Adult Blue Collar

The Delaware Workforce Development Board (DWDB) and Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training are soliciting proposals for an Adult Blue Collar workforce development program through RFP LAB-25R-ABC-001. The procurement seeks organizations to provide occupational skills training and workforce preparation services for adult career entrants or changers across multiple industries including Healthcare, Construction/Skilled Trades, Information Technology, Manufacturing & Logistics, Transportation, Business/Financial Services, Education, and Science & Technology. Eligible providers must be public institutions, higher education institutions qualified for Title IV programs, or Department of Education-approved private business/trade schools. Key deliverables include comprehensive training programs targeting Delaware residents 18 years or older, with performance requirements of 100% enrollment of target numbers, 80% completion rate, 90% credential attainment, and 80% day-1 employment outcomes within 90 days of program exit. The RFP was issued on February 3, 2025, with a pre-bid meeting scheduled for February 18, 2025, and proposals due by March 7, 2025, at 1:00 PM EST. Proposal reviews will occur on March 25, 2025, with potential oral clarifications on March 27, 2025, and estimated award notification on April 11, 2025.

The contract opportunity has specific restrictions on eligible respondents, requiring organizations to be non-profit or public entities for Workforce Preparation programs, and Institutions of Higher Education or approved Private Business and Trade Schools for Occupational Skills Training. Respondents must provide business licenses or proof of non-profit status, and the program emphasizes serving individuals with barriers to employment, including those re-entering society. The anticipated funding amount is $1,956,500 for one year, sourced from State Blue Collar (BC) funds, with award amounts structured as 60% cost-based and 40% performance-based payments. Performance payments will be tied to verifiable day 1 and day 30 job placement outcomes. The contract term is one year with potential for two additional one-year extensions, and the State reserves the right to extend contracts on a month-to-month basis for up to three months after the full contract term. Insurance requirements are comprehensive, including workers compensation, commercial general liability ($1M per occurrence/$3M aggregate), and additional liability coverages depending on program scope. The procurement also emphasizes trauma-informed care, case management, wrap-around services, and partnership development.