The Work Readiness Training Request for Proposals is a funding opportunity provided by the New York State Department of Labor. This initiative aims to support eligible organizations in delivering work readiness training, which encompasses the development of essential skills and behaviors necessary for employment. The training focuses on equipping individuals with transferable skills that are vital for adapting to various work environments. These skills, often referred to as soft skills, include communication, problem-solving, conflict resolution, time management, and financial literacy, among others. The program is designed to prepare participants for the workforce, occupational skills training, or higher education.

The primary purpose of the Work Readiness Training program is to enhance the employability of individuals facing barriers to employment. The objectives include fostering career paths, promoting job retention, and ensuring success in modern workplaces. The training will cover key competencies such as professional skill development, workplace culture, career exploration, resume writing, interview preparation, and the importance of continuous learning. By focusing on these areas, the program aims to create opportunities for employment, self-sufficiency, and economic mobility for participants.

Funding for the Work Readiness Training program is part of a larger allocation of $25 million in federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funding. Of this total, $5 million is specifically designated for the Work Readiness Training program, with individual awards not exceeding $350,000. The funds can be utilized to engage training providers to deliver the necessary training, and it is important to note that participants will not incur any costs, including tuition or fees, as the program prohibits charging individuals for training.

Eligible applicants for this funding include for-profit entities, not-for-profit organizations, municipalities, and educational institutions such as colleges and universities. To qualify, organizations must have at least two full-time employees throughout the contract duration and must be in good standing with relevant laws and regulations. Participants in the training must be New York State residents aged 16 and older who are out of school and seeking to develop work readiness skills.

The submission requirements for the grant include a detailed proposal outlining the training program and its objectives. Applicants will need to address specific questions related to their proposed training and demonstrate how they will meet the program's goals. Evaluation criteria will focus on the effectiveness of the proposed training, the ability to reach the target population, and the overall impact on participants' employability.

The timeline for this grant opportunity indicates that the deadline for submission is October 25, 2024. Initial contracts resulting from this solicitation will be awarded for a period of one year. It is essential for interested organizations to prepare their proposals in advance to meet this deadline and ensure compliance with all submission requirements. For further information, potential applicants can visit the New York State Department of Labor's website.