On behalf of Career Connect Washington (CCW), the Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) is conducting a Round 8 Request for Proposals (RFP) for CCW Program Intermediaries. We are seeking proposals from highly qualified entities capable of building or expanding Career Launch (including Registered Apprenticeship), Career Prep, and Career Explore programs.

Our vision is that every young adult in Washington will have multiple pathways toward economic self-sufficiency and fulfilment, strengthened by a comprehensive state-wide system for career connected learning. In order for every young adult to succeed, we must intentionally focus on populations kept furthest from opportunity, especially students of color, Indigenous students, low-income students, rural students, and students with disabilities. Women- and BIPOC-led organizations and organizations specifically serving young people of color and people with lived experience in historically marginalized communities are strongly encouraged to apply.

To catalyze development and expansion of programs statewide, $4,000,000 of Federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Title I Statewide Activities Funds will be made available, the largest amount to date. ESD targets $100,000 – $150,000 per award. No single award will exceed $250,000. ESD expects periods of performance will begin in May 2022 and will end in June 2023.

Bids are due April 1, 2022, at 5:00 PM Pacific Time. The RFP can be accessed via the Washington Electronic Business Solutions (WEBS) system (RFP #2022-1). Bidders are responsible for downloading the solicitation document and all appendices and incorporated documents. Questions can be directed to Procurement Coordinator Andrea Goff (esdgpbids@esd.wa.gov).

Career Connect Washington partners and stakeholders are encouraged to share this announcement broadly, to any and all potential bidders.

CCW Program Intermediary Round 8 Timeline & Activities

Bidders’ Conference February 23, 2022 – 1:00-2:30 PM

Round 8 Bidders Conference Video and Presentation:
Questions Due March 8, 2022 – 5:00 PM
Answers Posted March 14, 2022 – 4:00 PM
Proposals Due April 1, 2022, at 5:00 PM
Announcement of Successful Bidders April 15 – April 22, 2022

Grant Information:

Eligible Applicants: Entities interested in performing the role of Program Intermediary and working with Regional Networks, Career Connected Learning Coordinators at the Educational Service Districts, and industry and education partners to expand the use of current curricula or develop new curricula for Career Launch programs (including Registered Apprenticeships), Career Prep, or Explore programs.

Funding:$4,000,000 of Federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Title I Statewide Activities Funds will be made available, the largest amount to date. ESD targets $100,000 – $150,000 per award. No single award will exceed $250,000.

Period of Performance: estimated at 12 months, May 2022 through June 2023.

Allowable Costs:
Funding will support program development costs and will not support enrollments, wrap around services, instruction, or direct participant recruitment. 
Allowable budget categories may include the following, provided costs are attributable to contract activities:

  • Staff Salaries
  • Staff Benefits
  • Costs for outreach to business and education partners
  • Travel directly related to program development
  • Supplies
  • Curriculum development and enhancement

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