Pre-Employment Transition Services Paid Work-Based Learning Experiences Program

The Pre-Employment Transition Services Paid Work-Based Learning Experiences program is administered by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development through its Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services. This initiative is funded under federal vocational rehabilitation allocations authorized by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. The program is designed to expand meaningful employment pathways for students with disabilities by providing structured, paid work-based learning opportunities that support their transition into competitive integrated employment. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support organizations in delivering comprehensive Pre-Employment Transition Services to students with disabilities between the ages of 16 and 21. The program requires providers to facilitate a structured sequence that includes pre-employment training, a paid work-based learning experience totaling 150 hours, and follow-up post-program services. These services are intended to build foundational workplace skills, enhance career exploration, and support informed decision-making regarding future employment or education pathways. Participants must be engaged in activities such as job exploration counseling, workplace readiness training, self-advocacy instruction, and post-secondary education counseling. Funding for this program totals 18750000 for the fiscal year, with individual contract awards negotiated based on applicant proposals and organizational capacity. A base funding benchmark of 750000 per provider is referenced, though final awards depend on budget justification and evaluation outcomes. Funds may be used for staffing, program delivery, participant wages, and necessary supports such as auxiliary aids. However, strict limitations apply, including prohibitions on entertainment costs, food purchases, political activities, and capital expenditures such as building acquisition. Administrative costs are capped and subject to federal cost principles, and an administrative fee is deducted from awarded funds. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, independent living centers, faith-based organizations, and community rehabilitation programs that demonstrate capacity to serve individuals with disabilities. Applicants must have at least two years of relevant experience and a proven record in delivering employment or Pre-ETS services. Additional requirements include compliance with state and federal regulations, possession of a valid tax clearance certificate, registration in SAM with a Unique Entity Identifier, and accreditation or pursuit of accreditation in transition services. Applicants must also demonstrate the ability to manage government contracts and meet performance thresholds. The application process requires submission of a letter of intent followed by a full application through the NJDOLWD electronic grants system. The application must include detailed organizational information, program narratives, budget schedules, statements of need, and supporting documentation such as insurance and partnership agreements. Mandatory participation in a technical assistance workshop is required to maintain eligibility. Applications are evaluated based on criteria including organizational capacity, program design, budget justification, and demonstrated need, with a total scoring system used to rank submissions. The timeline for this opportunity includes an announcement date in early July, a letter of intent deadline shortly thereafter, and a final application deadline within the same month. Awards are subject to panel review, contract negotiation, and approval by the Commissioner. The period of performance runs from October 1 through September 30 of the following year, with the possibility of annual renewal for up to three years based on performance and funding availability. Monthly reporting and compliance monitoring are required for all awarded providers. This program operates on an annual cycle tied to federal funding availability and emphasizes accountability, measurable outcomes, and alignment with workforce development priorities. Successful applicants are expected to deliver high-quality services, maintain strong partnerships with schools and employers, and ensure that participating students gain meaningful exposure to real-world work environments that support long-term employment success.

Ensure strong demonstration of organizational capacity and experience with disabilities services; align budget clearly with deliverables; provide detailed recruitment and service delivery plan