Ensuring “Pro-American Worker” Critical Minerals Supply Chain in the Western Hemisphere

Background
The Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB) of the U.S. Department of Labor announces a funding opportunity to strengthen labor standards compliance and transparency in critical mineral supply chains in the Western Hemisphere, specifically targeting Chile and Argentina. This initiative aims to enhance U.S. manufacturing competitiveness by addressing unfair labor practices that disadvantage American workers in these supply chains, particularly for critical minerals such as copper, lithium, and silver.

The project aligns with U.S. national security interests and trade policies aimed at countering foreign labor abuses and ensuring fair competition.

Grant Details
The project will focus on the following tasks:
1) Propose context-responsive strategies in Argentina and/or Chile to address unfair labor practices in critical mineral supply chains;
2) Reduce labor-related supply chain risks for essential critical minerals that support advanced manufacturing jobs in the U.S.;
3) Engage with relevant government agencies, workers' organizations, and employers to ensure meaningful multi-stakeholder involvement;
4) Provide technical guidance to governments and employers regarding labor standards compliance;
5) Develop policy or enforcement measures to strengthen minimum wages, occupational safety, health standards, and freedom of association;
6) Ensure all proposed activities align with federal policies and strategies throughout the project duration.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include U.S. organizations such as nonprofits (including faith-based and community-based organizations), public/state-controlled institutions of higher education, private institutions of higher education, Native American tribal organizations, for-profit organizations, as well as non-U.S. entities including public international organizations. Organizations designated by the U.S. Government as associated with terrorism or debarred are not eligible to apply.

Period of Performance
The period of performance for this grant is set at 36 months from the award date. Applicants may propose a shorter duration based on their strategy.

Grant Value
Approximately $5 million total costs are available for one cooperative agreement under this funding opportunity. Applicants may request up to $5 million.

Place of Performance
The grant activities will be performed in Chile and/or Argentina.