Community Workforce Connections Program Fy2026

The Maine Department of Labor, Bureau of Employment Services, is issuing a Request for Applications (RFA) for the Community Workforce Connections Program for Fiscal Year 2026. The procurement seeks qualified community-based organizations (CBOs) to implement peer-based workforce navigation services targeting unemployed and underemployed Mainers facing significant employment barriers. Specific target populations include immigrants, individuals with limited English proficiency, low-income populations, individuals with disabilities, and those with justice involvement. The program requires comprehensive workforce services delivered at no cost to participants, with goals of providing culturally and linguistically appropriate support. Applicants must submit completed proposals through the Vendor Self Service System (VSS) by January 28, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. local time, with preliminary questions due by January 13, 2026. The anticipated contract period spans from March 1, 2026, through December 31, 2028, representing a three-year term with potential extension options. Successful organizations will be expected to track outcomes through Maine JobLink or an approved alternative system and maintain secure data management practices protecting participant confidentiality.

Only nonprofit, community-based organizations are eligible to apply for this opportunity. Applicants must demonstrate established relationships with underserved populations and proven capacity to deliver workforce services. The Department intends to award one statewide contract but reserves the right to make multiple or partial awards based on state interests. Approximately $1.2 million in funding is estimated to be available for awards in Fiscal Year 2026, contingent upon the Competitive Skills Scholarship Fund's planned yield. Allowable fund uses include personnel costs with fringe benefits, staff training, outreach, partnership development, supplies, travel related to direct service delivery, interpretation and translation services, and technology or facility costs. Restricted expenditures include equipment purchases exceeding $5,000 per unit, construction, and non-aligned activities. Award recipients will be required to submit quarterly reports encompassing performance data, narrative reports, and financial documentation. The program mandates at least 12% of the annual planned yield support this initiative, as specified under 26 MRSA 2066.