Program Year 2026 Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), Indian and Native American Programs Employment and Training Grants - Youth

The Indian and Native American Programs – Employment and Training Grants (FOA-ETA-26-20-IY) are administered by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration (ETA). These grants are issued under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), Section 166, and provide financial support to eligible tribal, nonprofit, and community-based organizations serving American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities. The grant program is focused on improving employment outcomes for these populations through a combination of education, training, and support services that foster self-sufficiency and economic independence. The Department is required to run this competition every four years, and successful applicants from the 2026 round will receive subsequent annual allotments through Program Year 2029, contingent on funding and performance. The Youth Services portion of this program—designated as Supplemental Youth Services Program (SYSP)—is specifically designed to serve Native American youth between the ages of 14 and 24 who reside on or near reservations, as well as in Alaska, Hawaii, and Oklahoma. These funds support summer and year-round training and employment activities aimed at at-risk and high-need youth populations. Services may include education support, career readiness training, soft-skills development, and entry into pre-apprenticeships or Registered Apprenticeship programs. While the SYSP application is not scored separately, it is contingent upon the applicant also receiving Comprehensive Services Program (CSP) funding for adults. Applicants for SYSP funds must submit a distinct application package through Grants.gov under announcement FOA-ETA-26-20-IY. This includes the SF-424 form, a detailed budget (SF-424A), and a Youth Narrative. The Youth Narrative must specify the number of youth to be served, outreach and retention strategies for the most in-need participants, planned service offerings, and educational partnerships. This application does not count toward the 20-page limit imposed on the 4-Year Strategic Plan required for adult services. The Department encourages applicants to also attach this narrative to the CSP submission to ensure reviewers are aware of the full scope of services planned. The overall purpose of this grant program is to advance economic and social development in Native communities. The Department encourages innovative approaches that align with community goals, including use of Learning and Employment Records (LERs), AI-enhanced career pathways, and collaboration with other federally funded programs through the 477 program. Youth funding requests are evaluated only after an adult grant has been successfully awarded. Applications must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 22, 2026. The expected award start date is July 1, 2026, with all youth funding made available on April 1 preceding each program year. Performance is tracked using WIOA indicators, including employment rates, earnings, credential attainment, and measurable skill gains. Though the youth portion is unscored, selected grantees are expected to meet targets provided in their narratives. The funding opportunity provides a total of approximately $76 million, with $14 million reserved for SYSP. The award amounts vary based on the number of low-income youth in eligible geographies. Questions can be directed to [email protected]. Applicants are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with all requirements outlined in the NOFO and accompanying 2026 Application Guide to ensure a complete and competitive submission.

Clearly identify target population; include specific data; describe educational partnerships; submit CSP and SYSP packages separately.