Career & Technical Student Organization (CTSO) – Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Year 5 Continuation
Career & Technical Student Organization (CTSO) – Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Year 5 Continuation funds leadership and competitions for New Jersey secondary students to build career readiness.
Funder: New Jersey Department of Education
Due Dates: October 22, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. (Application) | December 31, 2026 (First interim report) | April 30, 2027 (Second interim report) | May 31, 2027 (Budget modifications) | July 15, 2027 (Final reimbursement request) | July 31, 2027 (Third interim report) | October 31, 2027 (Final report)
Funding Amounts: $158,500 total available; one anticipated award of up to $158,500 for September 1, 2026–August 31, 2027
Summary: Supports statewide FBLA leadership, career preparation, student competitions, and leadership development for New Jersey secondary students.
Key Information: Only Kean University, selected in Year 1, is eligible for this continuation grant.
Description
The New Jersey Department of Education’s Office of Career Readiness administers this fifth-year continuation grant to provide statewide leadership and coordination for Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). Local chapters are established at local educational agencies serving secondary students. FBLA prepares students to become community-minded business leaders through career preparation and leadership experiences.
The program supports co-curricular activities, competitive events, awards, student leadership activities, and professional development for teachers and advisors. Its goals include developing career readiness, self-confidence, leadership skills, and realistic career choices. Activities connect students’ academic and career and technical education studies with real-world experiences. Project planning must address student recruitment, inclusion of special populations, leadership and professional development, and management of grant funds and student accounts.
