**NOTE: Talent Up is now closed. 

Check out The NEW Talent Up NOVA for displaced Federal Workers!

The Talent Up Fairfax program established an innovative workforce development model connecting Fairfax County businesses with qualified talent through structured internship-to-employment pathways.  It created a high-quality talent pipeline for Fairfax County businesses. Economic Initiatives acted as the program grantor and lead, with Skill Source Group, Inc. administering the initiative to place qualified candidates in internships designed to lead to full employment.

The $2.5 million program delivered significant employment outcomes.  179 internships resulted in 78 permanent job placements – this 43% conversion rate from internship to permanent employment is a testament to the program's effectiveness in creating lasting career opportunities.  The placements averaged a wage of $26 per hour, ensuring a sustainable income that strengthens the local economy and consumer base.

Businesses benefited directly by gaining pre-vetted, productive talent while mitigating recruitment costs and risks.   A significant and unique component of the program was dedicated employer engagement managers to support businesses throughout the process.  

Despite changing economic conditions, including a nearly 50% decline in job postings in 2025, the program adapted and continued to serve. It prioritized internships with clear employment paths, facilitated wage growth, and promoted long-term retention in high-demand sectors.  Building on this success, the model is now expanding as the Talent Up Northern Virginia Initiative led by the Skill Source Group. This expansion will help address regional talent needs by leveraging the expertise of displaced Federal workers and contractors to fuel private sector growth.