Secondary CTE Regional Planning Partnership Grant

The Secondary CTE Regional Planning Partnership Grant is administered by the Iowa Department of Education to support regional career and technical education planning partnerships across the state. These partnerships were established under Iowa administrative code to help school districts and community colleges collaborate in delivering high-quality, efficient, and cost-effective secondary career and technical education programs. The program emphasizes coordinated regional planning to align educational offerings with workforce needs, particularly those tied to high-skill, high-wage, and high-demand occupations. The purpose of this funding opportunity is to ensure that each Regional Planning Partnership (RPP) can effectively carry out its required duties, including strategic planning, program coordination, and system-level collaboration. Each partnership must submit an annual application outlining its governance structure, operational plans, and financial allocations. The funding supports activities that strengthen regional coordination, improve program quality, and expand access to career and technical education opportunities for students. Allowable uses of funds are clearly defined and include staffing and administrative support necessary to operate the partnership, as well as professional development for educators within the region. Funds may also be used to coordinate and maintain career guidance systems, support work-based learning opportunities, and purchase equipment and instructional resources necessary for career and technical education programs. Consumable supplies are permitted only when directly tied to curriculum delivery and may not be used for items that will be sold, used personally, or associated with fundraising activities. All expenditures must demonstrate alignment with targeted workforce outcomes defined by the state. Eligibility for this grant is limited to approved regional career and technical education planning partnerships representing participating school districts and community colleges within Iowa. These partnerships must demonstrate compliance with statutory requirements and maintain appropriate governance structures, including bylaws, membership documentation, and approved multi-year plans. The application process requires submission of detailed documentation such as meeting minutes, financial reports, budget forms, and schedules for future activities and program approvals. Applications must be submitted through the Iowa Grants system, and the submission process closely mirrors prior funding cycles. Required components include governance documentation, financial reporting, and strategic planning materials. The final application deadline for the current cycle is October 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM. Applicants are expected to provide comprehensive and accurate documentation demonstrating both compliance and alignment with program goals. The grant operates on an annual cycle, with applications required each year for continued participation and funding. The performance period for funded activities spans from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. While an award announcement date is not specified, the recurring nature of the program indicates that future cycles will follow a similar timeline. Applicants are encouraged to coordinate closely with the program officer for guidance on application requirements and allowable uses of funds.

Ensure all expenditures align with high-skill high-wage high-demand occupations and avoid unallowable consumable uses such as resale or personal use