The Employment Development Department (EDD) is excited to announce the Opportunity Young Adult Career Pathway Program, a pivotal initiative backed by $16 million in Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Title I Governor’s discretionary funds. This program is designed to empower young adults aged 18-28 by creating robust career pathways that lead to meaningful employment and long-term economic stability.
This program is strategically focused on addressing economic inequities and improving employment outcomes for Opportunity Young Adults (OYA). Grants awarded under the Opportunity Young Adult Career Pathway Program will support projects that demonstrate innovative strategies to connect young adults with good-quality jobs. These are not just any jobs, but careers that offer family-sustaining wages, essential benefits, predictable working hours, and real opportunities for career advancement, ensuring worker voice and growth.
Recognizing that holistic support is crucial for success, the Opportunity Young Adult Career Pathway Program also emphasizes wrap-around services. Projects will integrate comprehensive case management, delivered through a trauma-informed lens, to increase program completion rates and ensure participants are well-supported on their journey to sustainable employment and career progression.
We encourage applications from a diverse range of eligible organizations who are passionate about workforce development and dedicated to supporting young adults. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, labor unions, public agencies, tribal governments, community colleges, local workforce boards, and education and training providers. Applicants must demonstrate proven expertise in working with Opportunity Young Adults and in managing successful workforce development programs. Individual applications are not eligible.
To learn more and apply for the Opportunity Young Adult Career Pathway Program, please note that proposal applications must be submitted by 3 p.m. PST on February 5, 2024. A crucial Informational Webinar is scheduled for January 11, 2024, at 10 a.m. PST to provide further details. Pre-registration is required by January 11, 2024 at 9 a.m. PST through the EDD’s Workforce Development Solicitation for Proposals website. We also encourage applicants to submit a Notice of Intent to apply by January 19, 2024.
This Opportunity Young Adult Career Pathway Program represents a significant investment in our future workforce, aiming to create pathways to prosperity for young adults and build a stronger, more equitable economy.
Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor ($16 million, 100%) with $0 (0%) non-federal financing.
