FY2027: MassSTEP ABE and MassSTEP ESOL
Funds partnerships to deliver integrated adult education and workforce training, enabling adults to earn credentials and secure jobs in high-demand Massachusetts industries.
Funder: Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (Full application) | June 2027 (Non-LEA indirect cost rate application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $60,000 per cohort (max $120,000 for two cohorts); total pool approx. $300,000; project duration up to 1 year with possible 1-year renewal.
Summary: Supports partnerships to deliver integrated adult education, workforce training, and job readiness programs for adults seeking credentials and employment in high-demand fields.
Key Information: Must partner with an approved occupational training provider; proposals without required partners or effectiveness data will not be reviewed.
Description
This competitive grant funds integrated adult education and workforce training programs in Massachusetts, known as MassSTEP ABE (Adult Basic Education) and MassSTEP ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). The goal is to accelerate learning and employment outcomes for adults by enabling them to earn high school credentials, industry-recognized credentials, and access living-wage jobs in high-demand sectors. Programs must deliver adult education, workforce preparation, and occupational training concurrently, using evidence-based and contextualized models. MassSTEP ESOL programs must also incorporate civics education.
Eligible projects are typically 16 weeks or less and must be developed through partnerships between education providers, approved workforce training providers (such as state-approved Career Technical Education (CTE) programs), employers, and workforce partners. Proposals must demonstrate strong employer engagement, alignment with local workforce needs, and adherence to state and federal policy requirements.
