Workforce Data Quality Initiative - WDQI Round 10

The Workforce Data Quality Initiative (WDQI) Round 10 is a grant program administered by the Employment and Training Administration (ETA) within the U.S. Department of Labor. It is authorized under Section 169 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and is designed to support State Workforce Agencies (SWAs) in modernizing and enhancing their workforce longitudinal administrative databases. The initiative underscores the importance of robust data systems for evaluating the effectiveness of education and training programs and improving outcomes for workers, particularly those facing barriers to employment. The primary objectives of this grant are to strengthen data linkages across education, workforce, and social service programs; enhance reporting mechanisms for Eligible Training Providers (ETPs); foster data-driven strategies for workforce development; support the creation of user-focused informational tools; implement comprehensive data governance structures; and develop interoperable data tools like learning and employment records. These systems aim to better match workers with employment opportunities, recognize diverse forms of learning, and align education offerings with labor market needs. Funding for WDQI Round 10 totals approximately $11.6 million, with up to five individual grants available, each capped at $2.5 million. The funding will be provided as a grant for a 36-month period beginning on July 1, 2025. Applicants are not required to provide cost sharing, but leveraged resources are encouraged. The application deadline is May 27, 2025, and all submissions must be made via Grants.gov. SWAs in Colorado, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Virginia are ineligible to apply due to existing WDQI grants through June 30, 2026. Eligible applicants are limited to SWAs from the 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. territories. Applicants must follow a detailed submission protocol, including completion of forms SF-424 and SF-424A, a detailed budget narrative, a project narrative (max 20 pages), and various attachments, including letters of agreement and data-sharing agreements. Applications will be evaluated on several criteria: statement of need, expected outcomes, project design, organizational capacity, past performance, and budget justification. Scoring will be based on how thoroughly applicants meet each requirement. Selected grantees must comply with various federal guidelines, including data privacy laws and open licensing requirements. They will be expected to produce quarterly financial and performance reports and may be subject to an evaluation by the Department of Labor. Additional information and technical support resources for applicants are available on the Department’s website and through WorkforceGPS. For further inquiries, applicants may contact Ariam Ferro, Grants Management Specialist, via email at WDQI_FOA-ETA-25-32@dol.gov. The full funding opportunity announcement can also be accessed through the Department of Labor’s grant portal or Grants.gov.