Career Pathways Secondary Data Analysis Awards
This funding opportunity supports organizations in analyzing existing data to evaluate the effectiveness of career pathways programs that help low-income individuals, particularly those receiving TANF, achieve better employment outcomes through education and training.
Description
The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) has announced a forecasted funding opportunity titled "Career Pathways Secondary Data Analysis Awards" (HHS-2025-ACF-OPRE-PE-0029). This grant supports secondary data analysis of evaluations from career pathways programs, particularly those funded by Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The focus is to enhance understanding of the effectiveness of career pathway programs in addressing employment and self-sufficiency needs for TANF recipients or individuals eligible for TANF.
The purpose of this opportunity is to analyze existing datasets to evaluate how career pathways programs, such as the Pathways for Advancing Careers and Education (PACE) project and the Health Profession Opportunity Grants (HPOG), influence participant outcomes. These programs are designed to provide structured post-secondary education and training while integrating adult basic education, occupational training, and supportive services. They are client-centered and aim to help low-income, non-traditional students achieve higher credentials and access employment opportunities in growing fields.
The grant provides funding for a 24-month project, divided into two 12-month budget periods. Each budget period has a ceiling of $100,000, with the total program funding capped at $600,000. Up to six awards are expected. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, public and private higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profits (excluding small businesses), tribal organizations, housing authorities, and special district governments. Foreign entities and individuals are not eligible. Faith-based organizations may apply if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Applications must demonstrate a plan to conduct rigorous secondary data analysis using datasets available through the Child and Family Data Archive, including data from PACE and HPOG evaluations. Additional HPOG 2.0 National Evaluation data will be released progressively, offering more opportunities for in-depth analysis. Proposed projects should align with the program's goal to evaluate career pathways programs' implementation and effectiveness comprehensively.
Applications are anticipated to open on March 13, 2025, with a submission deadline of May 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Successful applicants will be notified by August 29, 2025, and projects will begin on September 30, 2025. For additional information or inquiries, applicants may contact Liza Rodler at liza.rodler@acf.hhs.gov or (202) 969-3639.