October’s Immigrant and Refugee Affairs Forum provided some exciting and important updates from the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and Human Services (DHS).

Employer Reasonable Accommodation Fund Overview

DEED’s new Employer Reasonable Accommodation Fund (ERAF) offers a way for small to mid-sized Minnesota employers to request reimbursement for expenses related to providing reasonable accommodations for job applicants and employees with disabilities. The ERAF's purpose is to encourage employment of people with disabilities by reducing any perceived or real financial barriers. In addition to processing reimbursements, the ERAF Coordinator is available for technical assistance and consultation regarding accommodations at no cost to employers. 

For questions, comments, assistance with the application, or requests for technical assistance/consultation, please contact Eraf.deed@state.mn.us.

DHS Seeking Request for Information on Assisting New Americans in the Workforce

DHS is seeking information about specialized services and supports to New Americans to enter the long-term care workforce. DHS, through its Grants, Equity, Access, and Research (GEAR) Division, is reaching out to organizations that work with New Americans. GEAR is interested in understanding various organization’s activities, relationships, and experiences in assisting New Americans. Information is due by November 20, 2023. Learn more on their website. 

Emerging Farmers Office Update

The Department of Agriculture’s Emerging Farmers Office shared information about the 2023 Emerging Farmers Conference happening Friday, November 3 and Saturday, November 4. The annual Emerging Farmers Conference serves to advance the success and sustainability of farmers who traditionally face barriers to the education and resources necessary to build profitable agricultural businesses, including immigrant farmers and farmers of color.

The Emerging Farmers Conference is free for all farmers and language interpretation is available. Due to overwhelming response, online registration is now closed. Find out more about the conference and related resources here. 

If you missed this month's forum, you can watch our discussion on DEED's YouTube channel.