Updated National Dislocated Worker Grant Program Guidance and Application Information
This grant provides updated guidance and application details for the National Dislocated Worker Grant Program; contact Jenifer McEnery for access issues.
Funder: Employment and Training Administration
Due Dates: December 31, 2028 (final application deadline) | July 1, 2026 (Opioid-response DWG window opens) | September 30, 2026 (Opioid-response DWG window closes)
Funding Amounts: Award ceiling: $10,000,000 (Disaster Recovery DWGs); $2,000,000 (Opioid or Employment Recovery DWGs, higher in exceptional cases). Typical period of performance: up to 36 months. Total program funding: $300,000,000.
Summary: Supports state, local, tribal, and eligible entities in providing disaster-relief employment and reemployment services to dislocated workers and others affected by major economic disruptions, disasters, or public health emergencies (including the opioid crisis).
Key Information: Opioid-response applications only accepted July 1–September 30 annually; one active opioid DWG per eligible applicant at a time.
Description
This program provides National Dislocated Worker Grants (DWGs) to support disaster-relief employment and reemployment services for individuals affected by major economic dislocations, disasters, or federally declared emergencies—including public health emergencies such as the opioid crisis. The grants are intended to help communities recover by providing temporary employment, workforce training, and supportive services for eligible participants. There are two main types of DWGs:
- Disaster Recovery DWGs: Fund disaster-relief employment and related activities in response to natural disasters, public health emergencies (e.g., opioid crisis), or other federally declared emergencies.
- Employment Recovery DWGs: Expand capacity to serve dislocated workers and meet increased demand for employment and training following major economic disruptions, such as mass layoffs or plant closures.
The program emphasizes rapid response, coordination with emergency management, and supporting pathways to unsubsidized employment.
