Request for Proposals

Transcription

1 State Fiscal Year 2016 Pathways to Prosperity (P2P) Request for Proposals RFP Application IMPORTANT DATES RFP Release: Monday, December 14, 2015 Bidder s Webinar: Friday, December 18, 2015; 1:00pm 2:00pm Web conference: 65d1c Call in number: (US) Conference Code: Proposals Due: Due no later than 4:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 19, 2016 Accepted in one PDF document (not scanned) sent to: AdultCompetitiveGrants.DEED@state.mn.us Review and Selection Period: Wednesday, January 20, 2016 Tuesday, February 9, 2016 Notification to Wednesday, February 10, 2016 Applicants: Contract Start March 1, 2016 Date: Contract End Date: June 30, 2017 LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. DEED s Mission: To enhance the economic success of individuals, businesses, and communities by improving opportunities for prosperity and independence. Upon request, these materials can be made available in alternative formats for person with disabilities. Submit questions about this RFP to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development at AdultCompetitiveGrants.DEED@state.mn.us

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction: Funds Available, Career Pathways Definition Page 3 Types of Proposals, Project Goal, Eligible Applicants, Page 4 Bidder s Conference, Proposal Dates Allowable Costs and Budget Category Definitions Page 5 Duration of Funding, Exemptions and Details, Award Notification, Page 6-7 Grant Requirements, Program and Fiscal Reporting Requirements Program Design and Required Components Page 8-10 Participant Eligibility/Targeted Populations, Program and Participant Page 10 Outcomes Partnership Commitment Page 11 Proposal Evaluation Page Application Content and Instructions Page 14 FORM 1 Application Cover Sheet Page 15 FORM 2 Performance Outcomes Calculator Page 16 FORM 3 Program Service Capacity Page FORM 4 Participant Plan Page 19 FORM 5 Partnership Chart Page 20 FORM 6 Budget Information Summary Page 21 FORM 7 Concise Budget Backup Page 22 FORM 8 Fiscal Capacity Checklist Page Glossary of Terms Page Definitions of Targeted Populations Page P a g e

3 Introduction: State Fiscal Year 2016 Minnesota Pathways to Prosperity (P2P) Funds Available The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) announces the availability of up to $2,570,276 of funding for Minnesota Pathways to Prosperity (P2P) Grants for round two SFY The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) has allocated TANF Innovation Funds within the total funds available for this request for proposals. Some proposals may qualify to be funded by DHS and if awarded, there will be additional paperwork as required by DHS. While matching funds are not required, applicants are encouraged to use leveraged resources such as WIA Adult, Adult Basic Education, philanthropic resources and employer contributions to achieve the program goals as appropriate. What is a Career Pathway? Career Pathway (as per WIOA legislation, 2014) The term career pathway means a combination of rigorous and high-quality education, training and other services that: (A) Aligns with the skill needs of industries in the economy of the state or regional economy involved; (B) Prepares an individual to be successful in a full range of secondary or postsecondary education options, including apprenticeships; (C) Includes counseling to support an individual in achieving the individual s education and career goals; (D) Includes, as appropriate, education offered concurrently with and in the same context as workforce preparation activities and training for a specific occupation or occupational cluster; (E) Organizes education, training and other services to meet the particular needs of an individual in a manner that accelerates the educational and career advancement of the individual to the extent practicable; (F) Enables an individual to attain a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent, and at least one recognized postsecondary credential; and (G) (H) Helps an individual enter or advance within a specific occupation or occupational cluster. In addition to the elements of a career pathway per WIOA legislation (A-G listed above), P2P emphasizes participant placement into a related career field with the potential for family sustaining wage growth. 3 P a g e

4 Tiers of Proposals accepted (cannot select both Emerging and Enhanced) 1) Emerging Proposal ($200,000 limit) for organizations not currently awarded with a MN FastTRAC Adult Career Pathways or Pathways to Prosperity grant who are looking to expand or create a career pathways program for adults. All applicants must use the Minnesota Pathways to Prosperity model of career pathways on page seven of this document. 2) Enhanced Proposal ($250,000 limit) for organizations currently awarded with a DEED competitive Adult Career Pathways grant applying to enhance existing programming. Such enhancements could include addressing equity and disparities gaps, for example programs could target SNAP eligible participants, individuals facing housing instability, individuals with disabilities, with special focus on lowincome and addressing racial disparities in the community, etc. Past project outcomes will be used to determine award. All applicants must use the Minnesota Pathways to Prosperity model of adult career pathways on page seven of this document. Enhanced proposals must demonstrate how the program will be sustained. 3) Outreach Proposal ($50,000 limit) to identify new ways to strengthen targeted outreach to individuals facing barriers to employment and training by working within disparate communities. Outreach could target SNAP eligible participants, individuals facing housing instability, individuals with disabilities, with special focus on low-income and addressing racial disparities within the community. Outreach must be combined with another P2P Career Pathway program that will serve individuals as part of the grant. These funds can be requested individually (as part of a previous Pathways to Prosperity award) or in conjunction with an Emerging or Enhanced Proposal request. Project Goal P2P funding will support increased participation of enrollees in career pathway programming to strengthen development of increased career awareness, acquisition of basic skills education, participation in skills-training programs, and placement into positions in high growth, high demand industries capable of long-term employment at wages permitting family self-sufficiency. Grantees will use their award to support job-driven approaches in programs within career pathway systems and programs to equip individuals with the skills, competencies, and credentials necessary to help them obtain in-demand jobs, increase earnings, and advance in their careers. All proposals need to address appropriate partners including Adult Basic Education, postsecondary training providers, employers, workforce development entities, and other partnering organizations. Proposals should address sustainability considerations taken into account during program design. Applicants are also encouraged to co-enroll individuals into other state and federal WIOA funds including but not limited to TANF and SNAP because these partnerships contribute to systematic changes to provide aligned services to Minnesotans facing barriers. Eligible Applicants Eligible grantee organizations include but are not limited to state* or local government units, nonprofit organizations, community action agencies, business organizations, business associations, or labor organizations. *State entities may apply in partnership with a workforce development entity that can hold a master grant with DEED. Bidder s Conference DEED program staff will hold a bidder s conference to answer questions related to the solicitation and to help establish clear participation guidelines for interested organizations. The bidder s conference will be held on 4 P a g e

5 Friday, December 18, 2015; 1:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m by webinar, please join by clicking on the link below : Call-in toll-free number: , Conference Code: Proposal Dates Provide a single electronic proposal in PDF (not scanned), including all attachments and copies of Letters of Commitment, to AdultCompetitiveGrants.DEED@state.mn.us no later than 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 19, Allowable Costs Applicants may apply up to the limit of the proposal type, with a cap on average cost per participant of $4,000. DEED reserves the right to fund awards at a lower amount in an effort to meet widespread need. The following are allowable expenditures (see DEED s Cost Category Definitions and Budget Guidance Administration: DEED applies to all programs these parameters set forth by WIA Final Rules and Regulations (20 CFR, ). Administration costs are generally associated with the expenditures related to the overall operation of the employment and training system and are associated with functions not related to the direct provision of services to program participants. These costs can be both personnel and non-personnel and both direct and indirect. Direct Customer Training: Any tuition, books, fees, OJT reimbursements, participant wages and fringes, and Personal Adjustment/Independent Living Skills Training, provided directly on the customer s/consumer s behalf which results in an industry-recognized credential or in an effort towards one. Do not include staff costs unless staff is an instructor in the direct customer training. (See DEED s Credentials and Training Policy: Customized Training and On-the-Job Training Policy: Apprenticeship Training Policy: Service Related Costs: All staff, office supplies, and other costs necessary to process customers in some type of intensive, vocational counseling and/or training services, exclusive of actual monies spent on tuition, books, OJT reimbursements, job coaching, supported employment, personal assistance services (Vocational Rehabilitation Services), or other direct and tangible training goods and services received by customers. Specifically, service related/intensive services may include the following: o Comprehensive and specialized assessments of the skill levels and service needs of adults, which may include: - diagnostic testing and use of other assessment tools; and - In-depth interviewing and evaluation to identify employment barriers and appropriate employment goals. o Development of an individual employment plan, to identify the employment goals, appropriate achievement objectives, and appropriate combination of services for the participant to achieve the employment goals; o Group counseling; o Individual counseling and career planning; o Case management for participants seeking training services; and o Short-term prevocational services, including development of learning skills, communication skills, interviewing skills, punctuality, personal maintenance skills, and professional conduct, to prepare individuals for unsubsidized employment or training. Support Services: Costs for services and items considered necessary for participation in the program including, but not limited to: transportation, housing/rental assistance, health and medical costs, travel 5 P a g e

6 assistance, legal aid, personal counseling, clothing, tools, etc. For non-wia programs, include the expenditures in accordance with the appropriate rules and regulations. (See DEED s Support Services Policy: DEED will not reimburse expenses incurred prior to the start date of the contract, per Minnesota Statutes Section 16A.15, subdivision 3 and Section 16C.05, subdivision 2. DEED is awaiting federal regulations on WIOA allowable costs to be released. As WIOA is rolled out, the allowable costs listed above are subject to change. For this RFP, please use the WIA allowable costs outlined above to plan your project budget. Duration of Funding and Period of Performance Proposals funded under this program are intended to cover a 16 - month period. DEED expects the completed contracts to be in place no later than March 1, Contracts beginning on that date will operate through June 30, DEED will be issuing Pathway to Prosperity RFP s on an annual basis; therefore DEED anticipates a similar grant round to open in winter of 2016 for the period of July 1, 2016 through June 30, DEED reserves the right to make changes to this as appropriate to what is passed during legislative session. Exemptions and Details This request does not obligate DEED to complete the work contemplated in this notice. The State reserves the right to cancel this solicitation. All expenses incurred in responding to this notice are solely the responsibility of the responder/applicant. Award Notification DEED will notify final funding decisions no later than Wednesday, February 10, DEED will make award decisions based on programming components, organizational capacity, geography of participants served, targeted sectors, populations to be served, and cost per participant. The Commissioner of DEED will make all final funding decisions, based on a panel of expert review and recommendations. All awarded organizations will be required to attend a one-day technical assistance training (location and date determined after award announcement). In addition to the one-day training, three professional development opportunities will be provided for grantees. The topics of the professional development will be centered on career navigation, enhanced academic instruction and program administration. Grant Requirements All grant agreements entered into with DEED require both state and federal tax identification numbers and a valid DUNS number issued by Dun & Bradstreet. Applicants must also comply with all state and federal requirements including worker s compensation, affirmative action, data privacy, Equal Employment Opportunity and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), among other requirements. Applicants must be prepared to comply with state data collection, reporting and project evaluation requirements. Grant recipients new to DEED-funded grants must complete a master grant agreement before DEED will disburse any funds. Program Reporting Requirements Grantees must use Workforce One as the client data tracking system. If grantee does not already use Workforce One, its staff must learn and commit to using the system. Grantees must also submit quarterly progress reports including the outcomes listed in the approved work plan and budget. DEED program staff will send out a quarterly progress report template to those awarded. 6 P a g e

7 Financial Reporting Requirements Grantees must prepare and submit monthly Reimbursement Payment Request forms or Financial Status Report (FSR) to a grant administrator within DEED. RPRs or FSRs must accurately reflect expenditures and obligations consistent with rates of participation, which DEED will be able to track in Workforce One. Grantees receiving funds via the MN Department of Human Services will also be required to submit the required 2902 forms. 7 P a g e

8 Minnesota Pathways to Prosperity Program Design & Required Components P2P programming contains four required components Career Navigation, Bridge Programming, Enhanced Academic Instruction, and Employment and Retention delivered through collaboration of partners and in a manner appropriate for the needs and circumstances of the participant. 1. Career Navigation: Navigators and supportive services are essential to the success of individuals in MN Pathways to Prosperity programming. Career development includes work culture, exploration and planning within the specified career area. These career development services and financial supports are available to participants throughout the entire program into employment placement and retention. Support services tailored to adults provide each adult with the information and wrap-around services such as transportation or child care assistance needed to reach their career and employment goals. Within Career Navigation it may be necessary for an Integrated Resource Team approach to be incorporated into the service strategy for individuals with multiple barriers. An Integrated Resource Team (IRT) is an informal, customer level, resource coordination strategy that brings together all of the service providers engaged with an individual customer to improve communication and collaboration that results in enhanced coordination of services and supports for a job seeker. IRTs are organized around an individual job seeker who experiences multiple challenges to employment. Career Navigation also ensures employer participation, labor market analysis of in-demand occupations, intake and assessment alignment, and engagement of community based organizations through successful alignment of programs and resources. 2. Bridge Programming: Contextualized instruction integrates industry/occupation knowledge within basic reading, writing, math and language skills. Bridge programming includes contextualized basic reading, math, and work readiness skills within an occupational sector that focuses on enhancing foundational skills preparing individuals for post-secondary coursework. This level of programming may also include entry level, stackable credential attainment such as Certified Nursing Assistant, ServSafe, and others to allow individuals the opportunity to earn and learn while continuing their educational pathway. 3. Enhanced Academic Instruction: Boosts traditional educational programming such as integrated instruction, concurrent Adult Basic Education with Career and Technical Education (CTE), concurrent developmental education with CTE, etc. This level of programming typically includes credit bearing coursework (12-16 credits), articulation to credit or credit for prior learning towards certificates, degrees, diplomas, etc. within in-demand occupations. Minnesota Pathways to Prosperity seeks opportunities for adults to earn college credit. Programs that currently do not provide opportunities to earn credits should include a plan to develop a credit option by either offering a prior learning assessment option or by developing and implementing the Pathways to Prosperity program within the credit-bearing career and technical education program of the college. 4. Employment Placement & Retention: The participant secures employment in a related career field with the potential for family sustaining wage growth. This component also makes available job search and job placement assistance, supportive services to aid in search and employment retention. Activities include resume-building, interview skills, job coaching, financial literacy, and mentoring. Supportive services for transportation, childcare, necessary tools/clothing for employment, and other necessary supports to secure and retain employment. In addition to these required elements, all P2P projects should provide a seamless transition to the next level 8 P a g e

9 of programming and/or postsecondary education and career pathway employment which includes alignment with employers, on the job training opportunities, and other work experiences. 9 P a g e

10 Please use the chart below to determine how you might evaluate each required component in your proposal. FOUR REQUIRED COMPONENTS Career Navigation Bridge Programming Enhanced Academic Instruction Employment Placement and Retention ENHANCED PROJECT PROPOSALS A Career Navigator delivers individualized and cohort career development services. The Career Navigator engages the participant, partners, and employers and convenes everyone for the benefit of the participant. Enhanced proposals are encouraged to implement an Integration Resource Team. Proposals must address how support services will be used. Support services should be intentionally tailored to the targeted populations being served. The integration of both Bridge Programming and Enhanced Academic Instruction in a sector must be addressed in your plan to maintain your programming, as required by all currently funded MN FastTRAC Career Pathways grants. Proposals must address a plan for participants to achieve non-credit and/or credit bearing coursework (12-16 credits), articulation to credit or credit for prior learning towards certificates, degrees, diplomas, etc. within in-demand occupations. LMI data should support growth in the field of training. Proposals must address a plan to place participants in trainingrelated careers at a familysustaining wage and an employment retention plan. EMERGING PROJECT PROPOSALS A Career Navigator delivers individualized and cohort career development services. The Career Navigator engages the participant, partners, and employers and convenes everyone for the benefit of the participant. Proposals must address how support services will be used. Support services should be intentionally tailored to the targeted populations being served. The integration of both Bridge Programming and Enhanced Academic Instruction must be addressed in your plan. All projects are encouraged to be sector-based to align bridge programming and enhanced academic instruction. Proposals must address a plan for participants to achieve non-credit and/or credit bearing coursework (12-16 credits), articulation to credit or credit for prior learning towards certificates, degrees, diplomas, etc. within in-demand occupations. LMI data should support growth in the field of training. Proposals must address a plan to place participants in trainingrelated careers at a familysustaining wage and an employment retention plan. INSUFFICIENT A project plan that operates with a program manager only or an employment counselor without case management will be deemed insufficient for this program. A project plan that only includes either Bridge Programming or Enhanced Academic Instruction without a plan for the participants to progress upwards in their educational/career path will be deemed insufficient for this program. A project plan that only includes either Bridge Programming or Enhanced Academic Instruction without a plan for the participants to progress upwards in their educational/career path will be deemed insufficient for this program. A project plan that concludes with the completion of training will be deemed insufficient for this program. Participant Eligibility and Targeted Populations: Minnesota Pathways to Prosperity projects are designed for adults who traditionally face multiple barriers to employment, and who are in need of enhanced educational and supportive services to be successful in securing long-term family sustaining wages. All participants enrolled must be 18 years old or older (exception with DEED waiver for individual cases), authorized to work in the United States, and meet at least one of the targeted populations listed below. Definitions of targeted populations are included in the Glossary of Terms on page 28 of this RFP. 10 P a g e

11 These populations include people: of color; experiencing housing insecurity; with a criminal record; lacking a high school diploma or equivalent; with disabilities; unemployed for 26 or more consecutive weeks; and possessing inadequate language or math skills. In addition, special consideration should be provided to veterans, those returning to work after receiving public assistance, low-income, and older workers. Note: Local programs may apply additional eligibility requirements depending on the specific skill standards of the program to meet industry sector needs. Minnesota Pathways to Prosperity eligibility criteria may be subject to change. Program and Participant Outcomes All Pathways to Prosperity program providers will use assessments consistent with program requirements to place participants into the appropriate courses and to measure individual progress. All providers will use DEED s quantitative and qualitative data-tracking system Workforce One to collect and analyze key information about program participants. MN Pathway to Prosperity programs are evaluated on the following measures. These measures are based on research indicating that one year of postsecondary credit and attainment of an industry-recognized credential lead to career pathway employment. Basic skills acquisition Attainment of NRS Educational Functioning Level (EFL) gain as adopted by the Minnesota Department of Education ABE Office. Retention in program Retention of participants throughout the duration of the program, including data on attrition, identification of program challenges, etc. Credential attainment Industry relevant certification (not a work readiness certificate) including a certificate, diploma, or degree with academic credit from a post-secondary institution. Credit attainment from an accredited post-secondary institution within or leading to credentialed pathway. Job placement Participant obtained employment in an occupation related to FastTRAC education and training. Employment retention Participant maintains employment for 12 months after job placement. Wage progression Pre- and post-program completion (e.g., survey, annual reporting, data match), increased earnings after job placement. Continuation of career pathway training Participant enrolls in next level of career pathway coursework. Participant satisfaction and other process goals as defined by the local partnership. Measure employer involvement and feedback at the local level. In addition, DEED will compile required information in a report card to the MN State Legislature per 116L.98, Subd. 3. Uniform outcome report card. Partnership Commitment For the purpose of MN P2P, a partner is defined as one who performs specific service functions and is responsible for the delivery of outcomes. This programming requires partners who perform key roles based on the four components of the MN P2P model. Priority consideration of funds will be allocated to workforce partnerships providing a full range of services aligned with client needs. 11 P a g e

12 Proposal Evaluation Scoring: 100 points available Required Executive Summary: One page, single-spaced, single-sided, using Calibri size 12 font. Effective Project Design Need Statement: Describe why the proposed project is needed in this region. Address target population needs, employer needs, community needs, and educational institution needs (under-enrolled programs, programs with high withdraw/failure rates, etc.). Labor Market/ In Demand Occupations: Describe how the proposed project targets in demand occupations with high labor market value. What is the career pathway trajectory within this sector? 25 points Target Population: Who is the target population? How many adults do you plan to serve? What percentage of participants will be from communities with employment disparities? Cost Per Participant: What is the estimated cost per participant? What costs are covered by grant funds? What costs are leveraged? Explain how you identified the cost per participant. (Anticipate an average cost of approximately $4,000 per participant) Recruitment Plan: How will you recruit participants? How will you assess interests, level of work experience, education, and skill competencies prior to enrollment to ensure that participants are a good match for the program? Enrollment and Orientation: How will you prepare those who are interested and eligible for participation in the program? Structure and Participant Retention Strategy Participant Retention Strategy: What strategies will you use to keep participants engaged in the project? 25 points 20 Points Career Pathway Structure: How does the proposed project use navigator workforce development support services connected to bridge and enhanced academic instruction education programming to transition adults into and through industry relevant postsecondary credential attainment to employment? Organizational Capacity and Relevant Experience How will your agency s past experience benefit this project? o List any initiatives you currently operate that impact this group of individuals. o List performance outcomes for initiatives that you previously operated for similar target populations. What is the staffing plan for this project? Include a synopsis of each staff position and the responsibilities associated with that position. Explain how this project fits within the overarching structure of the organization. 12 P a g e

13 18 Points 5 Points 5 Points 2 Point Partnerships and Project Sustainability Are there key partners (adult basic education, higher education, etc.) in your proposed project? What are the roles, responsibilities, and commitments of each partner? How will the partners be contributing to the sustainability of this project? List any additional funders (public or private) who are supporting this project or you have applied to for support and describe your history/experience working with them. Will program participants be co-enrolled in programming offered within your partnership structure? If yes, which program? Will you be exploring alignment and coenrollment among WIA programming, Ability to Benefit, etc.? If so, how? Upon implementation, how do you see this effort continuing in the future? How does this project demonstrate broad collaboration and sustainability of employer engagement and/or leadership with partners? Does your project provide services in greater Minnesota as well as the metro area? Assessment and Evaluation How do you plan to evaluate the effectiveness of the project? How well did the proposal address the Program and Participant Outcomes that the completed project will be assessed against? Who specifically in your organization is responsible for data collection and reporting? Budget: The total budget request may not exceed the max of your tier of proposal. A maximum of 10 percent may be used for administrative costs, at closeout it must be 10 percent of the actual amount expended. While DEED does not require matching funds, applicants are encouraged to use leveraged resources. The Budget Information Summary (Form 6) is a summary for use in the proposal process and must be included in the application; a concise budget backup (Form 7) needs to be included. Letters of Commitment: Letters of Commitment from each partner are required. Each Letter of Commitment must clearly state what each partner (education, workforce development, employer, etc.) is committing to the program and to the overall partnership. 13 P a g e

14 Minnesota Pathways to Prosperity Application Content and Instructions Application Cover Sheet (Form 1) Complete the name and address of the applicant agency and/or fiscal agent as well as the name and address of the contact person for the project. Include both federal and state Tax ID numbers. Indicate the total level of funding requested. Be sure to include an authorized signature and date on the application. Executive Summary (one-page limit) Provide a one page, single-spaced, single-sided overview of the proposed project, using Calibri size 12 font, with one inch margins. Application Narrative (fifteen-page limit) The Application Narrative may not exceed fifteen single-sided, double-spaced pages, using Calibri size 12 font, with one inch margins. This component should address the Program Design and Required Components, in addition to the Need Statement, Labor Market/In Demand Occupations, Target Populations, Cost Per Participant, Recruitment Plan, Enrollment and Orientation, Retention Strategy, and Career Pathway Structure. Performance Calculator (Form 2) Complete the expected outcomes of your project. The View Projected Performance will automatically calculate your performance metrics. Program Services Capacity (Form 3) Complete the information on program, data, equal opportunity, universal access, and program eligibility and enrollment. Participant Plan by Quarter (Form 4) Describe the goals for the funding period, for each quarter of the grant life. The plan MUST include measurable outcomes. Partnership Chart (Form 5) List all partners contributing resources, staff and/or time and other entities who are partnering with your organization. Additional pages may be added if needed. Letters of Commitment Attach Letters of Commitment from each of the partners listed in the Partnership Chart as collaborating or cooperating with the project. Please note that these are Letters of Commitment and should be able to spell out what the entity is providing towards the project. Budget Information Summary (Form 6) and concise budget backup (Form 7) attachment Complete the Budget Information Summary. A maximum of 10 percent of funding may be used for administrative costs. DEED staff will take the average cost per participant into consideration relative to the stated outcomes of the project. While there is no matching funds requirement, applicants are encouraged to use leveraged resources. Please attach a concise budget backup detailing the breakdown of activities under each cost category and the DEED/private funders and/or resources that will be used for each activity. Fiscal Capacity Checklist (Form 8) The Fiscal Capacity Checklist is a standardized form that is used to determine the basic financial capacity of grant applicants. This information meets state grants management requirements as established in Minnesota Statutes 16B.97 and 16B P a g e

15 State Fiscal Year 2016 Minnesota Pathways to Prosperity Form 1 Application Cover Sheet Date: Applicant Agency and Address: Please use legal name and provide full address. This is the fiscal agent with whom the grant agreement will be executed. Director Name: Telephone: Address of Director (if different from above): Program Contact Name: Telephone: Address of Program Contact (if different from above): Federal Tax ID: (required) DUNS Number: (required) Minnesota Tax ID: (required) Project Information Project Name: Geographic Area(s) Served: Targeted Populations Proposal Tier (select one): Emerging Enhanced Outreach Project Start Date: March 1, 2016 Project End Date: June 30, 2017 Total Amount of Funding Requested: I certify that the information contained herein is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge and that I am authorized to submit this application on behalf of the applicant. Authorized Signature Title Date 15 P a g e

16 Form 2: Pathways to Prosperity Performance Outcomes Calculator Date: Fill in the yellow cells below with your best estimate of project participant outcomes. Only count those participants who will be served with the grant funds you re requesting. Double-click on the cell to open the imbedded excel document, and then input your figures. Based on the data you enter in the yellow cells, your outcomes will automatically populate in the gray chart below. FORM 3: DEED PROGRAM SERVICES CAPACITY Program Participants A) How many individuals will you serve through this grant? 1) Of these, how many invdividuals will be unemployed at enrollment into this grant? 2) Of these, how many individuals will enter credentialed training through this grant? 3) Of these, how many individuals will increase their basic skills acquisition? 4) Of these, how many individuals will exit into employment? B) How many individuals (from A2) will earn a credential? C) How many individuals (from A1) will exit into employment? D) How many individuals (from A4) will still be working 6 months after exit? E) What is the average annual salary of exiters into employment? F) The total amount of DEED funds requesting Entire Grant Period View Projected Performance DEED Performance Metrics Projected Entered Employment Rate (C/A1) #DIV/0! Employment Retention (D/A4) #DIV/0! Average 6-Month Earnings (E/2) $ - Credential Attainment (B/A) #DIV/0! Credential Attainment Among Trainees (B/A2) #DIV/0! Cost Per Participant (F/A) #DIV/0! Cost Per Placement (F/A4) #DIV/0! Cost Per Credential (F/B) #DIV/0! 16 P a g e

17 PROGRAM/PROJECT SERVICES 1. Do you currently have case management staff to serve the number of participants identified in this proposal? [ ] Yes [ ] No - If no, what is your plan to increase staff? 2. Have staff who will work directly with participants received case management training? [ ] Yes - If yes, what kind of training and how often? [ ] No - If no, what is your plan for training staff in case management? 3. Has your organization provided case management services for another employment and training organization? [ ] Yes If yes, to which organization? [ ] No DATA AND INFORMATION COLLECTION AND MAINTENANCE 1. Does your organization currently use Workforce One? If not, what is the management information system currently used to enter participant data? 2. What security measures ensure confidentiality of electronic data and paper documents? 3. What is your policy or process regarding record retention? 4. Does your organization have a process for documenting the activities participants are involved in? 5. Does your organization conduct follow-up on participants that have entered into unsubsidized employment? [ ] Yes [ ] No [ ] N/A 6. Does your organization adhere to the Handling and Protection of Personally Identifiable Information (TEGL 39-11) procedures? [ ] Yes [ ] No 17 P a g e

18 PROGRAM/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMPLAINTS 1. Does your organization and/or subcontractors have a process in place to address program and discrimination complaints? [ ] Yes [ ] No If no, what is your plan for developing a complaint process? (Note: A process must be in place to address both program and discrimination complaints prior to the implementation of the grant.) 2. If so, is this information provided to participants at time of enrollment? [ ] Yes [ ] No UNIVERSAL ACCESS 1. Does the building site where your organization will provide program/project services have accessible rest rooms and elevators? [ ] Yes [ ] No 2. Is there at least one entrance to the building that is wheelchair accessible? [ ] Yes [ ] No 3. Do you provide program/project materials in alternative formats and communication? This can include reading of essential documents, TTY/TDD or Minnesota Relay. [ ] Yes [ ] No PARTICIPANT ELIGIBILITY/ ENROLLMENT 1. Does your organization and/or subcontractors require obtaining these documents to determine eligibility? Government/Official Identification [ ] Yes [ ] No Social Security documentation (copy of social security card, tax return or W-2) [ ] Yes [ ] No Citizenship or Right to Work [ ] Yes [ ] No 2. Is this information requested at time of enrollment? Selective Service documentation ( for males born after 12/31/59) [ ] Yes [ ] No Veteran Status (DD214) [ ] Yes [ ] No 3. Is this information provided at time of enrollment? Tennessen Warning that includes information on Data Privacy and Complaint procedures [ ] Yes [ ] No Authorization to Release Information [ ] Yes [ ] No 18 P a g e

19 FORM 4: Participant Plan by Quarter Date: Quarters: Qtr start/end: 3/1/2015 3/31/16 4/1/16 6/30/16 7/1/16 9/30/16 10/1/16 12/31/16 1/1/17 3/31/17 4/1/17 6/30/17 Total Enrollments Total Credential Obtained Entered Employment Exits to Employment All other Exits Total Exits 19 P a g e

20 FORM 5: Partnership Chart Date: The information contained in this chart should support the Work Plan as explained in the narrative. Only those organizations which have already committed resources, staff and time (or are prepared to do so) should be listed. A Letter of Commitment MUST be included in the application from each person or organization listed below. Type of Organization Name and Address of Organization Type of Commitment: (time, staff, resources, space, referrals, etc.) Key Contact Person and Telephone Number Letter Enclosed (Required) 20 P a g e

21 FORM 6: BUDGET INFORMATION SUMMARY Date: A) Please complete budget summary to include leveraged funding. Budget in section A of this form and Form 7 need to be aligned. COST CATEGORY TOTAL FUNDS REQUESTED TOTAL FUNDS LEVERAGED TOTAL PROJECT FUNDS Administration Costs (Cannot exceed 10% of the total amount requested) Direct Customer Training Costs (Should be at least 50% of total amount requested) Service-Related Costs (Should be at max 40% of total amount requested) Support Services Costs (Cannot exceed 15% of total amount requested) TOTAL: B) Please complete this quarterly budget table by filling in your plan for DEED requested funds only, in cumulative fashion. Cost Category Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q5 Q6 Qtr start/end: 3/1/16 3/31/16 4/1/16 6/30/16 7/1/16 9/30/16 Administration Costs Direct Customer Training Costs Service-Related Costs Support Services Costs Total 10/1/16 12/31/16 1/1/17 3/31/17 4/1/17 6/30/17 21 P a g e

22 FORM 7: CONCISE BUDGET BACKUP - Please insert more rows to this form as appropriate, it is acceptable for this document to be more than one page. Title Administration Costs Ex: Project Administrator Description Agency providing Service Requested From DEED Leveraged Public/Private Ex: Provide project oversight and coordination Ex: Jobs for All, Inc. $5,000 $5,019 Direct Customer Training Costs Total Administration Costs: $ $ Ex: Driving Prep Course Ex: licensing info, assessments, hard-skills, on-the-road practice Ex: MN Career Center $25,000 $3,000 Service-related (Intensive Services) Costs Ex: Intake and assessment Ex: Includes managing registration and eligibility paperwork and administering the Employability Measure assessment to identify any barriers Total Direct Customer Training Costs: $ $ Ex: Partner Express Inc. $13,000 $5,697 Support Services Costs Total Service-Related Costs: $ $ Ex: Transportation Bus passes and gas cards will be available on an-as needed basis Ex: MN Career Center $7,000 $1,500 Total Support Services Costs: Grand Totals: 22 P a g e

23 FORM 8: FISCAL CAPACITY CHECKLIST Date: This form is used to determine the financial capacity of grant applicants. The creation and implementation of this form is in response to the best practices stated in the Office of Legislative Auditor s report State Grants to Nonprofit Organizations, January SECTION A: APPLICANT INFORMATION 1. Organization Name and Address 2. Employer Identification Number: 3. Number of Employees: Full Time: Part Time: 4. If applicable, when did the applicant receive 501(c) status? (MM/DD/YYYY) 5a. Is the applicant affiliated with or managed by any other organizations (e.g. regional or national offices)? [ ] Yes [ ] No If yes, provide details: 6a. Total revenue in most recent accounting period (12 months): 5b. Does the applicant receive management or financial assistance from any other organizations? [ ] Yes [ ] No If yes, provide details: 6b. How many different funding sources does the total revenue come from? 7. Does the applicant have written policies and procedures for the following business processes? a. Accounting [ ] Yes [ ] No [ ] Not Sure If yes, please attach a copy of the table of contents. b. Purchasing [ ] Yes [ ] No [ ] Not Sure If yes, please attach a copy of the table of contents. c. Payroll [ ] Yes [ ] No [ ] Not Sure If yes, please attach a copy of the table of contents. SECTION B: ACCOUNTING SYSTEM 1. Has a federal or state agency issued an official opinion regarding the adequacy of the applicant s accounting system for the collection, identification, and allocation of costs for grants? [ ] Yes [ ] No a. If yes, provide the name and address of the reviewing agency: b. Attach a copy of the latest governmental review and any subsequent documents. 2. Which of the following best describes the accounting system? [ ] Manual [ ] Automated [ ] Combination 3. Does the accounting system identify the deposits and expenditures of program funds for each and every grant separately? [ ] Yes [ ] No [ ] Not Sure 4. If the applicant has multiple programs within a grant, does the accounting system record the expenditures for each and every program separately by budget line items? [ ] Yes [ ] No [ ] Not Sure [ ] Not Applicable 5. Are times studies conducted for an employee(s) who receives funding from multiple sources? [ ] Yes [ ] No [ ] Not Sure [ ] No, Multiple Sources 6. Does the accounting system have a way to identify over-spending of grant funds? [ ] Yes [ ] No [ ] Not Sure SECTION C: FUND CONTROL 23 P a g e

24 1. Is a separate bank account maintained for grant funds? [ ] Yes [ ] No [ ] Not Sure 2. If grant funds are mixed with other funds, can the grant expenses be easily identified? [ ] Yes [ ] No [ ] Not Sure [ ] Not Applicable 3. Are the officials of the organization bonded? [ ] Yes [ ] No [ ] Not Sure SECTION D: FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 1. Did an independent certified public accountant (CPA) ever examine the organization s financial statements? If yes, attach a copy of the management letter from the most recent audit. [ ] Yes [ ] No [ ] Not Sure SECTION E: CERTIFICATION I certify that the above information is complete and correct to the best of my knowledge. 1. Authorized Signature: 2. Date: 3. Title: This form was adapted from an Accounting System and Financial Capability Report Form used by the Minnesota Office of Higher Education, August P a g e

25 GLOSSARY OF TERMS Adult Education (as per WIOA legislation, 2014) The term adult education means academic instruction and education services below the postsecondary level that increase the individual s ability to (A) read, write, and speak in English and perform mathematics or other activities necessary for the attainment of a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent; (B) transition to postsecondary education and training; and (C) obtain employment. Assessments Standardized academic assessments that meet the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) ABE Office and Minnesota State College and University (MnSCU) System guidelines. MDE ABE has approved the use of the Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment System (CASAS) for ESL and ABE students and the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) for ABE students. MnSCU has approved the use of the Accuplacer and the ESL Accuplacer for course placement. Average 6-Month Earnings - Of those who are employed in the first, second, and third quarters after exit: Total earnings in the second plus the total earnings in the third quarters after exit divided by the number of adult participants who exit. Career Development Services provided across systems to include work culture, exploration and planning within a career area, job placement and job retention services. Can be delivered through bridge programs that explicitly link ABE with preparation for postsecondary education and occupational skill attainment. Can be delivered through the enhanced academic instruction that pairs instructors from ABE and postsecondary instructors to deliver occupational training supplemented by English language and basic skills instruction. Career Navigator Local program staff that provides an intensive role in the grant. He/she is involved in the entire process of the program from intake to completion. Career Navigators have a presence in the classroom with the instructor and may co-teach a portion of the classroom instruction, in addition to case managing the participants. Career Pathway (as per WIOA legislation, 2014) The term career pathway means a combination of rigorous and high-quality education, training and other services that: (A) Aligns with the skill needs of industries in the economy of the State or regional economy involved; (B) Prepares an individual to be successful in a full range of secondary or postsecondary education options, including apprenticeships; (C) Includes counseling to support an individual in achieving the individual s education and career goals; (D) Includes, as appropriate, education offered concurrently with and in the same context as workforce (E) preparation activities and training for a specific occupation or occupational cluster; Organizes education, training, and other services to meet the particular needs of an individual in a manner that accelerates the educational and career advancement of the individual to the extent practicable; (F) Enables an individual to attain a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent, and at least 1 recognized postsecondary credential; and (G) Helps an individual enter or advance within a specific occupation or occupational cluster. (H) In addition to the elements of a career pathway per WIOA legislation (A-G listed above), P2P emphasizes participant placement into a related career field with the potential for family sustaining wage growth. Career Planning (as per WIOA legislation, 2014) - the provision of a client-centered approach in the delivery of services, designed (A) to prepare and coordinate comprehensive employment plans, such as service strategies, for participants to ensure access to necessary workforce investment activities and supportive services, using where feasible, computerbased technologies; and (B) to provide job, education, and career counseling, as appropriate during program participation and after job placement. Certificate, diploma, or degree Academic award means a certificate, diploma or degree as defined by MnSCU Policy , Part 3. Alternatively, according to Pathways Out of Poverty Solicitation, a certificate is awarded in recognition of an individual s attainment of measurable technical or occupational skills necessary to gain employment or advance 25 P a g e

26 within an occupation. These technical or occupational skills are based on standards developed or endorsed by employers. Certificates awarded by workforce investment boards are not included in this definition. Work readiness certificates are also not included in this definition. A certificate is awarded in recognition of an individual s attainment of technical or occupational skills by: A state educational agency or a state agency responsible for administering vocational and technical education within a state. An institution of higher education described in Section 102 of the Higher Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1002) that is qualified to participate in the student financial assistance programs authorized by Title IV of that Act. This includes community colleges, proprietary schools, and all other institutions of higher education that are eligible to participate in Federal student financial aid programs. A professional, industry, or employer organization (e.g., National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence certification, National Institute for Metalworking Skills, Inc., Machining Level I credential) or a product manufacturer or developer (e.g., Microsoft Certified Database Administrator, Certified Novell Engineer, Sun Certified Java Programmer) using a valid and reliable assessment of an individual s knowledge, skills, and abilities. A registered apprenticeship program. A public regulatory agency, upon an individual s fulfillment of educational, work experience, or skill requirements that are legally necessary for an individual to use an occupational or professional title or to practice an occupation or profession (e.g., FAA aviation mechanic certification, state certified asbestos inspector). A program that has been approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs to offer education benefits to veterans and other eligible persons. Job Corps centers that issue certificates. Institutions of higher education which is [sic] formally controlled, or has been formally sanctioned, or chartered, by the governing body of an Indian tribe or tribes. Contextualized Instruction A set of teaching, learning, and assessment practices that are aimed directly at developing the skills and knowledge needed and are applicable to specific situations or to perform specific tasks that have been identified as meaningful and relevant to the individual and to their career advancement. Cost Per Participant - Of those enrolled in the project, the average cost for each participant in this project. (Total Grant Amount / Total Participants) Cost Per Placement - Of those who exit into employment, the average cost for exit into employment. (Total Exits into Employment / Total Participants) Cost Per Credential - Of those who are enrolled in this project, the average cost for those who earn a credential. (Total Grant Amount / Participants that earn a credential) Credential - A school diploma, GED, or other recognized equivalents, post-secondary degrees/certificates, registered apprenticeship certificates, all State Education Agency recognized credentials or occupational licenses, recognized skill standards, and/or licensure for industry-recognized certificates. Credential Attainment - Of the total enrollment in your project, those that earned a credential. Credential Attainment Among Trainees - Of those who enrolled in credentialed training that earned a credential. Credentialed Training Credit or non-credit bearing training that result in an industry recognized credential certificate, diploma, or degree (as defined in this glossary) when successfully completed. Educational Functioning Level - According to the, the Educational Functioning Level identifies where an individual assesses along a progression of Adult Basic Education academic levels. 26 P a g e