Workforce Data Quality Initiative (WDQI)

Address national employment and training issues through demonstrations, pilot projects, and applied research that have interstate validity and will aid policymakers and stakeholders in addressing these issues and for continuous improvement of the pub

Jobseekers, stakeholders, universities, program and policy experts, general public, government and non profit institutions.

Only states and U.S. territories are eligible to apply for WDQI grants. These funds are used to develop, or enhance, state IT systems established as longitudinal administrative databases for the long-term analysis of individual data from pre-K through the workforce to determine the effectiveness of education and training programs.

With WDQI funding, states are required to develop a scorecard, using their longitudinal administrative database, that will display information in a consumer-friendly manner. These scorecards will help inform consumer-choice when selecting workforce training providers.

Projects shall include demonstration of innovative direct services or improvements to existing service strategies for individuals to enhance employment opportunities, and include a rigorous research or evaluation component and support the Department of Labor's stated strategic goal of "Good Jobs for Everyone," by: (1) Preparing workers for good jobs; (2) For those not working, providing income security; (3) Focusing on key segments of the workforce; (4) Building a comprehensive workforce system through innovative approaches; and (5) Evaluating program effectiveness. The Workforce Data Quality Initiative (WDQI), also included under pilots, demonstration, and research, provides funding to states for the development of, or enhancement to, state workforce longitudinal administrative databases.

WDQI grants have a period of performance of three years.

Criteria for each proposal are specified in the applicable FOA.

Procedures for each project are specified in the applicable funding opportunity announcement (FOA). Generally, the procedure is as follows: 1) A technical review panel composed of staff from ETA program offices as well as peer reviewers evaluates eligible submitted applications; 2) The panel prepares a report for the ETA Grant Officer identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the application and the cumulative rating; 3) Once selections are made by the Grant Officer, an Award Notification is sent through the appropriate congressional channels for notification; and 4) After awardees are notified, the list of awardees is posted on the ETA Web site at www.doleta.gov. If an application is rejected, a letter is sent to the applicant.

Refer to Funding Opportunity Announcement

From 45 to 90 days.

Project extensions available upon approval by the Grant Officer (renewals are not automatic). Requests for extensions or renewals must be submitted in writing along with supporting justification for the renewal.

Procedures for each project are specified in the applicable FOA.