OSERS: RSA: Disability Innovation Fund (DIF)--Creating a 21st Century Workforce of Youth and Adults with Disabilities Through the Transformation of Education, Career, and Competitive Integrated Employment Model Demonstration Project, ALN 84.421F
ID: 353411Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Department of Education (ED)

Eligible Applicants

Others

Funding Category

Education

Funding Instrument

Grant

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Education is inviting applications for the Disability Innovation Fund (DIF) aimed at creating a 21st Century workforce for youth and adults with disabilities through innovative model demonstration projects. The program seeks to enhance competitive integrated employment (CIE) opportunities by developing strategies that leverage technology and provide transitional support, particularly for justice-involved youth and individuals with disabilities who are disconnected from education and employment. With an estimated total program funding of $236,313,221 and the expectation of awarding 29 grants, interested applicants must submit their applications by July 8, 2024, and can direct inquiries to Cassandra P. Shoffler at 84.421F@ed.gov.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The document serves as a notice from the Department of Education regarding common instructions for applicants seeking funding through discretionary grant programs. It emphasizes revisions made to streamline the application process, eliminating barriers for potential applicants. Key changes include the removal of references to the Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) in favor of the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and various technical updates to application requirements. The revised instructions outline the necessary steps for application submission, including obtaining application packages, compliance with electronic submission stipulations via Grants.gov, and maintaining active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM). It stresses the importance of adhering to submission deadlines and provides guidelines for submitting paper applications if electronic submission is not feasible. The document intends to clarify processes, enhance accessibility, and assist applicants in navigating the funding application landscape while adhering to federal grant protocols. Overall, the revisions aim to foster a more efficient and transparent application process for federal education grants.
    The U.S. Department of Education is inviting applications for the 2024 Disability Innovation Fund (DIF) aimed at enhancing competitive integrated employment (CIE) opportunities for youth and adults with disabilities. This initiative focuses on model demonstration projects that develop innovative strategies and programs, in areas such as advanced technology careers, transitional support for justice-involved youth, and resources for individuals with acquired disabilities or those who are disconnected from education and employment opportunities. The grant application process includes specific timelines, with applications due by July 8, 2024. Key priorities emphasize leveraging technological advancements and personalized approaches to meet individual needs while fostering partnerships among various stakeholders, including educational institutions and community organizations. The project aims to address barriers including limited access to education, employment, and social services, seeking to facilitate successful transitions for individuals with disabilities into thriving workforce environments.
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