Why Madera County Workforce
Industry-Specialized Support
We understand that workforce needs vary by industry. Our team works with employers across key sectors in Madera County to provide support that reflects the realities of your business, your workforce, and your hiring environment.
Employer Incentives
We help employers take advantage of programs and resources that reduce hiring costs, support workforce development, and strengthen long-term business stability. To determine eligibility and access these programs, connect with a Madera County Workforce Business Specialist.
Tax Credits
Explore available tax credits and programs that reward hiring and workforce investment, helping offset costs while supporting business growth.
California Homeless Hiring Tax Credit
Employers who hire individuals experiencing homelessness may be eligible for tax credits ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 per employee, based on hours worked. Businesses can claim up to $30,000 per taxable year. This program is available for tax years beginning January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2026.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
Businesses that hire individuals from eligible target groups may receive federal tax credits of up to $9,600 per employee, depending on eligibility and hours worked. For more information, visit the EDD website or connect with a Business Specialist.
California Competes Tax Credit
An income tax credit available to businesses that are expanding or relocating to California. Awards are based on criteria such as job creation, projected growth, and overall economic impact.
Manufacturing and Research & Development Equipment Exemption
Qualified manufacturers and research and development companies may receive a partial sales and use tax exemption on equipment purchases and leases, helping reduce the cost of investment in operations and innovation. For more information, please see the brochure or contact a Business Specialist.
Subsidized Employment
Reduce hiring risk through programs that provide added protection and reassurance, making it easier to bring on candidates you might otherwise overlook.
Expanded Subsidized Employment (ESE)
Administered through the Department of Social Services (DSS), this program reimburses employers for wages paid to eligible new hires over the first six months:
- 100% of wages (Months 1–2)
- 50% of wages (Months 3–4)
- 25% of wages (Months 5–6)
This structure allows employers to train new employees while significantly reducing upfront labor costs. To learn more or get started, contact DSS/ESE at (559) 479-4855.
Transitional Job Training (TJT)
Transitional Job Training (TJT) provides employers with an opportunity to host participants in temporary, subsidized work placements that help individuals build skills, gain recent work experience, and prepare for long-term employment. The program supports workforce development while helping employers reduce hiring costs and expand capacity with reduced risk.
Paid Work Experience (PWEX)
Offers temporary placements for out-of-school young adults (ages 18–24), giving employers access to motivated individuals interested in gaining experience in their chosen field. Employers benefit from a pipeline of potential future hires while reducing recruitment costs.
Risk Reduction
Streamline your hiring process with recruitment assistance, candidate screening, and access to workforce networks that connect you with qualified applicants.
Fidelity Bonding Program
Provided through the Employment Development Department (EDD), this program offers no-cost bonding insurance to employers hiring at-risk individuals, including those with past justice involvement. It protects against potential loss due to theft or dishonesty, helping reduce perceived hiring risk. For more information about our Fidelity Bonding services, view the program information sheet or connect with a Business Specialist.
Support for Every Stage
Whether you’re starting out, continuing to grow, or navigating change, we provide workforce support that aligns with your business needs at every stage.
New Businesses
Starting a business means building a team from the ground up and making the right hiring decisions early.
We help you define roles, connect with qualified candidates, and access hiring tools that make it easier to find the right fit. You can also get guidance on workforce planning, job descriptions, and local labor market conditions so you can build your team with confidence from the start.
Expanding Businesses
As your business grows, your workforce needs become more complex.
We support expansion by helping you scale hiring efforts, strengthen your current team, and explore training programs that keep your workforce aligned with your growth. From filling multiple roles to upskilling employees, we help you plan ahead and avoid gaps that can slow your momentum.
Closing or Downsizing Businesses
Workforce transitions can be difficult, but you don’t have to navigate them alone.
Madera County Workforce provides Rapid Response services to support employers during layoffs or closures. We work with your business to coordinate resources for affected employees, including job placement assistance, training opportunities, and access to unemployment and reemployment services.
This approach helps ease the transition for your workforce while supporting compliance and reducing disruption for your business.
Stay Connected
Stay informed about hiring incentives, job fairs, tax credits, workshops, and business resources.
Text WORKFORCE BUSINESSES to (559) 543-5199 to opt in for updates, or sign up to subscribe to our newsletter.
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Success Stories
Real people. Real progress. See how Madera County residents have found jobs, built skills, and created new opportunities for themselves and their families.
Contact a Business Specialist
Workforce Assistance Center
California Relay System: 711
Madera, CA 93637
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