Workforce Data Quality Initiative - WDQI Round 10

The U.S. Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration (ETA) has issued a Funding Opportunity Announcement focused on assessing the financial systems of potential grantees to ensure public trust in the management of federal funds. The document outlines the necessary criteria for grantee financial responsibility as per federal regulations, emphasizing the importance of robust accounting systems that accurately record the receipt and expenditure of funds, maintain documentation, and integrate internal controls. Key sections include applicant identification details, the organization's financial stability, and the accounting system's capabilities, requiring clear affirmative responses regarding the adequacy of financial records, cost allocation, and internal controls. Applicants must disclose any legal issues that may impact financial management and provide substantiating financial statements reviewed by certified public accountants. Additionally, organizations that already maintain a Payment Management System account with ETA must provide relevant account information. This comprehensive assessment aims to ensure that grantees have the financial infrastructure necessary to fulfill grant requirements responsibly and transparently, laying the groundwork for effective management of federal assistance.

The U.S. Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration (ETA) has announced the availability of approximately $11.6 million in grants for the Workforce Data Quality Initiative (WDQI) Round 10, authorized under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), to modernize state longitudinal workforce databases and data-sharing systems. The program aims to enhance data infrastructures for better evaluation of education and workforce programs, linking data across various programs to improve employment outcomes, particularly for individuals facing barriers to employment. Eligible applicants include State Workforce Agencies (SWAs) from all 50 states and territories, with individual grants capped at $2.5 million over a three-year period. The application process includes submission guidelines via Grants.gov, ensuring applicants follow detailed requirements to address project needs, expected outcomes, and project design. Grants aim to promote data-driven strategies, improve reporting systems for eligible training providers, and establish governance structures for effective data use, aligning with labor market demands and educational pathways. The WDQI grants serve as a crucial resource for states seeking to create and maintain comprehensive data systems to better serve job seekers, meet workforce needs, and ultimately demonstrate the effectiveness of career preparation initiatives.