Learning for Careers

The Delaware Workforce Development Board (DWDB), in partnership with the Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment and Training (DOL/DET) and Delaware Department of Education (DOE), is seeking proposals for the Learning for Careers (LFC) program. This Request for Proposal (RFP LAB-25R-LFC-001) aims to engage Delaware's business community and learners in creating and expanding paid work experiences for youth and adult learners, specifically targeting middle and high-skill, high-demand, and high-wage occupations. The program requires providers to develop comprehensive work-based learning opportunities for Delaware residents aged 14-24, with key deliverables including 100% enrollment of target numbers, an 80% completion rate, 90% credential attainment rate, and 80% Day 1 employment outcome within 90 days of program exit. Proposers must establish partnerships with at least three employers and align with state-approved career and technical education programs. Critical dates include a pre-bid meeting on February 18, 2025, question submissions due by February 19, 2025, proposal responses posted by February 25, 2025, and final proposals due on March 7, 2025, at 1:00 PM EST. Proposal reviews are scheduled for March 25, 2025, with potential oral presentations on March 27, 2025, and award notification anticipated on April 11, 2025.

Eligible proposers are limited to State of Delaware public institutions/training centers, institutions of higher education qualified for Title IV programs, or private businesses/trade schools approved by the Department of Education. The program has an anticipated funding amount of $500,000 for one year, to be provided on a cost reimbursement basis with monthly financial reports triggering payments. Participants must be Delaware residents eligible to work in the United States, and providers will be required to maintain detailed documentation of supportive services and client benefits. The contract term is one year with two optional one-year extensions, and the State may hold back up to 25% of contract monies until acceptable performance is demonstrated. Providers must submit various mandatory attachments, including a Non-Collusion Statement, Exception Form, Confidential Information Form, Business Reference Form, and proof of business license or non-profit status. The program emphasizes leveraged resources, requiring documentation of cash contributions and in-kind support, and restricts direct cash payments to clients, instead utilizing voucher systems for supportive services.