource - thank you for sharing this. I have no doubt once people realize what's being offered more members will be jumping at the chance to expand their skill sets.

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Stuck in startup? Stop dreaming. Start DOING!
Get the Become a Virtual Assistant eBook for just $29

Tess you are absolutely correct. I most definitely will be checking out a whole slew of free class offerings I have found on the forum. Thanks everyone for sharing! I hope to add my own useful site as I begin to grow my business.
Pat Bumpass, P.A.B. Consulting.

I just love all the information shared on this forum. Although I'm in Canada and this program is not offered here, you have perked my desire to learn more about what I don't know enough about..like PowerPoint....looks like its google time!

Angela

Bummer, Ohio is closed but thanks for the great resource. I will also be checking into library offerings.
Wendy Burney

Ann thanks for the information. I checked the site and CT is not listed as one of the states that is participating in Microsoft Elevate America free courses/certifications.

With that said, the more I think about it, it may be due to the fact that many libraries in the state offer Microsoft courses for free (courses range from beginners to advanced MS Word, PowerPoint and Excel).

To those who are beginning or looking for refresher courses, please don't forget to check with libraries in your area to see what they have to offer. I know in CT some of the libraries not only offer software training but also have business development workshops. It's also another great way of networking

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Maryann Cruz, Founder & Virtual Assistant
THINK Virtual Solutions, LLC

This is really good.....but they aren't offering in my state

This was such a great opportunity! I'm bummed because they stopped doing this is my state just a few weeks ago

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Progressive Business Partners
"Progressing your business to the ultimate level"

Darn....it's not going on in KS.

Dawn

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Dawn Kramer
www.midwestvagroup.com

Hi Ann,

Thank you for posting Microsoft's program online via the Virtual Assistant Forum. This is a great opportunity for any VA who lives in one of the states listed. I just happen to live in Washington state and work in Bellevue. I "NEVER" knew this resource was out there for us. Again, thank you for taking the time to let all of us know about this free resource. I've definitely bookmarked this link!

-Theresa

FYI - I found the following in the FAQ section.

Q: What criteria will you use to choose the successful applicants?

A:
In an effort to meet the growing demand for IT skills training, we will give priority to:

Collaborative partnerships between two or more organizations in the nonprofit, workforce development, labor and education sectors.
Organizations with strong partnerships that provide the necessary training and support services to prepare people for jobs including technology skills training and job placement services
Entities with a track record that demonstrates effective performance in serving underserved communities, particularly women and young workers
Programs and partnerships with a deep understanding of labor market needs and strong connections to local employers
Programs that demonstrate well designed plans to scale, sustain and replicate successfully across multiple organizations, regions or at a national level
Organizations and partnerships able to meet the required 50% cash match
Organizations or partnerships that provide the other critical support services individuals may need to achieve success in their career aspirations including childcare, housing support and transportation assistance. Note: support services such as childcare, transportation and housing, in support of broader technology/job skills training programs should comprise no more than 20% of the total request to Microsoft.

For this request for proposal process, we have a particular, but not exclusive, interest in working with partners who are focused on the needs of women and young workers (ages 18-25) within the broader population of underserved communities.

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www.marlexsolutions.com

Wow This is GREAT.. Thanks so much for sharing..

So sad they don't offer the vouchers in NC any more!! Will be looking into other resources!! Thanks for the post!
Jessica

I was really excited and then saw that MO is closed now. However, thanks to Maryann on the tip about Libraries. I'll be checking with my local libraries to see what they are offering.

It's closed in Georgia. Next step for me is the library. Thanks