Grand Rapids, MI

TALENT FIRST INC

EIN 27-0193853

Education & Youth Development Job Training & Career Pathways Children & youth

Mission

TalentFirst is an alliance of West Michigan CEOs, educators, workforce leaders and policymakers dedicated to making West Michigan a leader in world-class talent by convening stakeholders, using data-driven insights, and advocating for employer-led talent solutions.

IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) public charity Contributions are tax-deductible

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About TALENT FIRST INC

TalentFirst (TALENT FIRST INC) is a Grand Rapids–based nonprofit that convenes more than 100 regional CEOs and cross-sector partners to strengthen the talent pipeline across 13 counties in West Michigan. The organization provides data, programmatic solutions, and employer-led collaboration to align education, training, and hiring practices with regional workforce needs. TalentFirst operates multiple programs and data tools — including MiCareerCompass (an AI-driven career and training navigation platform), a regional Early Literacy Dashboard and employer-facing talent solutions — and partners with community colleges, employers, workforce boards and funders to scale measurable workforce and literacy outcomes. The organization has been tax-exempt since 2010 and maintains an active web presence and ongoing program activity.

Notable achievements

Launched MiCareerCompass

Developed and launched MiCareerCompass, an AI-supported, free career navigation platform that connects adult jobseekers in West Michigan to training, financial supports, and priority interviews with regional employers.

Regional CEO Network & Convening

Sustained a CEO Council of more than 100 business leaders and convened cross-sector partners across 13 West Michigan counties to coordinate region-wide talent strategies and employer-driven initiatives.

Built Regional Early Literacy Infrastructure

Established a West Michigan Early Literacy initiative that includes a public Early Literacy Dashboard, convenings, and classroom support efforts to align early reading outcomes with long-term workforce goals.

At a glance

Total assets: $3.2M
Annual revenue: $3.2M
Tax status: 501(c)(3)Public charity
EIN: 27-0193853
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Website: talentfirst.net
On Mahalo since: September 2026

Financial figures from the IRS Business Master File, the IRS’s registry of tax-exempt organizations.

Recognition

Charity Navigator profile with an accountability and finance score in the organization’s most recent evaluation (historical three-star level recognition from rating platforms).

Public recognition for employer‑led talent strategies at a state and national level through partnerships and program highlights (including acknowledgment of Michigan’s approaches to employer-led talent by national forums).

Partnership endorsements from regional institutions and employers, including West Michigan Works!, FutureFit AI, higher education partners and major local employers who sponsor and use TalentFirst programs.

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