CCW Program Builder Funding Round 13

Background
The Employment Security Department (ESD), on behalf of the Career Connect Washington (CCW) coalition, is issuing this Request for Proposal (RFP) to establish the Career Connect Washington Program Builder Funding.

The goal is to develop industry-aligned programs for Career Connected Learning (CCL) opportunities in targeted counties and industry sectors across Washington State. This initiative aims to provide equitable access to multiple pathways toward economic self-sufficiency and fulfillment for young adults, particularly those from underserved backgrounds.

Work Details
The selected bidders will be responsible for developing, scaling, and implementing industry-aligned Career Connected Learning programs, which include:
1. Creating descriptions of resources and supports for recruiting individuals from underserved backgrounds.
2. Developing procedures for handling complaints from students.
3. Creating tools for recording and maintaining student data.
4. Establishing letters of endorsement from local community-based organizations or agencies.
5. Identifying barriers to program access and designing plans to reduce those barriers through local partnerships.
6. Establishing a sustainability plan for financial support beyond the contract period.
7. Submitting a Career Launch endorsement application if developing a Career Launch program.
8. Incorporating youth and young adults into program design and evaluation processes.
9. Creating program slots that combine academic instruction with on-the-job experiences, both paid and unpaid.

Period of Performance
The contract period will begin upon award notification on November 15, 2024, and will continue as determined by CCW based on community needs.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed across targeted counties in Washington State.