11/20/2025

New Workforce Grant Released From the U.S. Department of Education—Quick Deadline Approaching

The U.S. Department of Education has released a new funding opportunity through the Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education – Special Projects (FIPSE-SP), focused on building or expanding short-term workforce credential programs. This grant aims to support colleges, nonprofit organizations, and partner entities in developing programs that prepare learners for in-demand roles. For aging services, the most relevant areas include creating new short-term programs aligned with employer needs and expanding existing offerings to increase capacity and strengthen the pipeline for essential positions.

Many LeadingAge Ohio members already collaborate closely with secondary and postsecondary institutions, making this opportunity particularly timely. Potential projects may support training for direct care workers, certified nursing assistants, home health aides, or other roles essential to long-term services and supports. Grants range from approximately $1 million to $4 million over up to four years, offering substantial backing for program development and employer engagement. Providers considering this opportunity should note the December 3, 2025 application deadline. Additional information about the U.S. Department of Education’s grant processes is available here, and details specific to this funding opportunity can be found here. Members interested in exploring possibilities may contact Randi Hamill at rhamill@leadingageohio.org.