Updated National Dislocated Worker Grant Program Guidance and Application Information

The Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration is soliciting applications for National Dislocated Worker Grants (CFDA 17.277) addressing workforce disruption from declared disasters and major economic dislocations, with application due by December 31, 2028. Two grant types are available: Disaster Recovery DWGs (funded up to $5 million, or up to $10 million for disasters affecting multiple population centers; $2 million limit for opioid-crisis response) and Employment Recovery DWGs (funded up to $2 million).

Eligible applicants for Disaster Recovery DWGs are state workforce agencies administering WIOA formula funds, outlying areas, or Indian tribal governments. Employment Recovery DWGs are open to state workforce agencies or outlying areas (or consortia of either), local workforce development boards or consortia of boards, entities eligible under WIOA Section 166(c) Indian and Native American Program, entities determined appropriate by state governors, or entities demonstrating capability to the Secretary of Labor to effectively respond to specific dislocations.

Disaster Recovery grants require demonstration of at least 50 job losses within the disaster area and FEMA designation of eligible events. Employment Recovery grants address mass layoffs, plant closures, and community-wide economic impacts. Administrative costs are limited to 10 percent of total grant awards, with rare exceptions allowing up to 15 percent. Period of performance is generally 36 months, extendable up to 12 additional months in exceptional circumstances; funds are expended during the award year plus two subsequent program years. Eligible participants include individuals laid off due to disaster or dislocation, dislocated workers as defined by WIOA, long-term unemployed individuals, self-employed individuals who became unemployed or significantly underemployed due to the triggering event, and military service members and spouses. Allowable activities include disaster-relief employment for cleanup and recovery, humanitarian assistance, employment and training services, and supportive services. Grant decisions on complete applications are issued within 45 working days of receipt. Applications must include SF-424 and SF-424A forms, budget narrative, abstract, and statement of work demonstrating community needs assessment, employment and training activities, recruitment strategies, and post-employment outcome goals.