Advancing Registered Apprenticeship into the 21st Century: Collaborating For Success; Solicitation for Grant Applications, 2620-2632 [E9-653]

Agencies

• Employment and Training Administration
• DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 10 (Thursday, January 15, 2009)]
[Notices]
[Pages 2620-2632]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-653]


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DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

Employment and Training Administration


Advancing Registered Apprenticeship into the 21st Century: 
Collaborating For Success; Solicitation for Grant Applications

    Announcement Type: New Notice of solicitation for grant 
applications.
    Funding Opportunity Number: SGA/DFA PY 08-11.
    Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance CFDA Number: 17.201.

[[Page 2621]]

    Key Dates: The closing date for receipt of application under this 
announcement is 60 days from the date of publication in the Federal 
Register.
SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training 
Administration (ETA), announces the availability of approximately $6.5 
million for 10-20 grants to promote the adoption of the 21st century 
Registered Apprenticeship framework established by the Final Rule 
published on October 29, 2008 (73 FR 64402), promulgating revised 20 
CFR Part 29, Labor Standards for the Registration of Apprenticeship 
Programs. The grants will fund the development and/or adaptation of 
national guideline standards that incorporate competency-based 
progression; hybrid-style progression; and/or interim credentials. 
Funds are also available to train staff, apprenticeship instructors and 
members on the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship framework and on 
the development of standards that utilize the elements of the 21st 
century Registered Apprenticeship framework as established by the Final 
Rule. National industry and employer associations, labor-management 
organizations and other organizations that demonstrate the capacity to 
advance registered apprenticeship through the development of new or 
modified apprenticeship standards using the elements of the 21st 
century Registered Apprenticeship framework are eligible to apply for 
grant funds.
    To be considered for an award, grant applications must incorporate 
at least four of the following seven components:
    1. Continued expansion into fast growing and/or new and emerging 
industries (including construction).
    2. Development of new or modified programs or guideline standards 
that utilize competency-based (see Part VIII--Section 2--Key 
Definitions) or hybrid training models (see Part VIII--Section 2--Key 
Definitions).
    3. Use of interim credentialing to acknowledge the skills an 
apprentice attains during training.
    4. Adoption of Technology-Based Learning strategies for related 
instruction.
    5. Strategic partnerships with the Office of Apprenticeship (OA), 
State Apprenticeship Agencies (SAA), and the public workforce 
investment system.
    6. Innovative strategies to serve under-represented populations, 
particularly youth and women, to meet the talent development needs of 
regional economies through Registered Apprenticeship.
    7. Innovative Partnerships with Education (Secondary and Post-
Secondary) and other key stakeholders.
    Allowable activities may include developing new or modifying 
existing standards for apprenticeship programs (including national 
guideline standards), developing curricula to support these standards; 
using technology-based learning strategies; developing skill assessment 
tools for competency-based models; training and education to take 
advantage of the opportunities outlined in the new regulatory 
requirements; and conducting outreach and training efforts to educate 
members, affiliates, staff and partners on the new model.
    All applicants must develop or modify at least one national 
guideline standard with at least four programs and train a minimum of 
100 apprentices in the new model. Additionally, all applicants must 
demonstrate that they have the ability and expertise to develop the new 
framework and the capacity to provide training to their membership. 
This expertise and capacity can be demonstrated by the individual 
applicant or through partnership with other organizations.
    ETA recognizes that the use of these approaches will offer 
apprentices greater opportunities to increase their knowledge and 
attain the skills that emerging and high growth industries demand. 
Additionally, the use of interim credentialing and competency-based 
models will ensure that apprentices receive recognition for the skills 
and competencies they have attained during and prior to completion of a 
traditional time-based program. ETA believes that expanding the use of 
these Apprenticeship models will increase the ability of apprenticeship 
programs to meet the needs of industries that require more flexibility 
in training a worker for the required level of proficiency and 
expertise.

ADDRESSES: To apply by mail, please submit one (1) blue-ink signed, 
typewritten original of the application and two (2) signed photocopies 
in one package to the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training 
Administration, Division of Federal Assistance, Attention: Mamie 
Williams, Reference SGA/DFA PY 08-11, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW., 
Room N-4716, Washington, DC 20210. Information about applying online 
through https://www.grants.gov can be found in Section IV.B(3) of this 
document. Applicants are advised that mail delivery in the Washington 
area may be delayed due to mail decontamination procedures. Hand 
delivered proposals will be received at the above address.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Registered Apprenticeship system is 
administered by the Employment and Training Administration's (ETA) 
Office of Apprenticeship (OA) in partnership with State Apprenticeship 
Agencies (SAA), and is an important strategy to prepare workers for 
successful careers. It is a significant postsecondary education, 
training and employment option available nationwide, driven by the 
needs of businesses and industries. Registered Apprenticeship trains 
workers for high-skilled, high-wage careers, with an employer 
satisfaction rate of 85 percent. Registered Apprenticeship has more 
than 29,000 programs, 250,000 employers and 468,000 apprentices--
predominantly in high-growth industries. Industries, employer 
associations, and labor-management organizations, which sponsor most of 
the Registered Apprenticeship programs, are particularly well situated 
to help OA implement the Final Rule and advance Registered 
Apprenticeship into the 21st century.
    The intent of this solicitation is to promote the 21st century 
Registered Apprenticeship framework as outlined in the new regulations 
within existing national organizations, their affiliates and members 
which have Registered Apprenticeship programs. The primary focus is 
making funds available to develop new or adapt existing national 
guideline standards to include competency-based models, hybrid models 
(combination of time and competency-based models) and/or interim 
credentials. Funds are also available to train staff, apprenticeship 
instructors and members on this new framework and on the new standards 
that will be developed.
    This solicitation provides background information on the Advancing 
Apprenticeship Initiative and critical elements required of projects 
funded under the solicitation. It also describes the application 
submission requirements, the process that eligible applicants must use 
to apply for funds covered by this solicitation, and how grantees will 
be selected. This announcement consists of seven parts:
     Part I provides background information on Registered 
Apprenticeship.
     Part II describes the size and nature of the anticipated 
awards.
     Part III describes the qualifications of an eligible 
applicant.
     Part IV provides information on the application and 
submission process.

[[Page 2622]]

     Part V explains the review process and rating criteria 
that will be used to evaluate applications.
     Part VI provides award administration information.
     Part VII contains ETA contact information.
     Part VIII contains `Veterans Priority' information and key 
definitions that may be referenced within this notice.

Part I. Funding Opportunity Description

Background

    Registered Apprenticeship programs offer employment and a 
combination of on-the-job learning and related technical and 
theoretical instruction. Apprentices are employed at the start of their 
apprenticeship and work through a series of defined curricula until the 
completion of their apprenticeship programs. The duration of training, 
and the skills and competencies required for mastery, are driven by the 
needs of businesses and industries. Traditional apprenticeship programs 
require a specific number of hours of on-the-job learning. While this 
model is successful and preferred in certain industries, increasingly, 
new and high-growth industries are establishing competency-based and 
hybrid (competency and time-based) apprenticeship strategies that focus 
on the mastery of key skills and allow motivated workers to progress at 
their own pace. Currently, the Registered Apprenticeship system 
approves time-based, competency-based, and a hybrid of time- and 
competency-based programs, and provides technical assistance to help 
industries develop interim credentials.
    Interim credentials earned through Registered Apprenticeship 
programs, and issued by the Department's Office of Apprenticeship as 
certificates of training, are increasingly recognized nationwide as 
portable industry credentials. The primary and ultimate apprentice 
certification is a Certificate of Completion of Apprenticeship, which 
is awarded at the end of the apprenticeship. Many apprenticeship 
programs--particularly in high-growth industries such as health care, 
advanced manufacturing and transportation--now also offer interim 
credentials and training certificates based on a competency model that 
leads to a Certificate of Completion. There may be beginning, 
intermediate, advanced, and specialty certification levels. Registered 
Apprenticeship programs are flexible to also allow credit for previous 
apprenticeship-related experience. In addition, interim credentials are 
recognized by the publicly-funded workforce investment system.
    Increased flexibility and additional options will help advance 
Registered Apprenticeship in all industries that require employees to 
adapt quickly to changing skill needs and technology advances driven by 
demand and competition in a 21st century global economy. These 
additional options will further enable Registered Apprenticeship to 
meet the needs of sponsors and apprentices and facilitate partnerships 
with and the leveraging of workforce and education system resources.
    In order to ensure that Registered Apprenticeship is integrated 
into service delivery strategies for businesses and the workforce, it 
is critical to support collaboration between the Registered 
Apprenticeship infrastructure, national industry and/or employer 
associations, labor management organizations, and other organizations 
that demonstrate the capacity to advance registered apprenticeship 
through the development of new or modified apprenticeship standards 
using the elements of the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship 
framework. These stakeholders are uniquely positioned to integrate 
Registered Apprenticeship into business engagement strategies by 
encouraging the development of new apprenticeship programs. National 
industry and/or employer associations, national labor-management and/or 
other national organizations can leverage the unique capacity of OA and 
SAA apprenticeship staff to provide technical assistance for 
prospective or existing programs. These national groups can also 
enhance strategic regional development by integrating innovative 
approaches to registered apprenticeship into their talent development 
with their local affiliates.

Part II. Award Information

1. Award Amount

    ETA anticipates awarding between 10 to 20 grants with funding 
identified for each of three major ETA activities outlined below. 
Funding will be awarded to help National industry and employer 
associations, labor-management organizations and other apprenticeship 
partners and stakeholders carry out one or more of the following 
project activities/components:
    A. Implementation:
    To develop and/or modify new or existing Registered Apprenticeship 
standards that utilize the elements of the proposed new Registered 
Apprenticeship framework and implement the new model in at least four 
sites with a minimum total of 100 apprentices. Up to $500,000 in 
funding will be awarded to each grantee under this component. The 
amount of funding requested should be appropriate to conduct the 
activities needed to reach the project goals under this component.
    B. Training & Outreach:
    Train members and staff on the elements of the proposed new 
Registered Apprenticeship framework. Training should be focused on 
preparing members and staff to implement apprenticeship models that 
utilize a minimum of four of the seven components described in the 
introductory summary of this grant solicitation. Up to $150,000 in 
funding will be awarded to each grantee under this component. The 
amount of funding requested should be appropriate to conduct the 
activities needed to reach the project goals under this component.
    C. Training, Outreach, and Implementation:
    This option is a combination of A and B. Up to $650,000 in funding 
will be awarded to each grantee (up to $500,000 for implementation and 
up to $150,000 for training and outreach). The amount of funding 
requested should be appropriate to conduct the activities needed to 
reach the project goals under this component.
    Applicants must provide a detailed explanation of the activities 
they propose to conduct under each funding component for which they 
apply, and detail the funding amount requested for each component. 
Applications will be scored solely on the criteria for the category (A, 
B, or C) chosen. For example; an application that seeks funding to 
accomplish the goals identified under the Implementation component will 
be evaluated based on the Implementation criteria only, while an 
application submitted under Option C will be evaluated under a set of 
combined criteria (see Part V of this notice for more details). 
Proposals will be grouped by the category for which they apply, and the 
proposals within each category will be rated separately. Applying for 
only one component of funding will not affect scoring of applications 
and will not reduce an applicant's ability to be funded. No category 
has preference over one of the others.
    ETA reserves the right to fund grants at either a lower or higher 
amount, or fund a smaller or larger number of projects based on the 
type and the number of quality submissions.

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2. Use of Funds

    Grants awarded under this solicitation are to be used to develop 
partnerships of public and private entities to promote the 21st Century 
Registered Apprenticeship framework. Partnerships should include 
representatives of business or business-related non-profit 
organizations, education and training providers, which may include 
community colleges or other community-based organizations, and the 
public workforce system. Eligible entities have the opportunity to 
collaborate with OA and SAA staff to advance their Registered 
Apprenticeship standards and programs. In addition, eligible entities 
can collaborate with other partners to:
    (1) Write new or modify existing standards that utilize competency-
based and/or hybrid (competency/time-based) models, and/or interim 
credentials, technology-based learning, or other elements of a 21st 
century Registered Apprenticeship framework; and
    (2) Conduct outreach activities to train and prepare members and/or 
staff on the implementation of such models. Optional partners may 
include educational institutions, or other community and/or workforce 
organizations as appropriate.
    Pursuant to Section V, applications will be scored on the extent to 
which applicants describe strategies for working in partnerships as 
described above.
    As provided below, these funds will be awarded to develop programs 
that provide job training and related assistance designed to assist 
employed and unemployed workers in gaining the skills and competencies 
needed to obtain or upgrade career ladder employment positions in the 
occupations and industries for which employers are using H-1B visas to 
hire foreign workers. Funds may also be used to enhance the provision 
of job training services and information, such as the development of 
curricula and program models, to build core competencies and train 
workers. Note: See Attachment 1 to this notice for a list of the ``H-1B 
Industry Sectors and Occupations''.
    Activities funded under this solicitation must support the 
advancement of Registered Apprenticeship by national industry and/or 
employer associations, national labor-management organizations, and 
other national organizations that demonstrate the capacity to advance 
registered apprenticeship through the development of new or modified 
apprenticeship standards using the elements of the 21st century 
Registered Apprenticeship framework.
    Activities to be conducted under these options may include:
Implementation
    A. Developing new or modified standards that utilize a minimum of 
four elements of the 21st century approach to preparing workers. (The 
seven elements of this approach are outlined in the introductory 
summary of this document.) Note: Applicants must pilot the new model in 
at least four programs and train a minimum of 100 apprentices total or 
25 apprentices in the new model at each site.
    B. Developing new or modified curriculum;
    C. Provide on-the-job training geared towards skills assessment;
    D. Developing a skills assessment tool for competency-based models 
(if applicable);
    E. Partnering with the Registration Agency, and/or the public 
workforce system, and/or secondary and post-secondary educational 
entities;
    F. Use of technology-based learning such as on-line discussions or 
simulations;
    G. Develop programs and training utilizing competency-based, and/or 
hybrid (competency/time-based) models, and/or interim credentials.
Training and Outreach
    A. Training approximately 10 affiliates and/or 100-150 members and 
staff on the implementation of apprenticeship standards that utilize 
the new regulatory framework governing the National Apprenticeship 
system;
    B. Training apprenticeship instructors on new requirements;
    C. Conducting outreach to members, staff, partners, and affiliated 
sites on apprenticeship standards that utilize elements of this 
framework.
Implementation, Training & Outreach
    A. Train approximately 10 affiliates and/or 100-150 members and 
staff on the implementation of apprenticeship standards that utilize 
the new regulatory framework governing the National Apprenticeship 
system;
    B. Train apprenticeship instructors on new requirements;
    C. Conduct outreach to members, staff, partners, and affiliated 
sites on apprenticeship standards that utilize elements of this 
framework.
    D. Develop new or modify existing standards that utilize a minimum 
of four elements of the 21st century approach to preparing workers. 
(The seven elements of this approach are outlined in the introductory 
summary of this document.) Note: Applicants must pilot the new model 
for one national guideline standard or in at least four programs and 
train a minimum of 100 apprentices total or 25 apprentices in the new 
model at each site.
    E. Develop new or modify existing curriculum;
    F. Provide on-the-job training geared towards skills assessment;
    G. Develop a skills assessment tool for competency-based models (if 
applicable);
    H. Partner with OA, SAA, and/or the public workforce system, and/or 
secondary and post-secondary educational entities;
    I. Use of technology-based learning such as on-line learning, 
simulations, etc.;
    J. Develop programs and training utilizing competency-based, and/or 
hybrid (competency/time-based) models, and/or interim credentials.

3. Cost Sharing

    Cost sharing or matching funds are not required as a condition for 
application, but leveraged resources are strongly encouraged and 
failure to commit and integrate leveraged resources into the project 
may have a significant impact on an applicant's ability to successfully 
compete for grant funds. As described in Part V, applications will be 
scored based on the quality and the degree to which the source and use 
of leveraged funds are clearly explained, and the extent to which they 
are integrated into the project in support of grant outcomes.

4. Period of Performance

    The period of performance will be 24 months from the date of 
execution of the grant documents.
    ETA may approve a request for a no-cost extension to grantees for 
an additional period of time based on the success of the project and 
other relevant factors.

5. Funding Restrictions

    Determinations of allowable costs will be made in accordance with 
the applicable federal cost principles. Disallowed costs are those 
charges to a grant that the grantor agency or its representative 
determines not to be allowed in accordance with the applicable federal 
cost principles or other conditions contained in the grant. Applicants 
will not be entitled to reimbursement of pre-award costs.
    Indirect Costs. As specified in the Office of Management and Budget 
(OMB) Circular Cost Principles, indirect costs are those that have been 
incurred for common or joint objectives and

[[Page 2624]]

cannot be readily identified with a particular cost objective. An 
indirect cost rate (ICR) is required when an organization operates 
under more than one grant or other activity whether federally-assisted 
or not. Organizations must use the ICR supplied by the relevant federal 
agency, in this case, ETA. If an organization requires a new ICR or has 
a pending ICR, the Grant Officer will award a temporary billing rate 
for 90 days until a provisional rate can be issued. This rate is based 
on the fact that an organization has not established an ICR agreement. 
Within this 90-day period, the organization must submit an acceptable 
indirect cost proposal to their Federal cognizant agency to obtain a 
provisional ICR.
    Administrative Costs. An entity that receives a grant under this 
solicitation may not use more than 10 percent of the amount of the 
grant to pay administrative costs associated with the program or 
project. Administrative costs, which could be both direct and indirect 
costs, are specified at 20 CFR 667.220. Administrative costs do not 
need to be identified separately from program costs on the Standard 
Form 424A Budget Information Form. Administrative costs should be 
discussed in the budget narrative and tracked through the grantee's 
accounting system. To claim any administrative costs that are also 
indirect costs, the applicant must obtain an indirect cost rate 
agreement from its Federal cognizant agency as specified above.
    Salary and Bonus Limitations. None of the funds appropriated in 
Public Law 109-149, Public Law 110-5, or prior Acts under the heading 
``Employment and Training'' that are available for expenditure on or 
after June 15, 2006, shall be used by a recipient or sub-recipient of 
such funds to pay the salary and bonuses of an individual, either as 
direct costs or indirect costs, at a rate in excess of Executive Level 
II, except as provided for under section 101 of Public Law 109-149. 
This limitation shall not apply to vendors providing goods and services 
as defined in OMB Circular A-133. See Training and Employment Guidance 
Letter number 5-06 for further clarification: https://wdr.doleta.gov/
directives/corr_doc.cfm?DOCN=2262
    Legal Rules Pertaining to Inherently Religious Activities by 
Organizations that Receive Federal Financial Assistance. Direct Federal 
grants, sub-awards, or contracts under this program must not be used to 
support inherently religious activities such as religious instruction, 
worship, or proselytizing. Therefore, organizations must take steps to 
separate, in time or location, their inherently religious activities 
from the services supported with DOL financial assistance under this 
program. Neutral, secular criteria that neither favor nor disfavor 
religion must be employed in the selection of grant and sub-grant 
recipients. In addition, under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and 
DOL regulations implementing the Workforce Investment Act, a recipient 
may not use direct Federal assistance to train a participant in 
religious activities, or employ participants to construct, operate, or 
maintain any part of a facility that is used or to be used for 
religious instruction or worship. See 29 CFR 37.6(f). Under WIA, ``no 
individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits 
of, subjected to discrimination under, or denied employment in the 
administration of or in connection with, any such program or activity 
because of race, color, religion, sex (except as otherwise permitted 
under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and the Religious 
Freedom Restoration Act of 1993), national origin, age, disability, or 
political affiliation or belief.'' Regulations pertaining to the Equal 
Treatment for Faith-Based Organizations, which includes the prohibition 
against supporting inherently religious activities with direct DOL 
financial assistance, can be found at 29 CFR Part 2, Subpart D. 
Provisions relating to the use of indirect support (such as vouchers) 
are at 29 CFR 2.33(c) and 20 CFR 667.266.
    A faith-based organization receiving federal financial assistance 
retains its independence from Federal, State, and local governments, 
and may continue to carry out its mission, including the definition, 
practice, and expression of its religious beliefs. For example, a 
faith-based organization may use space in its facilities to provide 
secular programs or services supported with Federal financial 
assistance without removing religious art, icons, scriptures, or other 
religious symbols. In addition, a faith-based organization that 
receives Federal financial assistance retains its authority over its 
internal governance, and it may retain religious terms in its 
organization's name, select its board members on a religious basis, and 
include religious references in its organization's mission statements 
and other governing documents in accordance with all program 
requirements, statutes, and other applicable requirements governing the 
conduct of DOL funded activities.
    The Department notes that the Religious Freedom Restoration Act 
(RFRA), 42 U.S.C. 2000bb, applies to all Federal law and its 
implementation. If your organization is a faith-based organization that 
makes hiring decisions on the basis of religious belief, it may be 
entitled to receive Federal financial assistance under Title I of the 
Workforce Investment Act and maintain that hiring practice even though 
Section 188 of the Workforce Investment Act contains a general ban on 
religious discrimination in employment. If you are awarded a grant, you 
will be provided with information on how to request such an exemption.
    Faith-based and community organizations may reference 
``Transforming Partnerships: How to Apply the U.S. Department of 
Labor's Equal Treatment and Religion-Related Regulations to Public-
Private Partnerships'' at: https://www.workforce3one.org/public/_
shared/detail.cfm?id=5566&simple=false.
    Intellectual Property Rights. The Federal Government reserves a 
paid-up, nonexclusive and irrevocable license to reproduce, publish or 
otherwise use, and to authorize others to use for federal purposes: (i) 
The copyright in all products developed under the grant, including a 
subgrant or contract under the grant or subgrant; and (ii) any rights 
to copyright to which the grantee, subgrantee or a contractor purchases 
ownership under an award (including but not limited to curricula, 
training models, technical assistance products, and any related 
materials). Such uses include, but are not limited to, the right to 
modify and distribute such products worldwide by any means, 
electronically or otherwise. Federal funds may not be used to pay any 
royalty or licensing fee associated with such copyrighted material, 
although they may be used to pay costs for obtaining a copy which is 
limited to the developer/seller costs of copying and shipping.
    If revenues are generated through selling products developed with 
grant funds, including intellectual property, these revenues are 
program income. Program income is added to the grant and must be 
expended for allowable grant activities.

Part III. Eligibility Information

    Under this announcement, eligible applicants include the following 
entities:
    A. National Industry Associations that demonstrate the capacity to 
advance registered apprenticeship through the development of new or 
modified apprenticeship standards using the elements of the 21st 
century Registered Apprenticeship framework;
    B. National Employer Associations that demonstrate the capacity to 
advance registered apprenticeship

[[Page 2625]]

through the development of new or modified apprenticeship standards 
using the elements of the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship 
framework;
    C. National Labor-Management Organizations that demonstrate the 
capacity to advance registered apprenticeship through the development 
of new or modified apprenticeship standards using the elements of the 
21st century Registered Apprenticeship framework; and
    D. Other National Organizations that demonstrate the capacity to 
advance registered apprenticeship through the development of new or 
modified apprenticeship standards using the elements of the 21st 
century Registered Apprenticeship framework.

Part IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address To Request Application Package

    This announcement includes all information and forms needed to 
apply for this funding opportunity.

2. Content and Form of Application Submission

    The proposal must consist of two separate and distinct parts, Parts 
I and II. Applications that fail to adhere to the instructions in this 
section will be considered non-responsive and may not be given further 
consideration.
    A. Part I is the Cost Proposal and must include the following three 
items:
     The Standard Form (SF) 424, ``Application for Federal 
Assistance'' (available at https://www07.grants.gov/agencies/approved_
standard_forms.jsp). The SF-424 must clearly identify the applicant 
and be signed by an individual with authority to enter into a grant 
agreement. Upon confirmation of an award, the individual signing the SF 
424 on behalf of the applicant shall be considered the representative 
of the applicant. On line 12 of the SF 424, applicants must also 
indicate the component (from Part II: Award Information--Section 1--
Award Amount: A. Implementation; B. Training & Outreach; C. Training, 
Outreach & Implementation) for which they are applying for funds under 
this notice. Applicants that fail to indicate the component for which 
they are applying for funds under this notice will be deemed non-
responsive by DOL and the application will not be accepted for award 
consideration.
     Dun and Bradstreet (DUNS) number. All applicants for 
Federal grant and funding opportunities are required to have a DUNS 
number. See OMB Notice of Final Policy Issuance, 68 FR 38402 (June 27, 
2003). Applicants must supply their DUNS number on the SF-424. The DUNS 
number is a nine-digit identification number that uniquely identifies 
business entities. Obtaining a DUNS number is easy and there is no 
charge. To obtain a DUNS number, access this Web site: https://
www.dnb.com/us/ or call 1-866-705-5711.
     The SF-424-A Budget Information Form (available at: http:/
/www07.grants.gov/agencies/approved--standard--forms.jsp). In preparing 
the Budget Information Form, the applicant must provide a concise 
narrative explanation to support the request. The budget narrative 
should break down the budget and leveraged resources by the activities 
specified in the technical proposal. The narrative should also discuss 
precisely how the administrative costs support the project goals.
    Applicants that fail to provide a SF-424, SF-424-A and/or a budget 
narrative will be removed from consideration prior to the technical 
review process. Leveraged resources should not be listed on the SF-424 
or SF-424-A Budget Information Form, but must be described in the 
budget narrative and in Part II of the proposal. The amount of Federal 
funding requested for the entire period of performance must be shown on 
the SF-424 and SF-424-A Budget Information Form. Applicants are also 
encouraged, but not required, to submit OMB control number 1890-0014: 
Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants, which can be found 
at: https://www.doleta.gov/grants/find_grants.cfm.
    B. Part II is the technical proposal. The following information is 
required as part of the technical proposal:
     A table of contents listing the application sections.
     A 2-3 page abstract summarizing the proposed project and 
applicant profile information including: (1) Applicant name; (2) 
project title; (3) overview of strategies; (4) partnership members; and 
(5) requested funding level.
     A timeline outlining project activities.
    The technical proposal of the application demonstrates the 
applicant's capabilities to fulfill the intention of the SGA. The 
Technical Proposal is limited to 10 double-spaced, single-sided, 8.5-
inch-by-11-inch pages with 12-point font and 1-inch margins. Please 
note that the budget, the abstract, and the timeline are not included 
in the 10-page limit (See Below). In addition to the technical 
proposal, the applicant may provide resumes, a staffing pattern, 
statistical information, letters of support, and related materials in 
attachments. The applicant must reference any participating entities in 
the text of the Technical Proposal. Applications that do not meet these 
requirements will not be considered.
    Applications may be submitted electronically on www.grants.gov or 
in hard-copy via U.S. mail, professional delivery service, or hand 
delivery. These processes are described in further detail in Section 
IV(3). Applicants submitting proposals in hard-copy must submit an 
original signed application (including the SF 424) and one (1) ``copy-
ready'' version free of bindings, staples or protruding tabs to ease in 
the reproduction of the proposal by DOL. Applicants submitting 
proposals in hard-copy are also requested, though not required, to 
provide an electronic copy of the proposal on CD-ROM.

3. Submission Dates and Times

    The closing date for receipt of applications under this 
announcement is March 16, 2009. Applications must be received at the 
address below no later than 5 p.m. (Eastern Time). Applications 
submitted electronically through Grants.gov, must be successfully 
submitted at https://www.grants.gov no later than 5:00:00 p.m. (Eastern 
Time) March 16, 2009, and then subsequently validated by Grants.gov. 
The submission and validation process is described in more detail 
below. The process can be complicated and time-consuming. Applicants 
are strongly advised to initiate the process as soon as possible and to 
plan for time to resolve technical problems if necessary.
    Applications sent by e-mail, telegram, or facsimile (fax) will not 
be accepted.
    If an application is submitted by both hard-copy and through 
www.grants.gov a letter must accompany the hard-copy application 
stating why two applications were submitted and the differences between 
the two submissions. If no letter accompanies the hard-copy we will 
review the copy submitted through www.grants.gov. For multiple 
applications submitted through www.grants.gov we will review the latest 
submittal.
    Applications that do not meet the conditions set forth in this 
notice will not be honored. No exceptions to the mailing and delivery 
requirements set forth in this notice will be granted.
    Mail/overnight mail/hand delivery--To apply by mail, please submit 
one (1) blue-ink signed, typewritten original of the application and 
two (2) signed photocopies in one package to the U.S. Department of 
Labor, Employment and Training Administration, Division of

[[Page 2626]]

Federal Assistance, Attention: Mamie Williams, Reference SGA/DFA PY 08-
11, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW., Room N-4716, Washington, DC 20210. 
Information about applying online through www.grants.gov can be found 
in Section IV.B of this document. Applicants are advised that mail 
delivery in the Washington area may be delayed due to mail 
decontamination procedures. Hand delivered proposals will be received 
at the above address.
    Electronic submission_Applicants may apply online through 
Grants.gov (https://www.grants.gov). It is strongly recommended that 
before the applicant begins to write the proposal, applicants should 
immediately initiate and complete the ``Get Registered'' registration 
steps at https://www.grants.gov/applicants/get_registered.jsp. These 
steps may take multiple days or weeks to complete, and this time should 
be factored into plans for electronic submission in order to avoid 
unexpected delays that could result in the rejection of an application. 
It is highly recommended that applicants use the ``Organization 
Registration Checklist'' at https://www.grants.gov/assets/Organization_
Steps_Complete_Registration.pdf to ensure the registration process is 
complete.
    Within two business days of application submission, Grants.gov will 
send the applicant two email messages to provide the status of 
application progress through the system. The first email, almost 
immediate, will confirm receipt of the application by Grants.gov. The 
second email will indicate the application has either been successfully 
validated or has been rejected due to errors. Only applications that 
have been successfully submitted and successfully validated will be 
considered. It is the sole responsibility of the applicant to ensure a 
timely submission, therefore sufficient time should be allotted for 
submission (two business days), and if applicable, subsequent time to 
address errors and receive validation upon resubmission (an additional 
two business days for each ensuing submission). It is important to note 
that if sufficient time is not allotted and a rejection notice is 
received after the due date and time, the application will not be 
considered.
    The components of the application must be saved as either .doc, 
.xls or .pdf files. Documents received in a format other than .doc, 
.xls or .pdf will not be read.
    The Grants.gov helpdesk is available from 7 a.m. (Eastern Time) 
until 9 p.m. (Eastern Time). Applicants should factor the 
unavailability of the Grants.gov helpdesk after 9 p.m. (Eastern Time) 
into plans for submitting an application. Applicants are strongly 
advised to utilize the plethora of tools and documents, including FAQs, 
that are available on the ``Applicant Resources'' page at https://
www.grants.gov/applicants/app_help_reso.jsp#faqs. To receive updated 
information about critical issues, new tips for users and other time 
sensitive updates as information is available, applicants may subscribe 
to ``Grants.gov Updates'' at https://www.grants.gov/applicants/email_
subscription_signup.jsp.
    If applicants encounter a problem with Grants.gov and do not find 
an answer in any of the other resources, call 1-800-518-4726 to speak 
to a Customer Support Representative or email support@grants.gov.
    Late Applications: For applications submitted on Grants.gov, only 
applications that have been successfully submitted no later than 
5:00:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) on the closing date and successfully 
validated will be considered. For applicants not submitting on 
Grants.gov, any application received after the exact date and time 
specified for receipt at the office designated in this notice will not 
be considered, unless it is received before awards are made, was 
properly addressed, and: (a) Was sent by U.S. Postal Service registered 
or certified mail not later than the fifth calendar day before the date 
specified for receipt of applications (e.g., an application required to 
be received by the 20th of the month must be postmarked by the 15th of 
that month) or (b) was sent by professional overnight delivery service 
to the addressee not later than one working day prior to the date 
specified for receipt of applications. ``Postmarked'' means a printed, 
stamped or otherwise placed impression (exclusive of a postage meter 
machine impression) that is readily identifiable, without further 
action, as having been supplied or affixed on the date of mailing by an 
employee of the U.S. Postal Service. Therefore, applicants should 
request the postal clerk to place a legible hand cancellation ``bull's 
eye'' postmark on both the receipt and the package. Failure to adhere 
to the above instructions will be a basis for a determination of non-
responsiveness. Evidence of timely submission by a professional 
overnight delivery service must be demonstrated by equally reliable 
evidence created by the delivery service provider indicating the time 
and place of receipt.

4. Funding Restrictions

    Determinations of allowable costs will be made in accordance with 
the applicable Federal cost principles as indicated in Part VI(2). 
Disallowed costs are those charges to a grant that the grantor agency 
or its representative determines not to be allowed in accordance with 
the applicable Federal cost principles or other conditions contained in 
the grant.

5. Withdrawal of Applications

    Applications may be withdrawn by written notice or telegram 
(including Mailgram) received at any time before an award is made. 
Applications may be withdrawn in person by the applicant or by an 
authorized representative thereof, if the representative's identity is 
made known and the representative signs a receipt for the proposal.

6. Intergovernmental Review

    This funding opportunity is not subject to Executive Order (EO) 
12372, ``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.''

Part V. Application Review Information

1. Evaluation Criteria

    This section identifies and describes the criteria that will be 
used to evaluate the proposals for the Advancing Apprenticeship 
Initiative. The factors on which the proposals will be evaluated are 
delineated in the same order as the criterion is listed under each 
component. The factors follow the evaluation criteria for each 
component.
Implementation
    1. How do you plan to develop new program standards or to revise 
existing standards? Describe the occupation(s) for which you have 
utilized, or will utilize competency-based and/or hybrid (competency/
time-based) models, interim credentials, technology-based learning, or 
other elements of a 21st century Registered Apprenticeship framework. 
(15 points)
    2. How you plan to work with the Registration Agency (OA or the 
recognized SAA) to develop new program standards or revise existing 
standards. What experience have you had working with a Registration 
Agency to develop, revise or implement program standards? (10 points)
    3. How will you develop new or modify training curricula to 
implement the competency-based and hybrid models for apprenticeship? 
(10 points)
    4. How will you measure the development of On-the-Job-Learning 
(OJL) skills? How will you determine the amount of OJL time needed for 
an apprentice to demonstrate competency in particular skills? How will 
you track apprentices' progression through competency-based or hybrid 
model

[[Page 2627]]

apprenticeships? Please describe what tools will be developed and how 
they will be implemented. (10 points)
    5. Describe how you will work with your members and affiliates to 
establish and operate at least four programs, with enrollment of at 
least 25 apprentices, that utilize the competency-based or hybrid model 
and provide for issuance of interim credentials. (10 points)
    6. How many new programs (at least four) will you develop? How will 
you determine the occupations for which you are developing and 
implementing new programs? (10 points)
    7. How will you recruit and train the new apprentices in 
competency-based and hybrid programs (minimum of 25 at each location or 
a total of 100 apprentices)? (10 points)
    8. To what extent will other resources be available to carry out 
activities; and how will these new programs be sustained during and 
beyond the period of performance under the grant? (15 points)
    9. Describe how you will work in partnership with any other 
industry, employer or labor-management organization, the public 
workforce system, or educational institutions. Please describe each 
group's role. (5 points)
    10. Describe how you will use technology-based learning to help 
apprentices learn. (5 points)
    The score for each of the factors delineated under this component 
will be evaluated on:
     The extent to which the applicant describes plans to 
develop training programs that will be targeted for development of 
standards that utilize the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship 
framework. Responses should include information on the studies and 
research used to identify to identify the programs to be developed for 
standard development.
     The extent to which the applicant describes plans to work 
with the registration agency and describes the level of experience the 
applicant has in working with the registration agency to develop, 
revise or implement apprenticeship program standards.
     The extent to which the applicant describes plans to 
develop new, or modify existing, training curricula to establish and 
implement competency-based and hybrid models for apprenticeship. 
Responses should include a detailed explanation of how the curricula to 
be developed will assist users in advancing through apprenticeships 
that utilize competency-based and hybrid models which result in the 
issuance of interim credentials.
     The ability of the applicant to identify what evaluation 
measures and/or tools will be used to determine the amount of On-the-
Job-Learning time needed to demonstrate competency in particular skills 
to track progression of Apprentices through competency-based or hybrid 
model apprenticeships.
     The extent to which the applicant describes plans to 
collaborate with its members and affiliates to establish and operate 
programs that utilize competency-based or hybrid model apprenticeship 
programs. Responses should describe how strategies will be shared with 
members and affiliates and how the strategies support collaborations 
that result in successful development of programs that utilize the 21st 
century Registered Apprenticeship framework.
     The extent to which the applicant can identify and 
describe the new programs (minimum of four) to be developed and 
describe the research and/or studies used or developed to determine the 
occupations it will identify for development and implementation of new 
training programs for apprentices (industry growth statistics, regional 
or local employment growth statistics, applicant experience in a 
specific occupational training, etc).
     How thoroughly the applicant describes the strategies to 
be used to recruit and train new apprentices in competency-based and 
hybrid programs. Responses should include identification and 
explanation of the strategies and how they will lead to the successful 
recruitment and training of apprentices.
     The nature and quality of leveraged resources and the 
extent to which the resources will support grant activities; and the 
extent to which the applicant can identify and describe the strategies 
to be used for sustainment of new programs beyond the period of 
performance of the grant. Responses should provide evidence that key 
partners have expressed a clear commitment to providing resources to 
the project, and an explanation of how the strategies will increase the 
ability of the applicant to continue to successfully sustain the 
program without additional grant funds.
     The extent to which the applicant identifies and describes 
strategies for working with other industry, employer, or labor-
management organizations, the public workforce system, and educational 
institutions to develop, or modify existing programs to develop, revise 
or implement apprenticeship program standards. Responses should 
identify who the applicant plans to partner with, the applicant and 
partner's roles and responsibilities, and how the partnerships will 
lead to the successful development or modification of programs.
     The extent to which the applicant identifies and describes 
what technology-based learning tools will be used to help apprentices 
learn. Responses should describe how the technology-based learning will 
be used to help apprentices learn through the use of competency-based 
and hybrid models that lead to the issuance of interim credentials.
Training and Outreach
    1. Please describe who will you train and/or who will be the focus 
of your outreach. (15 points)
    2. What curriculum and/or tools will be developed and how will they 
be incorporated into your training and/or outreach? (20 points)
    3. Describe strategies for conducting outreach to expand and 
promote implementation of competency-based and hybrid model 
apprenticeship programs, as well as interim credentials by your 
membership and industry. (15 points)
    4. Describe strategies for training your membership and staff on 
the new model. (15 points)
    5. How will this new training framework be sustained? (15 points)
    6. How will you work in partnership with any other industry, 
employer or labor-management organization, the public workforce system, 
or educational institutions and if so, who and how. Please describe 
each group's role. (5 points)
    7. Describe how you will use technology-based learning to prepare 
staff and/or members to develop and implement training programs that 
utilize competency-based and/or hybrid models. (5 points)
    8. How do you plan to evaluate the effectiveness of training and 
outreach efforts to identify whether the activities are successful in 
expanding the use of the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship 
framework (e.g. surveys, member questionnaires, other identifiable 
evaluation factors)? (10 points)
    The score for each of the factors delineated under this component 
will be evaluated on:
     The ability of the applicant to identify who will be 
targeted for training on the 21st Registered Apprenticeship framework 
and/or targeted for outreach to promote the use of the 21st century 
Registered Apprenticeship framework. Responses should describe how 
those targeted for training and outreach will assist in the

[[Page 2628]]

development of programs that utilize the 21st century Registered 
Apprenticeship framework.
     The extent to which the applicant can describe the course 
materials and or learning tools that will be developed and how they 
will be used for training and outreach on the 21st century Registered 
Apprenticeship framework.
     The extent to which the applicant can identify and 
describe the strategies to be used to promote the use of elements of 
the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship framework, specifically the 
use of competency-based models and hybrid models, by applicant members 
and industry partners and/or affiliates. Responses should include an 
explanation of why the outreach strategies will lead to increased use 
of competency-based and hybrid models programs that lead to the 
issuance of interim credentials.
     The extent to which the applicant can identify and 
describe the strategies to be used to train its members and/or staff on 
the elements of the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship model. 
Responses should include explanation of how the strategies will prepare 
applicant's members and/or staff to develop and/or modify programs to 
utilize competency-based and hybrid models that lead to the issuance of 
interim credentials.
     The nature and quality of leveraged resources and the 
extent to which the resources will support grant activities; and the 
extent to which the applicant can identify and describe the strategies 
to be used for sustainment of new programs beyond the period of 
performance of the grant. Responses should provide evidence that key 
partners have expressed a clear commitment to providing resources to 
the project, and an explanation of how the strategies will increase the 
ability of the applicant to continue to successfully sustain the 
program without additional grant funds.
     The extent to which the applicant identifies and describes 
strategies for working with other industry, employer, or labor-
management organizations, the public workforce system, and educational 
institutions to develop, or modify existing training programs to 
prepare its staff and/or members to develop, revise or implement 
apprenticeship program standards that utilize competency-based and 
hybrid models. Responses should identify who the applicant plans to 
partner with, the applicant and partner's roles and responsibilities, 
and how the partnerships will lead to the successful training of staff 
and/or members on the development or modification of programs that 
utilize the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship framework.
     The extent to which the applicant identifies and describes 
what technology-based learning tools will be used to help train its 
members and/or staff to develop, revise or implement apprenticeship 
program standards that utilize competency-based and hybrid models.
     The ability of the applicant to identify what evaluation 
measures and/or tools will be used to determine the effectiveness of 
training and/or outreach to its staff, members and partners on the 
development or modification of apprenticeship programs that utilize 
competency-based or hybrid models.
Implementation, Training and Outreach
    1. How do you plan to develop new program standards or to revise 
existing standards? Describe the occupation(s) for which you have 
utilized, or will utilize competency-based and/or hybrid (competency/
time-based) models, interim credentials, technology-based learning, or 
other elements of a 21st century Registered Apprenticeship framework. 
(10 points)
    2. How you plan to work with the Registration Agency (OA or the 
recognized SAA) to develop new program standards or revise existing 
standards. What experience have you had working with a Registration 
Agency to develop, revise or implement program standards? (10 points)
    3. How will you develop new or modify training curricula to 
implement the competency-based and hybrid models for apprenticeship? 
(10 points)
    4. How will you develop On-the-Job-Learning (OJL) skills 
assessments and how will you track apprentices' progression? Please 
describe what tool/s will be developed and how they will be 
incorporated into the new learning model. (10 points)
    5. How will you recruit and train the new apprentices under the new 
model (minimum of 25 at each location or a total of 100 apprentices)? 
Describe how you will work with your members and affiliates to 
implement the new standards in at least four locations with a minimum 
of 25 apprentices at each site or a grand total of 100 apprentices. (10 
points)
    6. Who will you train and/or will be the focus your outreach and or 
staff training? (5 points)
    7. Please describe what curriculum and/or tool/s will be developed 
and how they will be incorporated into the new learning model. (15 
points)
    8. Describe strategies for conducting outreach to expand and 
promote implementation of the new model to your membership and 
industry. (5 points)
    9. How will this new training framework be sustained? (5 points)
    10. Will you work in partnership with any other industry, employer 
or labor-management organization, the public workforce system, or 
educational institutions and if so, who and how? Please describe each 
group's role. (5 points)
    11. Describe how you will use technology-based learning to help 
apprentices learn. (5 points)
    12. How do you plan to evaluate the effectiveness of training and 
outreach efforts to identify whether the activities are successful in 
expanding the use of the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship 
framework (e.g. surveys, member questionnaire's, other identifiable 
evaluation factors). (10 points)
    The score for each of the factors delineated under this component 
will be evaluated on:
     The extent to which the applicant describes plans to 
develop training programs that will be targeted for development of 
standards that utilize the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship 
framework. Responses should include information on the studies and 
research used to identify the programs to be developed for standard 
development.
     The extent to which the applicant describes plans to work 
with the registration agency and describes the level of experience the 
applicant has in working with the registration agency to develop, 
revise or implement apprenticeship program standards
     The extent to which the applicant describes plans to 
develop new, or modify existing, training curricula to establish and 
implement competency-based and hybrid models for apprenticeship. 
Responses should include a detailed explanation of how the curricula to 
be developed will assist users in advancing through apprenticeships 
that utilize competency-based and hybrid models which result in the 
issuance of interim credentials.
     The ability of the applicant to identify what evaluation 
measures and/or tools will be used to determine the amount of On-the-
Job-Learning time needed to demonstrate competency in particular skills 
to track progression of Apprentices through competency-based or hybrid 
model apprenticeships.
     How thoroughly the applicant describes the strategies to 
be used to work with the applicant's members, affiliates, other 
industries and/or to recruit and train a minimum of 100 new

[[Page 2629]]

apprentices in a minimum of four competency-based and hybrid programs. 
Responses should include identification and explanation of the 
strategies and how they will lead to the successful recruitment and 
training of apprentices.
     The ability of the applicant to identify who will be 
targeted for training on the 21st Registered Apprenticeship framework 
and/or targeted for outreach to promote the use of the 21st century 
Registered Apprenticeship framework. Responses should describe how 
those targeted for training and outreach will assist in the development 
of programs that utilize the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship 
framework.
     The extent to which the applicant can describe the course 
materials and or learning tools that will be developed and how they 
will be used for training and outreach on the 21st century Registered 
Apprenticeship framework.
     The extent to which the applicant can identify and 
describe the strategies to be used to train its members and/or staff on 
the elements of the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship model. 
Responses should include explanation of how the strategies will prepare 
applicant's members and/or staff to develop and/or modify programs to 
utilize competency-based and hybrid models that lead to the issuance of 
interim credentials.
     The nature and quality of leveraged resources and the 
extent to which the resources will support grant activities; and the 
extent to which the applicant can identify and describe the strategies 
to be used for sustainment of new programs beyond the period of 
performance of the grant. Responses should provide evidence that key 
partners have expressed a clear commitment to providing resources to 
the project, and an explanation of how the strategies will increase the 
ability of the applicant to continue to successfully sustain the 
program without additional grant funds.
     The extent to which the applicant identifies and describes 
strategies for working with other industry, employer, or labor-
management organizations, the public workforce system, and educational 
institutions to develop, or modify existing training programs to 
prepare its staff and/or members to develop, revise or implement 
apprenticeship program standards that utilize competency-based and 
hybrid models. Responses should identify who the applicant plans to 
partner with, the applicant and partner's roles and responsibilities, 
and how the partnerships will lead to the successful training of staff 
and/or members on the development or modification of programs that 
utilize the 21st century Registered Apprenticeship framework.
     The extent to which the applicant identifies and describes 
what technology-based learning tools will be used to help apprentices 
learn. Responses should describe how the technology-based learning will 
be used to help apprentices learn through the use of competency-based 
and hybrid models that lead to the issuance of interim credentials.
     The ability of the applicant to identify what evaluation 
measures and/or tools will be used to determine the effectiveness of 
training and/or outreach to its staff, members and partners on the 
development or modification of apprenticeship programs that utilize 
competency-based or hybrid models
Review and Selection Process
    A review panel will carefully evaluate applications against the 
rating criteria described in Part V (1), which are based on the policy 
goals, priorities, and emphases set forth in this SGA. Up to 100 points 
may be awarded to an application, based on the Rating Criteria 
described in Part V(1).
    Proposals will be grouped by the category for which they apply, and 
the proposals within each category will be rated separately. The ranked 
scores will serve as the primary basis for selection of applications 
for funding, in conjunction with other factors such as the availability 
of funds; and proposals that are most advantageous to the government. 
The panel results are advisory in nature and not binding on the grant 
Officer, who may consider any information that comes to his attention 
including information provided by OA; the availability of funds; and 
what is most advantageous to the government, in making award 
determinations. The Government will consider applications with a score 
of 80 or above to be eligible for a grant award. Applicants that score 
less than 80 will not be eligible for a grant award. If no fundable 
proposals are received for a given category, additional awards may be 
made in the other categories. The government reserves the right to 
award grants with or without discussions or negotiations with 
applicants. Should a grant be awarded without negotiations, the award 
will be based on the applicant's signature on the SF-424, which 
constitutes a binding offer.
    The government reserves the right to award grants with or without 
discussions or negotiations with applicants. Should a grant be awarded 
without negotiations, the award will be based on the applicant's 
signature on the SF-424, which constitutes a binding offer.

Part VI. Award Administrative Information

1. Award Notices

    All award not