Blue Collar Adult

The Delaware Workforce Development Board (DWDB), in partnership with the Delaware Department of Labor's Division of Employment and Training, is seeking professional services to provide occupational skills training and workforce preparation programs for adult career entrants or changers, specifically targeting blue-collar workforce development in New Castle County and other Delaware counties. The procurement seeks a contractor to deliver comprehensive training services including participant assessment, career planning, occupational skills training, work experience, and 12-month follow-up services for adults aged 18 and older. Key deliverables include successfully training participants in high-growth sectors, with performance defined as participants completing 85% of scheduled training hours and achieving unsubsidized employment maintained for at least 180 days. Evaluation criteria will focus on the applicant's demonstrated ability to operate high-quality training programs, program design, job placement outcomes, and proposed budget. The Request for Proposal (RFP) was posted on January 19, 2024, with proposal submissions due by February 16, 2024. Proposals must be submitted in both paper and electronic formats, limited to 6 pages, and include detailed information about participant demographics, recruitment strategies, supportive services, and work readiness training.

The procurement appears to have priorities for Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE), with explicit emphasis on serving participants in high-poverty "Promise Communities" and demonstrating strong community partner networks. Organizations must show capacity to manage grant-funded programs and provide trauma-informed care. While specific set-aside percentages are not detailed, the RFP indicates a preference for organizations with established community linkage teams and the ability to leverage additional funding sources through braiding funds, direct financial contributions, or in-kind resources. The total anticipated funding for all programs is $1,296,684, to be awarded through a hybrid contract structure consisting of 60% cost reimbursement and 40% performance-based funding. Successful contractors will be expected to provide comprehensive wraparound services, job placement assistance, and align with state priorities of enabling workforce re-entry, raising educational attainment, and expanding economic opportunities. Eligible participants will primarily be adults seeking career entry or transition in blue-collar sectors across Delaware's counties.