FY27 GROW RFR.pdf

REQUEST FOR RESPONSE

Grants for Registered Apprenticeship Opportunities in the Workforce (GROW)

COMMBUYS # BD-27-1043-DAO01-32500-131635

ISSUE DATE: 07/24/26

Purchasing Department Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development Address One Ashburton Place, Ste. 2112 City, State, Zip Code Boston, MA 02108 Procurement Contact Person Carol McQuilken E-Mail Address Carol.M.McQuilken2@mass.gov Grant Opportunity Name/Title GROW Apprenticeship Grants COMMBUYS Bid Number BD-27-1043-DAO01-32500-131635

1. Purpose of Procurement:

This procurement targets several specific objectives related to expanding and diversifying registered apprenticeship programs in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. It is anticipated that this RFR will result in multiple awards as outlined below.

The Healey-Driscoll Administration has led major new investments to expand Registered Apprenticeship to high-growth industries and to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in the construction and building trades. DAS currently services more than 1,000 Registered Apprenticeship programs with more than 600 sponsors supporting over 9,000 apprentices annually.

Increasing access and opportunity for Massachusetts residents and new arrivals is critical in attracting, retaining, and developing the talent industries and employers need today and for the Commonwealth’s future. Nationwide, there are over 640,000 active apprentices in more than 20 industries encompassing over 1,000 apprenticeable occupations. As Registered Apprenticeship programs expand beyond traditionally recognized occupations like construction trades and into sectors such as early childhood education, healthcare, and life sciences, DAS is committed to supporting high-quality programs that are inclusive and accessible.

As provided by this procurement, state line-item apprenticeship grants will be issued in alignment with the DAS Five-Year strategic plan and will be further complemented by federally funded apprenticeship grants awarded to the Commonwealth and intended to achieve similar goals. EOLWD may utilize all available funding streams pursuant to this procurement to maximize the effective, fiscally sound, and efficient use of public monies.

Accordingly, funding sources available through this procurement may include:

• Massachusetts Apprenticeship State Line-Item, per 7003-0151 (“State Line-Item”)

• Additional funds as may be identified by EOLWD mailto:Carol.M.McQuilken2@mass.gov

Procurement Categories.

• Category 1: GROW Expansion Industry Apprenticeship.

• Category 2: GROW Construction & Building Trades Inclusion Apprenticeship.

• Category 3: GROW Innovation Grants.

• Category 4: GROW Pre-Apprenticeship Training and Services.

• Category 5: GROW Planning Grants.

Applicants may apply for funding to support one or more of these strategies.

PLEASE NOTE: THE FACT THAT AN APPLICANT SUBMITS A RESPONSE TO THIS EOLWD APPRENTICESHIP

GRANT OPPORTUNITY DOES NOT MEAN THAT THE BIDDER/APPLICANT WILL BE AWARDED A

GRANT/CONTRACT. THE SUBMISSION OF AN APPLICATION BY ANY BIDDER/APPLICANT CREATES NO

OBLIGATION WHATSOEVER ON THE PART OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS, THE

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF LABOR AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT, OR THE DIVISION OF APPRENTICE

STANDARDS TO AWARD A GRANT TO OR ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH ANY PARTICIPANT.

2. Applicable Procurement Law.

This Bid is issued under M.G.L. c. 7, § 22; c. 30, § 51, 52; and 801 CMR 21.00 (Goods and Services)

3. Relevant Legal Authority.

For purposes of this procurement, Applicants are expected to comply with all sources of Federal and State guidance currently in effect and as periodically amended, related to Registered Apprenticeship in the Commonwealth. This includes, but is not limited to the following: 29 U.S.C. § 50; 29 CFR 29, 30;

M.G.L. c. 23, §§ 11E-11W, inclusive; M.G.L. c. 151B; 454 CMR 26.00; all applicable USDOL guidance, including circulars and issuances, as applicable; EEOC guidance; etc.

4. COMMBUYS.

Applicants are solely responsible for obtaining all information distributed for this Grant Opportunity via COMMBUYS. COMMBUYS provides Applicant registration functionality at no charge. To register, Applicants go to COMMBUYS and click on the “Register” link on the front page. For COMMBUYS technical support, please contact the OSD Help Desk at OSDHelpDesk@mass.gov or call during normal business hours (8 a.m. – 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday) at 1-888-627-8283 or 617-720-2197. It is the responsibility of the Applicant/Grantee to maintain an active registration in COMMBUYS and to keep current the email address of the Applicant’s/Grantee’s contact person and to monitor that email inbox for communications from EOLWD/DAS, including requests for clarification. EOLWD/DAS and the Commonwealth assume no responsibility if a prospective Applicant’s/Grantee’s designated email address is not current, or if technical problems, including those with the Applicant’s/Grantee’s computer, network mailto:OSDHelpDesk@mass.gov or internet service provider (ISP) cause email communications sent to/from the Applicant/Grantee and the Purchasing Department to be lost or rejected by any means including email or spam filtering. All Applicants who are awarded a grant resulting from this Grant Opportunity if any, are required to maintain an active account during the duration of the grant, by reviewing their registration information regularly and maintaining its accuracy. Applicants must disclose any potential conflicts of interest, whether direct or indirect, arising from an Applicant’s current or previous contracts or Applicant’s marketplace offerings.

EOLWD will evaluate whether potential conflicts would interfere with an awarded Applicant’s work on a case-by-case basis.

5. Estimated Number of Awards.

The number of awards will vary by category based on the available funding and number and quality of applicants. EOLWD may award more or fewer contracts (or none) if doing so is in the best interests of the Commonwealth.

6. Contract Duration.

Contract Duration Number of Options Number of Years/Months

Initial Contract Duration Awards through June 30, 2027.

Renewal Options 1 or 2-year options depending on Category.

Subject to available funding, and at the discretion of the DAS

7. Eligible Applicants. Eligible applicants include MassHire Workforce Boards, MassHire Career Centers, industry and business associations, training associations, labor unions, joint labor-management training consortiums, community-based organizations, non-profit organizations, for-profit entities, employer consortiums, secondary schools, two- and four-year post-secondary colleges and universities, consulting entities, or other consortiums. This is not an exhaustive list.

8. Applicant in Good Standing. Applicants must be in full compliance with all obligations to the Department of Unemployment Assistance, Department of Revenue, Department of Industrial Accidents, and any other obligations to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This includes ALL partners within a consortium grant. Entities that are presently debarred, suspended, or proposed for debarment are ineligible. Applicants found to be non-compliant may be removed from consideration.

9. Additional Applicant Terms:

• Entities Eligible to Use the Resulting Contract. EOLWD reserves the right to add or remove additional authorized users during the contract term.

• Multiple Categories. Applicants may apply for more than one category of funding.

• Additional Funds Availability. If additional funds become available, EOLWD reserves the right to increase the maximum obligation to some or all contracts executed/grants awarded because of this Grant Opportunity, execute contracts with/award grants to Applicants not funded in the initial selection process, or extend the duration period.

• Acceptance of Applications. EOLWD reserves the right to only consider submissions that, according to EOLWD’s sole judgment, are complete and responsive to the requirements and include all required application documents. Applications that do not meet the technical requirements (i.e., incomplete application or missing documentation) may not be processed.

• Non-Compliance. EOLWD reserves the right to suspend or revoke the contract for funding at any time and for any reason, including not limited to use of funds for items not expressed in the Statement of Work, non-compliance with RFR requirements, etc.

• Completion Data and Review. Grant recipients must provide accurate demographic and completion data for all participants and provide data to or participate in compliance and monitoring reviews conducted by Massachusetts Division of Apprentice Standards (DAS), when applicable.

• Award Notification. Contact during the review process does not automatically indicate selection or funding. Only proposals selected for funding will be notified. Services must be rendered during the grant period to be eligible for grant funding.

10. Applicant Categories.

Category 1: GROW Expansion Industry Apprenticeship

A. Program Purpose

Category 1 supports the expansion of Registered Apprenticeship Programs in industries that include, but are not limited to:

• Behavioral health

• Clean energy

• Education

• Finance

• Health and life sciences

• Healthcare

• Hospitality

• Advanced manufacturing

• Technology

• Transportation

• Other sectors designated by

DAS

Successful applicants will maximize the number of individuals who enroll in and complete training through Registered Apprenticeship Programs in Expansion Industries.

Grant funds may support the addition of new registered apprentices, including costs associated with Related Technical Instruction, Supportive Services, and program administration.

B. Grant Term and Available Funding

1. Grant Term The grant term will continue through June 30, 2027. Renewal is subject to DAS discretion, grantee performance, and the availability of funding.

2. Maximum Award The maximum grant award is $325,000.

Eligible grant amounts will be determined based on the applicant’s projected employer commitments to hire apprentices. Applicants must complete the Employer Commitment Projection Table included in the application.

3. Per-Apprentice Funding Cap Grant funds are capped at $6,500 per registered apprentice.

C. Program Requirements and Performance Measures

1. Performance Measure Grant outcomes will be measured primarily by the number of apprentices registered in DAS-approved Registered Apprenticeship Programs.

2. Enrollment Deadline The initial cohort or individual apprentices should be enrolled before March 1, 2027, and, at a minimum, must have begun classroom-based or virtual Related Technical Instruction.

Enrollment of a cohort or individual apprentices after March 1, 2027, will require prior DAS approval and will be subject to the availability of funding.

D. Eligible Costs

Grant funds may be used only for costs approved by DAS and included in the grantee’s approved budget.

1. Related Technical Instruction Costs Allowable Related Technical Instruction costs may include:

• Classroom, online, or hybrid instruction

• Apprentice orientation

• Soft skills training

• Enrollment, retention, and belonging activities

• Other approved instructional or program-support services

2. Supportive Services Costs Allowable Supportive Services costs may include:

• Licensing and credentialing fees

• English for Speakers of Other Languages instruction

• Childcare costs incurred during classroom training

• Educational supplies

• Other approved work-related needs

3. Administrative Costs Allowable Administrative Costs may include staff costs associated with:

• Apprentice enrollment

• Apprentice retention

• Program administration

• Grant reporting

• Other approved administrative activities

Administrative costs must be reasonably allocated to the Registered Apprenticeship Program and approved by DAS.

7) Unallowable Costs

Wages or stipends paid directly to apprentices or mentors are not allowable costs.

Applicants that do not request funding for Related Technical Instruction or Supportive Services must explain how the training, supportive-service, and wraparound needs of participating apprentices will be funded.

E. Sponsor Status

Applicants are not required to be an existing sponsor of a Registered Apprenticeship Program at the time of application.

Organizations may apply if they intend to become a Registered Apprenticeship sponsor or are currently completing the registration process

Only costs incurred during the grant period to support an approved Registered Apprenticeship Program are eligible for funding so programs not yet registered may want to consider a planning grant.

The apprenticeship program must be registered with DAS before any program costs may be paid or reimbursed with grant funds.

F. Invoicing, Documentation, and Recordkeeping

Invoices will be based on the number of registered apprentices enrolled and verified by DAS and must be consistent with the approved budget and contract terms.

Awardees must submit the invoice form provided by DAS. Each invoice must include:

• A list of registered apprentices included in the invoice

• Approved Related Technical Instruction costs

• Approved Supportive Services costs

• Approved Administrative Costs

• Approved capacity-building costs, where applicable

• Back-up documentation for all costs

• Any additional documentation required by DAS

DAS may issue additional invoicing guidance tied to approved milestones, including:

• Apprentice registration

• Retention

• Progression

• Completion

• Other approved deliverables

Awardees must maintain complete and accurate records of all grant expenditures and make those records available during DAS monitoring or upon request.

If federal funds are used for the grant, expenses must be reported on an accrual basis.

Category 2: GROW Construction and Building Trades Inclusion Apprenticeship

A. Program Purpose

Category 2 supports the expansion of inclusive Registered Apprenticeship Programs in the construction and building trades industry.

Successful applicants will develop or incorporate outreach, recruitment, enrollment, and retention strategies designed to:

• Reach untapped talent pools;

• Strengthen the existing apprenticeship workforce pipeline;

• Expand access to apprenticeship opportunities for individuals who have historically been underrepresented in the industry; and

• Increase the number of registered apprentices in construction and building trades occupations.

Grant funds may support the addition of new registered apprentices, including costs associated with Related Technical Instruction, Supportive Services, and program administration.

B. Grant Term and Available Funding

1. Grant Term

The grant term will continue through June 30, 2027. Renewal is subject to DAS discretion, grantee performance, and the availability of funding.

2. Maximum Award

The maximum grant award is $325,000.

Eligible grant amounts will be determined based on the applicant’s projected employer commitments to hire apprentices. Applicants must complete the Employer Commitment Projection Table included in the application.

3. Per-Apprentice Funding Cap

Grant funds are capped at $6,500 per registered apprentice.

C. Program Requirements and Performance Measures

1. Performance Measure

Grant outcomes will be measured primarily by the number of apprentices registered in DAS-approved Registered Apprenticeship Programs.

Upon request, grant recipients must provide documentation demonstrating good-faith efforts to expand access and opportunities for individuals who have historically been underrepresented in the construction and building trades industry.

2. Enrollment Deadline

The initial cohort or individual apprentices should be enrolled before March 1, 2027, and, at a minimum, must have begun classroom-based or virtual Related Technical Instruction.

Enrollment of a cohort or individual apprentices after March 1, 2027, will require prior DAS approval and will be subject to the availability of funding.

3. Outreach, Recruitment, Enrollment, and Retention Requirements

Applicants must describe the outreach, recruitment, enrollment, and retention strategies they will use to increase access to Registered Apprenticeship opportunities.

Proposed strategies may include:

• Intentional pre-bid and pre-construction diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility strategies at all levels of development and construction;

• Development of diversity hiring plans and internal compliance procedures;

• Comprehensive outreach and recruitment strategies designed to create diverse, accessible, equitable, and inclusive apprenticeship opportunities;

• Articulation agreements with, and acceptance of apprentices from, registered pre-apprenticeship programs established to increase access and opportunity;

• Strategies to increase accessibility in the application and selection process, including open enrollment, extended application periods, and non-preferential hiring criteria;

• Access to individual and family support services, including transportation, childcare, tools and supplies, fees, and other services that address barriers to employment or training;

• Effective internal communication and implementation of the sponsor’s Equal Employment Opportunity Policy, including applicable Workforce Analysis requirements, Affirmative Action Plans, and Selection Procedures;

• Internal diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility training and professional-development strategies intended to enhance belonging and retention and promote work environments free from discrimination and harassment; and

• Intentional expansion of apprenticeship opportunities within an existing program or trade, including increasing cohort enrollment, expanding the number of available apprenticeship positions, increasing apprentice work hours, or enabling additional individuals to apply and participate.

D. Eligible Costs

Grant funds may be used only for costs approved by DAS and included in the grantee’s approved budget.

1. Related Technical Instruction Costs Allowable Related Technical Instruction costs may include:

• Classroom, online, or hybrid instruction;

• Apprentice orientation;

• Soft skills training;

• Enrollment, retention, and belonging activities; and

• Other approved instructional or program-support services.

2. Supportive Services Costs Allowable Supportive Services costs may include:

• Licensing and credentialing fees;

• English for Speakers of Other Languages instruction;

• Childcare costs incurred during classroom training;

• Educational supplies;

• Tools and other work-related supplies; and

• Other approved work-related needs.

3. Administrative Costs Allowable Administrative Costs may include staff costs associated with:

• Apprentice enrollment;

• Apprentice retention;

• Program administration;

• Grant reporting; and

• Other approved administrative activities.

Administrative costs must be reasonably allocated to the Registered Apprenticeship Program and approved by DAS.

4. Unallowable Costs

Wages or stipends paid directly to apprentices or mentors are not allowable costs.

Applicants that do not request funding for Related Technical Instruction or Supportive Services must explain how the training, supportive-service, and wraparound needs of participating apprentices will be funded.

E. Sponsor Status

Applicants are not required to be an existing sponsor of a Registered Apprenticeship Program at the time of application.

Organizations may apply if they Intend to become a Registered Apprenticeship sponsor or are currently completing the registration process.

Only costs incurred during the grant period to support an approved Registered Apprenticeship Program are eligible for funding. Programs that are not yet registered may wish to consider whether a planning grant is more appropriate.

The apprenticeship program must be registered with DAS before any program costs may be paid or reimbursed with grant funds.

F. Invoicing, Documentation, and Recordkeeping

Invoices will be based on the number of registered apprentices enrolled and verified by DAS and must be consistent with the approved budget and contract terms.

Awardees must submit the invoice form provided by DAS. Each invoice must include:

• A list of registered apprentices included in the invoice;

• Approved Related Technical Instruction costs with supporting documentation;

• Approved Supportive Services costs with supporting documentation;

• Approved Administrative Costs;

• Approved capacity-building costs, where applicable;

• Back-up documentation for all costs;

• Any additional documentation required by DAS.

DAS may issue additional invoicing guidance tied to approved milestones, including:

• Apprentice registration;

• Retention;

• Progression;

• Completion; and

• Other approved deliverables.

Awardees must maintain complete and accurate records of all grant expenditures and make those records available during DAS monitoring or upon request.

If federal funds are used for the grant, expenses must be reported on an accrual basis.

Category 3: GROW Innovation Grants

A. Program Purpose

Category 3 supports flexible, forward-looking projects that advance innovation in Registered Apprenticeship Programs.

Applicants may propose new or expanded strategies that:

• Pilot new training or service-delivery models;

• Test emerging technologies;

• Develop cross-sector or regional partnerships;

• Address unique workforce challenges;

• Improve apprentice recruitment, training, retention, or completion; or

• Create apprenticeship solutions with the potential for system-wide impact, scalability, or replication.

This category is intended to support discretionary projects that do not clearly fit within another grant category but demonstrate a strong potential to strengthen or expand the Registered Apprenticeship system.

B. Grant Term and Available Funding

1. Grant Term

The grant term will continue through June 30, 2027. Renewal is subject to DAS discretion, grantee performance, and the availability of funding.

2. Maximum Award

The maximum grant award is $250,000.

3. Number of Awards

The number of awards will be determined based on the availability of funding, the quality of submitted proposals, and DAS discretion.

C. Proposal and Budget Requirements

1. Proposal Requirements

Applicants must submit a clear and detailed proposal describing:

• The workforce challenge or opportunity the project will address;

• The proposed innovation or strategy;

• Whether the project will support a new or existing Registered Apprenticeship Program;

• The anticipated project activities and timeline;

• The individuals, employers, industries, or communities that will benefit;

• The expected outcomes and measures of success;

• The project’s potential for system-wide impact, scalability, or replication; and

• Any partnerships necessary to implement the project.

2. Budget Requirements

Applicants must submit a detailed budget describing how grant funds will be used.

The budget must:

• Align with the proposed project activities;

• Identify all requested cost categories;

• Provide clear justification for each expense;

• Demonstrate that costs are reasonable and necessary to implement the project; and

• Include any matching funds, leveraged resources, or in-kind contributions, where applicable.

All grant expenditures must be approved by DAS and included in the grantee’s approved budget.

Category 4: GROW Pre-Apprenticeship Training and Services

A. Program Purpose

Category 4 supports high-quality registered pre-apprenticeship training and services in any sector, industry, or occupation.

Successful applicants will maximize the number of individuals who enroll in registered pre-apprenticeship programs and successfully transition into Registered Apprenticeship Programs.

Programs should support individuals with disabilities and populations that are demonstrably underrepresented in the applicable industry.

Grant funds will be awarded on a cost-per-participant basis and may support Related Technical Instruction, Supportive Services, program administration, and other approved costs associated with serving registered pre-apprentices.

Applicants may also request seed funding to develop and register a new pre-apprenticeship program.

Seed funding will be reimbursed only after the program has been successfully registered with DAS and must result in registered pre-apprenticeship or Registered Apprenticeship enrollments during the grant term.

B. Grant Term and Available Funding

1. Grant Term

The grant term will continue through June 30, 2027. Renewal is subject to DAS discretion, grantee performance, and the availability of funding.

2. Maximum Award

The maximum grant award is $97,500.

3. Number of Awards

The number of awards will be determined based on the availability of funding and DAS discretion.

4. Per-Participant Funding Cap

Grant funds are capped at $3,250 per registered pre-apprentice.

C. Program Requirements and Performance Measures

1. Performance Measure

Grant outcomes will be measured primarily by the number of pre-apprentices enrolled in qualified, DAS-registered pre-apprenticeship programs.

Applicants should also describe how participants will be supported in transitioning into Registered Apprenticeship Programs.

2. Enrollment Deadline

Pre-apprentices should be enrolled before March 1, 2027.

Enrollment of pre-apprentices after March 1, 2027, will require prior DAS approval and will be subject to the availability of funding.

3. Program Design Requirements

Applicants proposing a new registered pre-apprenticeship program should review the DAS Pre- Apprenticeship Handbook available through COMMBUYS.

Applicants may propose converting existing training or educational offerings, including Occupational Skills Training, internships, or cooperative work experiences, into registered pre-apprenticeship programs that incorporate the required elements of high-quality pre-apprenticeship.

Applicants proposing a new program must submit a proposed curriculum and training schedule.

Approximately 150 hours of pre-apprenticeship training per year is recommended.

Proposed programs should:

• Establish transparent entry and successful-completion requirements;

• Align training with skills sought by local employers and Registered Apprenticeship Programs;

• Culminate in one or more industry-recognized credentials, where applicable;

• Develop occupational skills through hands-on learning;

• Provide academic instruction, career exploration, and wraparound supports; and

• Establish pathways and partnerships that support successful transition into Registered Apprenticeship Programs.

D. Eligible Costs

Grant funds may be used only for costs approved by DAS and included in the grantee’s approved budget.

1. Related Technical Instruction Costs

Allowable Related Technical Instruction costs may include:

• Classroom, online, or hybrid instruction;

• Participant orientation;

• Soft skills training;

• Enrollment, retention, and belonging activities; and

• Other approved instructional or program-support services.

2. Supportive Services Costs

Allowable Supportive Services costs may include:

• Licensing and credentialing fees;

• English for Speakers of Other Languages instruction;

• Childcare costs incurred during classroom training;

• Educational supplies;

• Tools and other work-related supplies; and

• Other approved services that address barriers to training, employment, or retention.

3. Administrative Costs

Allowable Administrative Costs may include staff costs associated with:

• Pre-apprentice enrollment;

• Pre-apprentice retention;

• Program administration;

• Grant reporting; and

• Other approved administrative activities.

Administrative costs must be reasonably allocated to the registered pre-apprenticeship program and approved by DAS.

4. Unallowable Costs

Wages or stipends paid directly to apprentices or mentors are not allowable costs.

Applicants that do not request funding for Related Technical Instruction or Supportive Services must explain how the training, supportive-service, and wraparound needs of participating apprentices will be funded.

4. Capacity-Building and Seed Funding Costs

Applicants developing a new registered pre-apprenticeship program may request approved capacity-building or seed funding.

Such costs will be reimbursed only after the pre-apprenticeship program has been successfully registered with DAS and has resulted in registered pre-apprenticeship or Registered Apprenticeship enrollments during the grant term.

E. Sponsor Status

Applicants are not required to be an existing sponsor of a Registered Apprenticeship or registered pre-apprenticeship program at the time of application.

Organizations may apply if they Intend to become a Registered Apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship sponsor or are currently completing the registration process.

Only costs incurred during the grant period to support an approved registered pre-apprenticeship or Registered Apprenticeship Program are eligible for funding.

The applicable program must be registered with DAS before any program costs may be paid or reimbursed with grant funds.

F. Invoicing, Documentation, and Recordkeeping

Invoices will be based on the number of registered pre-apprentices enrolled and verified by DAS and must be consistent with the approved budget and contract terms.

Awardees must submit the invoice form provided by DAS. Each invoice must include:

• A list of registered pre-apprentices included in the invoice;

• Approved Related Technical Instruction costs with supporting documentation;

• Approved Supportive Services costs with supporting documentation;

• Approved Administrative Costs;

• Approved capacity-building or seed funding costs, where applicable; and

• Back-up documentation for all costs;

• Any additional documentation required by DAS.

DAS may issue additional invoicing guidance tied to approved milestones, including:

• Program registration;

• Pre-apprentice enrollment;

• Retention;

• Progression;

• Transition into a Registered Apprenticeship Program; and

• Other approved deliverables.

Awardees must maintain complete and accurate records of all grant expenditures and make those records available during DAS monitoring or upon request.

If federal funds are used for the grant, expenses must be reported on an accrual basis.

Category 5: GROW Planning Grants

A. Program Purpose

Category 5 provides one-time start-up funding and technical assistance to applicants with limited or no apprenticeship experience that are seeking to develop a new Registered Apprenticeship Program or registered pre-apprenticeship program.

Preference may be given to proposals that support:

• Industries in which Registered Apprenticeship is not widely used;

• Occupations with limited existing apprenticeship opportunities;

• Populations that are underrepresented in the applicable industry or occupation; or

• New program models that expand access to Registered Apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship opportunities.

Successful applicants will receive technical assistance from a member of the Division of Apprentice Standards Apprentice Liaison Team.

Grant activities are expected to result in the submission of an application to register a new Registered Apprenticeship Program or pre-apprenticeship program with DAS.

B. Grant Term and Available Funding

1. Grant Term

Planning Grants are one-time awards and are not eligible for renewal.

2. Maximum Award

The maximum grant award is $20,000.

3. Number of Awards

The number of awards will be determined based on the availability of funding, the quality of submitted proposals, and DAS discretion.

C. Program and Proposal Requirements

1. Applicant Eligibility

This category is intended for new applicants with limited or no prior experience developing or administering a Registered Apprenticeship Program or registered pre-apprenticeship program.

Applicants seeking funding for the operation or expansion of an existing program should apply under another applicable grant category.

2. Proposal Requirements

Applicants must submit a clear and detailed proposal describing:

• The industry, occupation, or workforce need the proposed program will address;

• Whether the applicant intends to develop a Registered Apprenticeship Program or registered pre-apprenticeship program;

• The population or community the proposed program will serve;

• The employers, training providers, workforce partners, or community-based organizations that may participate;

• The activities that will be completed during the grant period;

• The anticipated timeline for program development and registration; and

• How the applicant will use DAS technical assistance to support program development.

The proposed activities must be reasonably designed to result in the submission of a program registration application to DAS.

D. Eligible Costs and Budget Requirements

Grant funds may be used only for planning and development costs approved by DAS and included in the grantee’s approved budget.

1. Eligible Planning Costs

Allowable costs may include:

• Staff time dedicated to program research, design, and development;

• Employer and partner engagement;

• Curriculum and training plan development;

• Development of apprenticeship standards or pre-apprenticeship program materials;

• Legal, administrative, or consulting services directly related to program registration;

• Outreach and recruitment planning;

• Development of policies, procedures, and participant supports;

• Meetings, convenings, and planning activities; and

• Other approved costs necessary to develop and submit a program registration application.

Planning Grant funds may not be used to support the ongoing operation of an existing Registered Apprenticeship Program or pre-apprenticeship program.

2. Budget Requirements

Applicants must submit a detailed budget describing how grant funds will be used to develop the proposed Registered Apprenticeship Program or registered pre-apprenticeship program.

The budget must:

• Align with the proposed planning activities;

• Identify each requested cost category;

• Provide clear justification for each expense;

• Demonstrate that all costs are reasonable and necessary;

• Identify any matching funds, leveraged resources, or in-kind contributions, where applicable;

and

• Be consistent with the applicant’s proposed timeline and deliverables.

All grant expenditures must be approved by DAS and included in the grantee’s approved budget.

11. General Account and Finance Guidelines

• Funds will not be distributed until all grant documents are signed by all parties within an executed contract. Invoices dated prior to the approved contract will not be considered for payment.

• Payments will be made based on budget summaries approved at the time of contract execution.

• For all categories, non-relevant administrative costs and costs incurred prior to an approved grant application and executed contract are not reimbursable.

• Apprentices may not be concurrently enrolled in more than one USDOL Apprenticeship Grant funding stream at any time, nor may any grantee be reimbursed through USDOL funding for any duplicative service provided by one or more grantees receiving USDOL Apprenticeship Grant Funding.

12. Evaluation Criteria

• Organizational history. Organization’s history and any track record of implementing Registered Apprenticeship or other workforce development programs. Include any history of working with

DAS.

• Sector Impact. The number of apprentices projected to be served by this grant, the proposed sector and occupational demand, quality of training, program ramp-up and feasibility, and proposed timeline. Identify occupations with high vacancies throughout the Commonwealth and explain how grant funding will help address those critical needs;

• Proposed outcomes: Review of proposed goals, outcomes and program impact during the period of performance.

• Untapped Talent Pools: How applicants will expand apprenticeship to underrepresented populations to ensure an inclusive apprenticeship workforce.

• Employer Commitments. Volume and level of employer commitment to sponsor and/or hire apprentices through the grant.

• Financial viability beyond the grant period. How applicants will continue to support the proposed program beyond the period of grant funding. This plan should include, but is not limited to long-term program continuity, financial sustainability, employer and stakeholder engagement, capacity building, performance and outcome tracking, risk assessment and mitigation.

Applications that demonstrate strong, practical plans for sustaining outcomes after the funding period will receive priority consideration during the evaluation process

• Required documents. Completeness of application documents.

• Curriculum. Proposed RTI Curriculum and training schedule.

• Budget. Proposed cost of the project, including whether the requested amount is reasonable in relation to projected apprentice enrollment, allowable cost categories, and any proposed capacity-building activities. DAS may consider the following when reviewing proposed budgets: Whether the proposed costs are clearly tied to Registered Apprenticeship expansion; Whether funds are used for new, expanded, or incremental activities; Whether the proposed costs appear reasonable, necessary, and allowable; Whether the applicant has explained how funds will supplement rather than supplant other resources; Whether there is risk of duplication with another grant, contract, or funding source. DAS may request clarification, budget revisions, or additional supporting documentation before making an award.

• Intermediary Services Plan (if applicable): Review of planned services feasibility, timeline, short-and long-term impact of proposed services and ability to successfully stand up and deliver proposed intermediary services.

13. Additional Bid Details

• Please address all criteria using the appropriate Grant Application Form (attached to the RFR in COMMBUYS) for the Category(ies) for which you are applying. Responses must be submitted via COMMBUYS. Include any required attachments and proposed budget.

• Only electronic quotes submitted via COMMBUYS will be accepted in response to this RFR.

Instructions on responding are available in the following job aid: How to Create a Quote in

COMMBUYS

• For COMMBUYS technical support, please contact the Operational Services Division (OSD) Help Desk at OSDHelpDesk@mass.gov or call during normal business hours (8 a.m. – 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday) at 1-888-627- 8283 or 617-720-2197.

• Any submission that fails to meet the submission requirements of the RFR will be found non-responsive without further evaluation unless the evaluation team, at its discretion, determines that the non-compliance is insubstantial and can be corrected. In these cases, the evaluation team may allow the vendor to make minor corrections to the submission.

14. Estimated Procurement Calendar. This procurement is subject to available funding. Applicants will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis. The Priority Deadline for submissions for all categories (i.e. maximum funding availability) is August 28, 2026. Any submissions received after the Priority Deadline will be considered only if funding remains available.

Procurement Activity Date Time

Bid Release Date 07/24/2026 2:00 PM

Virtual Information Session and Live Q&A 08/11/2026 11:00AM http://www.commbuys.com/ http://www.mass.gov/doc/how-to-create-a-quote-in-commbuys/download http://www.mass.gov/doc/how-to-create-a-quote-in-commbuys/download mailto:OSDHelpDesk@mass.gov

Submission of Questions DUE 08/13/2026 3:00 PM

Question Submission Responses Posted Online (est.) 08/15/2026 5:00 PM

Priority Deadline for all Applications DUE 8/28/2026 11:59 PM

Initial Award Notification 10/15/2026 Est.

Application closed, final deadline for all submissions 03/01/2027 2:00 PM

• Applicants are required to monitor COMMBUYS for changes to the procurement calendar for this

Bid. Written Questions must be submitted via COMMBUYS.

• Questions regarding this RFR for the Priority Deadline MAY ONLY BE SUBMITTED by using the Q&A Tab of the bid solicitation in COMMBUYS. Instructions on submitting questions are available in the following job aid: Submitting Questions via COMMBUYS.

• Link for the Virtual Information Session: Virtual Information Session and Live Q&A

• Written Responses to Questions will be released on or about the “Responses to Questions Posted

On COMMBUYS” date(s) indicated in the Estimated Procurement Calendar (above). (Written questions and responses will be posted on this Bid in COMMBUYS.)

• Proposals received after the Priority Deadline may be reviewed only if funding remains available and at EOLWD/DAS’s sole discretion. Late submissions are not guaranteed review or consideration.

a. Bid Amendments. EOLWD/DAS reserves the right to make amendments to the Bid after initial publication. It is each Applicant’s responsibility to check COMMBUYS for any amendments, addenda or modifications to this Bid, and any Bid Q&A records related to this Bid. EOLWD, DAS, and the Commonwealth accept no responsibility and will provide no accommodation to Applicants who submit a Quote based on an out-of-date Bid or on information received from a source other than COMMBUYS.

b. Estimated Contract Start Date. The approximate start date of contracts resulting from this RFR is October 15, 2026, if submitted by the Priority Deadline. Start dates for applications submitted after this date will vary. The actual start date for all contracts will be the Contract Effective Date which is the date the Contract is executed by all parties.

15. Required Forms.

Responses to this RFR must contain the following documents:

https://www.mass.gov/doc/using-the-qa-tab-within-a-commbuys-bid/download https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/227683930629146?p=nFZmQlM7Sqdvpk38tI

Form/Document Notes/Instructions

Request for Taxpayer Identification Number & Certification (Massachusetts Substitute W-9 Form)

Electronic Submission

Standard Contract Form (SCF) and Instructions Electronic Submission

Contractor Authorized Signatory Verification Electronic Submission

Electronic Funds Transfer Sign Up Form Electronic Submission

Certificate of Unemployment Insurance Electronic Submission

DOR Certificate of Good Standing Electronic Submission

Grant Application Electronic Submission

Applicable Budget Worksheet Electronic Submission

The above top 4 forms are available in COMMBUYS as part of the bid record attachments in this RFR on COMMBUYS.

• Request for Taxpayer Information Number and Certification (Massachusetts Substitute W-9 Form): The Massachusetts Substitute W-9 Form must be completed and submitted by the Applicant.

• Commonwealth of Massachusetts Standard Contract Form (SCF): This form must be executed and returned as part of the Applicant’s RFR Response. By executing the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Standard Contract Form, the Applicant certifies, under the pains and penalties of perjury, that it has submitted a Response to an RFR issued by EOLWD/DAS and that this Response is the Applicant’s offer as evidenced by the signature execution by the Applicant’s authorized signatory, that the Applicant’s Response may be subject to negotiation by EOLWD/DAS, and that the terms of the RFR, the Applicant’s Response and any negotiated terms shall be deemed accepted by EOLWD/DAS and included as part of the Contract upon execution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Standard Contract Form by the EOLWD/DAS authorized signatory. By signing this form when requested to do so, the Applicant agrees to comply with all applicable Massachusetts and federal laws and regulations and to fulfil the Contract in accordance with the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions. If the Applicant is a state agency or a Massachusetts Community or State College, this form is not required. State agencies or a Massachusetts Community or State College must complete the Interdepartmental Service Agreement form.

ORGANIZATION HAS SUBMITTED THESE DOCUMENTS IN A PRIOR YEAR. The forms are included as The following forms must be fully completed and are required for submission, EVEN IF YOUR

• Contractor Authorized Signatory Listing (CASL): This form must be completed, executed and returned as part of the Applicant’s RFR Response. The completed form, executed by the President, CEO, Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Clerk or Legal Counsel for the Applicant, provides a certified listing of those individuals who are authorized to sign contracts and other legally binding documents related to the contract on the Applicant’s behalf.

• Commonwealth of Massachusetts Electronic Funds Transfer Sign Up (EFT): Applicant must complete and return this form. All Applicants responding to this RFR must agree to participate in the Agency’s Electronic Invoicing Program to receive payments for services rendered. This program is a benefit to both Applicants and the Agency because it eliminates postal and mailing expenses; it’s a more efficient use of technology and resources; turn-around for questions and issues is faster, and the response to invoicing requirements is quicker, resulting in speedier receipt of payments and paper reduction, The method used for electronic invoicing is via e-mail.

Instructions on how to enroll in the program will be provided upon the contract award.

• A Certificate of Unemployment Insurance Compliance from the Office of Unemployment Insurance. The fastest and easiest way to obtain a DUA Certificate is to apply online at Request certificate of compliance - Unemployment Services for Employers | Mass.gov Self-insured or reimbursable employers can get certificates of compliance from DUA via your UI Online account.

This certificate is valid for 30 days. PLEASE NOTE: THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUBMITTING A

CERTIFICATE OF UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE MAY CHANGE DURING THE PENDENCY OF THIS

RFR/GRANT OPPORTUNITY. IF REQUIRED, ADDITIONAL INFORMATION WILL BE PROVIDED VIA AN

AMENDMENT TO THE RFR.

• Certificate of Good Standing. Applicants must provide the Agency with a Certificate of Good Standing (Certificate), issued by the Massachusetts Department of Revenue, evidencing that an individual, partnership, corporation or other organization is in good standing with respect to any and all returns due and taxes payable to the Commonwealth. Per G.L. c. 62C, § § 51 and 52, G.L.

c. 138, § 64 and G.L. 156D, § 15.32, the Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Revenue is authorized to issue tax compliance certificates to eligible taxpayers. The fastest and easiest way to obtain a Certificate is via the online application. The issuance of a Certificate of Good Standing may take more than two (2) weeks. Applicants should indicate at their request to the Department of Revenue that the Certificate is sought in connection with a Commonwealth solicitation (include the deadline date). If the Applicant does not supply the requested Certificate of Good Standing with the Response, the Applicant must submit documentation verifying that the appropriate application has been filed. Any applicant that has not provided the Certificate of Good Standing shall provide the Certificate within seven (7) business days after submitting their Response to the Agency. The Agency reserves the right to reject/disqualify and/or deem unresponsive any applicant that does not provide the required Certificate within the established specified timeframe. NOTE: The Certificate of Good Standing must have an issue date by DOR within six months from the RFR due date. DOR Website: https://www.mass.gov/how-to/request-a-certificate-of-good-standing-tax-compliance-or-a-corporate-tax-lien-waiver.

DOR Assistance: If you need further assistance, please contact the Department of Revenue (DOR) by calling (617) 887-6400, or toll free in Massachusetts at (800) 392-6089.

https://unemployment.mass.gov/Employers/_/#1 https://unemployment.mass.gov/Employers/_/#1 https://www.mass.gov/info-details/dor-certificate-of-good-standing-andor-corporate-tax-lien-waiver-faqs https://www.mass.gov/how-to/request-a-certificate-of-good-standing-tax-compliance-or-a-corporate-tax-lien-waiver https://www.mass.gov/how-to/request-a-certificate-of-good-standing-tax-compliance-or-a-corporate-tax-lien-waiver https://www.mass.gov/how-to/request-a-certificate-of-good-standing-tax-compliance-or-a-corporate-tax-lien-waiver

16. Grant Application. All Applicants responding to this procurement must complete the Grant Application for each category the Applicant plans to apply to.

17. Stevens Amendment Notice.

Since 1989, the United States Department of Labor’s (DOL) annual appropriation has included a provision known as the Stevens Amendment. Its purpose is to ensure transparency and accountability in federal spending. This provision requires the recipients of DOL grants and cooperative agreements to acknowledge federal funding when publicly discussing any projects or programs that DOL funded through its annual appropriation. For more information go to Stevens Amendment Q & A.

18. Environmentally Preferable Products.

Products and services purchased by state agencies must be in compliance with Executive Order 515, issued October 27, 2009. Under this Executive Order, Executive Departments are required to reduce their impact on the environment and enhance public health by procuring environmentally preferable products and services (EPPs) whenever such products and services perform to satisfactory standards and represent the best value, consistent with 801 CMR 21.00. In line with this directive, all Contracts, whether departmental or statewide, must comply with the specifications and guidelines established by OSD and the EPP Program. EPPs are considered to be products and services that help to conserve natural resources, reduce waste, protect public health and the environment, and promote the use of clean technologies, recycled materials, and less toxic products. Bid responses must identify how a contractor meets these goals.

<End of Request for Response > https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/VETS/files/Stevens-Amendment-Desk-Aid.pdf#%3A%7E%3Atext%3DSince%201989%2C%20the%20United%20States%20Department%20of%20Labor%E2%80%99s%2Cto%20ensure%20transparency%20and%20accountability%20in%20federal%20spending