EnsuringPro-American WorkerCritical MineralsSupply Chain inthe Western Hemisphere

The Bureau of International Labor Affairs within the U.S. Department of Labor is preparing to release a cooperative agreement funding opportunity focused on strengthening labor standards within critical minerals supply chains in the Western Hemisphere. This initiative reflects the federal government’s broader strategy to support American workers and enhance domestic manufacturing competitiveness by ensuring that international supply chains adhere to fair labor practices. The Bureau of International Labor Affairs is responsible for advancing labor rights globally and works with governments, civil society, and private sector actors to promote compliance with international labor standards. The purpose of this funding opportunity is to support a technical assistance project that targets labor conditions in the extraction and processing of key critical minerals, specifically copper, lithium, and silver. These minerals are essential inputs for modern technologies and clean energy systems, making their supply chains strategically important to the United States. The funded project is expected to improve transparency and enforcement of labor standards in selected countries within the Western Hemisphere, thereby contributing to more ethical sourcing practices and strengthening economic ties that benefit U.S. industry. The scope of the project includes engagement with a wide range of stakeholders such as partner government agencies, regional organizations, worker representatives, and private sector entities. Activities are expected to focus on improving labor law enforcement mechanisms, increasing compliance with established labor standards, and enhancing coordination among stakeholders involved in the supply chain. While specific allowable costs are not detailed in this forecast notice, the funding is intended to support a comprehensive three year technical assistance effort aligned with the stated objectives. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad and inclusive, encompassing commercial entities, international organizations, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, faith based organizations, community based organizations, and public international organizations. The Department of Labor emphasizes nondiscrimination in the selection and administration of awards, ensuring that organizations are not favored or excluded based on religious affiliation or similar characteristics. This inclusive approach is intended to encourage a diverse pool of applicants capable of delivering impactful project outcomes. At this stage, the opportunity is presented as a forecast and notice of intent, meaning that applications are not yet being accepted. The estimated posting date for the full funding announcement is September 1, 2026, with an anticipated application deadline of October 17, 2026. Applications will be required to be submitted electronically through the designated federal grants platform by 1159 pm Eastern Time on the due date. The anticipated project start date is December 31, 2026, and the period of performance is expected to span three years from that date. The total estimated program funding is 5000000 dollars, with a single award expected to be made at that full amount. There is no cost sharing or matching requirement associated with this opportunity. Applicants are encouraged to monitor updates through the official grants portal and may direct questions to the Bureau of International Labor Affairs via the provided email address or contact number. As the funding announcement is still under development, additional details regarding evaluation criteria, application components, and reporting requirements will be made available in the final solicitation.