DATE: November 2, 2009

ST. LOUIS, Mo. -- Gov. Jay Nixon today announced that thousands of Missourians will have free access to in-demand e-learning and certification programs from Microsoft, under an innovative public-private partnership between the state of Missouri and the technology company.

Beginning today, Missouri is one of the first six states participating in Microsoft Elevate America, which the company initially launched in February 2009. Through this program, Missouri will receive 24,750 vouchers for e-learning and certification program to be distributed across the state - at no cost to customers. These vouchers will entitle Missourians to access specialized e-learning programs for various Microsoft programs and platforms, such as Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Access Windows Server, Microsoft Exchange Server, and more.

"I'm proud that the state of Missouri is teaming up with Microsoft to provide cutting-edge, in-demand training that will help our citizens compete in the 21st-century economy," Gov. Nixon said. "The world has gone digital, and it's vital that Missourians have the knowledge and skills to land and keep the jobs of tomorrow. For folks seeking a new job, or looking to brush up their skills, Elevate America will be a tremendous resource."

"This program is designed to equip people with the critical technology skills they'll need to be employable in our changing economy," said Tony Wilson, Microsoft Regional Vice President for Government Relations. "We believe this type of public-private initiative with Missouri will play an important role in helping to rebuild the nation's economy."

The Missouri Department of Economic Development's Division of Workforce Development will administer the program, and vouchers are available starting today. To obtain a voucher, Missourians should visit the state's Web portal, www.mo.gov, and click on the Elevate America tab. To obtain a voucher, Missourians need only complete a short application, and learning can begin almost immediately. Missourians must claim their vouchers by Jan. 31, 2010.

Visit www.mo.gov or call 1-888-728-JOBS to learn more about Elevate America and other career assistance and training services available through Missouri's workforce system.

Start your technology e-learning today with Microsoft Elevate America! Claim your FREE voucher by Jan. 31, 2010!