Building Career Development Capacity in Delaware
GrantID: 13859
Grant Funding Amount Low: $25,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $100,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Empowering Youth through Career Development in Delaware
Delaware’s youth population faces a dynamic landscape in terms of educational and employment opportunities, especially in the wake of shifting economic demands. With the state’s unemployment rate markedly affected by the pandemic, many young individuals, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, have been disproportionately impacted. A recent study indicated that the youth unemployment rate in Delaware stands at approximately 25%, underscoring the need for targeted career development programs.
This challenge primarily affects students from low-income families and those facing barriers to employment due to lack of access to resources or networks. Many youth in Delaware also belong to communities of color, which face systemic inequities that can hinder their capability to secure stable jobs and career pathways. As a state with a growing focus on high-demand industries, such as healthcare and technology, Delaware must invest significantly in providing these populations with the skills and opportunities necessary for future successes.
The grant program is directed toward organizations that specialize in workforce training and career development for youth. Eligible applicants include educational institutions, non-profits, and businesses willing to collaborate on creating apprenticeships and training programs targeting high-demand sectors in Delaware. The program emphasizes reflective methodologies that assess the local job market and align training with current workforce needs.
In the application process, organizations must provide detailed proposals outlining how their programs will effectively engage young individuals and address the skills gap present in Delaware's labor market. Each initiative should incorporate strategies for mentorship and hands-on learning experiences to facilitate smoother transitions into the workforce for participants.
Target outcomes are centered around improving employment prospects and workforce readiness among Delaware's youth. By expanding access to training programs tailored to local industry needs, this initiative aims to result in measurable increases in employment rates among participating youth. A comprehensive focus on high-demand sectors also serves to bolster Delaware’s overall economy by ensuring that young individuals are equipped with market-relevant skills.
Unlike many of its neighboring states, Delaware’s compact size and proximity to major metropolitan areas present unique opportunities for collaborative workforce strategies that can enhance youth career pathways. By investing in local training programs, the state can address not only youth unemployment rates but also overall workforce sustainability in the face of evolving economic demands.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements