The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) is offering an exciting opportunity for organizations involved in supporting disadvantaged youth. With approximately $99 million available, DOL expects to fund 75 projects nationwide to help young people gain the skills, education, and support they need to thrive and contribute to their communities.

The YouthBuild program offers alternative education that targets individuals aged 16 to 24 who have left high school without graduating. Focusing on at-risk youth, the YouthBuild program’s service delivery model is comprehensive, preparing participants for careers in a variety of industries as well as providing transportation support and access to mental health services. Through partnership, workforce development, education, and human services, the YouthBuild program promotes strategies for addressing violence in communities. Prospective project proposals are to include a combination of education, skills training, leadership development, and wraparound services.

Eligible applicants include any non-profit entity focused on pre-apprenticeship, and therefore qualified to provide education or employment training. YouthBuild programs must include the following elements:

Training and curriculum that aligns with the skill needs of employers in the economy of the state or region involved;
Access to educational and career counseling and other supportive services, directly or indirectly;
Hands-on, meaningful learning activities that are connected to education and training activities, such as exploring career options, and understanding how the skills acquired through coursework can be applied toward a future career;
Opportunities to attain at least one industry-recognized credential; and
A partnership with one or more Registered Apprenticeship Programs that assists in placing individuals who complete the pre-apprenticeship program in a Registered Apprenticeship Program.

In addition to these requirements, applicants must include construction skills training, build or substantially renovate at least one unit of housing, and partner with American Job Centers (AJCs) within the scope of their project. These requirements serve to incorporate the Construction Plus component highlighted this fiscal year.

Grant awards will range from $700,000 to $1.5 million, with a period of performance of up to 40 months. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 Eastern Time on September 16, 2024. A 25% cost match is required.

Interested in applying? USFCR offers a range of grant services to support your application. Please contact USFCR’s Grant Writing Team at (877) 252-2700 and complete the grant assessment below for further assistance and a member of our staff will be in contact.

Don't miss out on the funding that could elevate your project to the next level!