The Cooperation On Fair, Free, Equitable Employment (COFFEE) Project is a forecasted grant opportunity led by the Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB) under the U.S. Department of Labor. The project focuses on promoting fair employment practices and addressing exploitative labor conditions in the coffee industry. Currently, this funding announcement is not open to general applications but is a Notice of Intent indicating that ILAB intends to extend funding to an ongoing project, specifically allocating additional support to Verite, Inc. This organization has been identified as a unique provider capable of effectively advancing the COFFEE Project's objectives based on its qualifications and existing commitments within the coffee sector.

The COFFEE Project aims to support the development and implementation of social compliance systems among stakeholders in the coffee industry, primarily to improve working conditions and eradicate child labor and forced labor within coffee supply chains. This goal aligns with the Department of Labor’s broader mission to combat exploitative labor practices internationally, using partnerships and targeted investments to create systemic changes in vulnerable sectors. By investing in these efforts, ILAB seeks to enhance supply chain transparency and worker protections in a way that can be sustainably maintained by industry stakeholders.

Funding for the COFFEE Project is expected to reach up to $7,500,000, with individual awards set between $3,000,000 and $7,500,000, supporting the project through a cooperative agreement. However, since this is a Notice of Intent rather than an open grant competition, the DOL has clarified that it will not be accepting applications from additional entities at this time. The funding will specifically increase the financial resources for Verite, Inc., allowing them to expand their work in promoting ethical labor standards within coffee supply chains. The organization is considered uniquely qualified due to its expertise and established presence in addressing labor abuses in international supply chains, meeting the DOL's requirements for a sole-source provider.

The Notice does not indicate any cost-sharing or matching requirements for this funding opportunity. It is also classified as a discretionary grant, and while further details are forthcoming, the projected funding aligns with the fiscal year 2024 allocation. Potential future applicants and stakeholders interested in similar projects or activities within the ILAB’s International Labor Programs can anticipate possible updates or related opportunities, though specific announcements have not yet been made.

Currently, there is no specified start date for this project expansion, and key dates such as the application and award timelines are not available, as ILAB is not soliciting new proposals. This notice primarily serves to inform the public of the DOL’s intent to fund Verite, Inc. to continue its targeted work against labor abuses in coffee production and distribution.

For further information, inquiries can be directed to Carlie Ortiz at ILAB via phone at (202) 693-9303 or by email at ortiz.carlie@dol.gov.