Training and Employment Guidance Letter (02-26) for FY 2026 Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending
This letter provides guidance for FY 2026 community project funding recipients and encourages them to subscribe on Grants.gov for future updates.
Funder: Employment and Training Administration
Due Dates: September 30, 2026 (Optional abstract for technical assistance) | January 31, 2027 (Full application, 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time)
Funding Amounts: $50,000–$5,320,000 per award; $95,501,000 total for 108 expected awards; 24- or 36-month project models
Summary: Funds congressionally designated workforce development demonstration and pilot projects through FY 2026 Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending.
Key Information: Only organizations named in Appendix I may apply, for their congressionally approved project and funding amount.
Description
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration (ETA) administers these FY 2026 Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending grants for projects designated by Congress. Authorized by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 and funded through Section 169(c) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), the program supports 108 demonstration and pilot projects.
Projects provide direct employment and training services or develop workforce programs serving a public benefit. Designated activities include apprenticeships, healthcare and manufacturing workforce training, career pathways, supportive services, and training equipment. Each application must follow the project description approved by Congress, demonstrate connections to the state or local workforce system, and propose measurable outcomes. This opportunity provides application instructions for designated recipients rather than an open competition for new projects.
