Funding Opportunity: Massachusetts Department of Youth Services- Skills Up- Rolling Due Date

The Massachusetts Department of Youth Services is issuing a funding opportunity titled "Skill Up: Career, Technical and Workforce Training and Employment Services Request for Responses (RFR)." This RFR seeks proposals from vocational and higher education institutions, unions, businesses, nonprofit and community-based organizations to provide high-quality career, technical, workforce training, and employment programs and services for DYS youth in residential and community settings. The RFR outlines five optional service areas, including work-based learning experiences, vocational and/or technical training, pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs, social enterprises, and consulting services. Proposals will be accepted on a rolling basis, with quarterly bidder conferences scheduled. The initial contract duration is through June 30, 2025, with the possibility of four 1-year renewal options. Evaluation criteria include a consensus model where an evaluation committee independently reviews and jointly rates all qualified proposals to generate a prioritized award list.

The RFR is open to new providers, and the Department of Youth Services is seeking to expand its network of career, vocational and employment service providers across its five regional service areas in Massachusetts. Funding amounts may increase or decrease based on availability, and respondents must have a taxpayer identification number and a separate bank account for any contracted services. While no specific incumbent vendors or budget ranges are provided, the RFR does reference existing DYS equipment and programming across the state that respondents can leverage in their proposals.