Career Launch Grant
Forecasted
The Career Launch Grant from COSI funds scholarships and career services for Colorado students in high-demand fields to boost degree completion and workforce readiness.
Funder: Colorado Department of Higher Education (COSI)
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2027 (application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to $1.5 million available for the cycle; no minimum or maximum request; awards must be matched 1:1 by community-raised funds; two-year grant term.
Summary: Supports Colorado nonprofits to provide scholarships and career connections for students in high-demand fields, leveraging matched funds to increase postsecondary attainment.
Key Information: Grant is competitive and uses a reimbursement model; only 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) nonprofits are eligible to apply.
Description
The Career Launch Grant, administered by the Colorado Department of Higher Education’s Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative (COSI), is designed to remove financial barriers to postsecondary education for Colorado students. The program provides grant funding to nonprofit organizations, which must match the grant 1:1 with new or increased community-raised scholarship dollars. These funds are used to support tuition and cost of attendance for students pursuing credentials in high-demand fields, especially those aligned with Colorado’s Top Jobs. In addition to financial support, grantees are required to connect students with career services, helping ensure a smooth transition from education to employment. The grant aims to reduce student loan debt, increase completion of degrees and certificates, and foster a skilled workforce that supports Colorado’s economic growth.
