On-the-Job Training

The Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment & Training is seeking employers to participate in an On-the-Job Training (OJT) program for New Castle County through a competitive Request for Proposal (RFP No. LAB-24R-OJT-001). The procurement aims to provide training and upskilling opportunities for Delaware residents by offering wage reimbursements to businesses that hire and train new employees. Participating employers will receive up to 50% wage rate reimbursements for training costs, with wages ranging from $16-$25 per hour (reimbursed at $8-$12.50 per hour). Training duration must be between 4-26 weeks, with employers limited to one OJT participant per five full-time positions. Key procurement dates include a pre-bid meeting on August 8, 2024, questions due by August 12, 2024, responses posted by August 21, 2024, and proposals due by September 3, 2024 at 1:00 PM. The State expects to notify selected providers by September 19, 2024, with a performance period from October 1, 2024 through December 31, 2026.

The OJT program strongly encourages proposals from employers that will train underrepresented, disadvantaged, or low-skilled populations, with a preference for participants representing at least 50% of trainees. Eligible employers must be physically located in Delaware for at least one year, offer full-time positions (minimum 35 hours/week) with benefits, and provide payroll-based (not contract/1099) positions. The funding source is the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), with an anticipated aggregate amount of $750,000 available to support multiple awarded programs. Supportive services up to $2,000 per participant are available for additional needs like transportation or childcare. Proposals will be evaluated based on the provider's ability to operate high-quality OJT programs, with consideration given to the organization's size, financial condition, and capacity to meet program requirements. The State reserves the right to award multiple contracts on a cost-reimbursement basis, with successful bidders required to comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.