Employment Pathways Technical Assistance (EPTA) grant for Program Year 2025-26 (PY 25-26)

Background
The Employment Development Department (EDD), in collaboration with the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency (LWDA), is offering a grant opportunity for the Employment Pathways Technical Assistance (EPTA) for Program Year 2025-26 (PY 25-26). This initiative aims to provide specialized support to enhance the effectiveness of ETPP projects, ensuring successful outcomes for program awardees. The funding, totaling $1.5 million from the U.S. Department of Labor, will facilitate a thorough analysis of ETP Programs and promote best practices in workforce development.

Work Details
The selected TADE provider will deliver technical assistance and developmental evaluation services to PY 25-26 ETPP grantees. Key responsibilities include:

1. Conducting needs assessments and providing tailored support through coaching, training, and peer learning.
2. Facilitating a community of practice (COP) among various TA providers to share lessons learned and develop a shared learning agenda.
3. Implementing a developmental evaluation framework that supports real-time learning and adaptation.
4. Elevating participant voices through focus groups and interviews to inform program design.
5. Developing user-friendly data tools such as dashboards to enhance data accessibility and use.
6. Supporting grantees in aligning their programs with industry skill demands, particularly for populations facing barriers such as Opportunity Young Adults, veterans, justice-involved individuals, and English Language Learners.

Period of Performance
The period of performance for this grant is anticipated to be between 18 to 24 months, starting in June 2026 and concluding by March 31, 2028.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed within California, specifically targeting communities served by the Employment Training Pathways Program.

Bidder Requirements
Eligible applicants include Community Colleges, Institutions of higher education, Adult Education Providers, Community-based Organizations, Nonprofit Organizations, Labor Organizations, and Workforce Intermediaries with proven capacity to deliver technical assistance and coordinate across state-funded workforce programs.