Out-of-School Youth

The Delaware Workforce Development Board and Delaware Department of Labor are seeking proposals for Out-of-School Youth (OSY) programming through RFP #LAB-25R-OSY-001. The procurement aims to fund comprehensive workforce development services for youth aged 16-24 who face barriers to secondary school completion, employment, and post-secondary enrollment. Providers must deliver a full suite of career services including career exploration, guidance, educational counseling, and occupational skills training, while also implementing all 14 mandated WIOA program elements. Proposals are due March 7, 2025, by 1:00 PM EST, with a pre-bid meeting scheduled for February 18, 2025. The RFP requires organizations to demonstrate capacity for comprehensive case management, wraparound services, and ability to meet specific performance measures: 66% employment/training rate in the 2nd quarter after exit, 72.5% in the 4th quarter after exit, $2,500 median earnings, 74.5% credential attainment, and 60.5% measurable skill gains. Key evaluation criteria will include program design, demonstrated organizational ability, employer partnerships, and approach to serving youth with employment barriers.

The procurement does not explicitly indicate set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, but requires all proposing organizations to be licensed businesses or non-profit entities. Providers must allocate 25% of requested funds specifically for Work Experience (WEX) activities and establish strong employer partnerships. The total available funding is $2,654,339 for one year, sourced from Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and State Blue Collar (BC) funds. The contract term is one year with potential for two additional one-year extensions. Successful contractors must maintain proper Delaware business licensure, carry specified insurance coverage, and be prepared to operate across New Castle, Kent, and Sussex Counties. The State reserves the right to hold back up to 25% of contract funds until acceptable performance is demonstrated, and requires detailed cost proposals with no additional charges permitted without written consent. Award notification is anticipated on April 11, 2025, with potential oral clarifications scheduled for March 27, 2025.