Maryland Department of Labor Awarding Nearly $17 Million in Federal Funds to Local Adult Education Providers

Proposals Must Be Submitted by March 2

BALTIMORE, MD (January 15, 2020) – Maryland Department of Labor (Labor) Secretary Tiffany P. Robinson today announced that Labor will be awarding nearly $17 million in federal funds to local organizations that will help expand access to adult education opportunities for Marylanders. Labor is now accepting proposals for these grant funds to support local programs in adult basic and secondary education, English language acquisition, and civics education.

“Labor welcomes the opportunity to receive proposals from these local organizations that play such an important role in supporting adult learners while they achieve their personal and professional goals,” said Secretary Robinson. “By investing in and increasing access to adult education programs, we are helping Marylanders obtain the skills they need to build a better future for themselves, their families, and our state’s workforce.”

A wide range of organizations are eligible and encouraged to submit proposals for Labor’s adult education funding, including: local education agencies, community-based organizations, faith-based organizations, volunteer literacy organizations, institutions of higher education, public, private, or nonprofit agencies, libraries, public housing authorities, and more.

This funding opportunity is part of Maryland’s implementation of the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which serves both jobseekers and businesses. WIOA addresses the needs of jobseekers, including adult learners, by establishing a workforce system that helps them access education, training, and support services to gain employment and succeed in the labor market. Maryland’s implementation of WIOA supports employer needs by preparing the skilled workers they need to compete in the global economy.

To be eligible for this funding, completed applications must be submitted to Labor’s Adult Education Office by 4:00 p.m. on March 2, 2020. An Intent to Apply notice should be submitted by February 14, 2020. Award announcements will be made in May. To access application materials, please visit the Adult Education and Literacy Services grant page.

Labor will be holding a Technical Assistance Webinar for interested applicants on January 31, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. If you have any questions, please contact Chief of Adult Instructional Services Ellen Beattie by emailing ellen.beattie@maryland.gov or calling 410-767-0161.

About the Maryland Department of Labor
The Maryland Department of Labor is committed to safeguarding and protecting Marylanders. We're proud to support the economic stability of the state by providing businesses, the workforce, and the consuming public with high-quality, customer-focused regulatory, employment, and training services. For updates and information, follow the Maryland Department of Labor on Twitter (@MD_Labor), Facebook and visit our website.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Fallon Pearre