The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) have announced the first grant competition under the newly established Postsecondary Education Partnership. This initiative is designed to better align postsecondary education with workforce needs by integrating education and workforce development programs and streamlining grant funding administration.
The competition focuses on supporting programs that increase student access to postsecondary education and training while connecting students with meaningful career pathways.
About the Grant Program
The Postsecondary Education Partnership is a federal collaboration between ED and DOL that consolidates certain postsecondary grant programs to enhance efficiency and improve outcomes.
The program aims to:
-
Strengthen coordination between higher education and workforce systems
-
Support student readiness for postsecondary education and careers
-
Encourage partnerships between educational institutions, training providers, and employers
-
Promote scalable, innovative approaches to increase student success in training and employment
The first competition under this partnership focuses on TRIO Talent Search and related programs that assist students in overcoming barriers to education and career advancement.
Funding Size
-
Funding levels vary based on program guidelines of TRIO Talent Search and related programs
-
Award amounts are determined per competition and specified in the official notice
-
Grant period typically aligns with federal program cycles and requirements
Read Also: Swedish Institute Global Executive Programme 2026 – Apply Now
Who Can Apply
Eligible organisation types
-
Nonprofit organisations
-
Educational institutions
-
Community-based organisations
-
Other entities meeting TRIO program criteria
Eligibility requirements
-
Must meet statutory criteria of the Federal TRIO Programs
-
Must demonstrate capacity to deliver outreach, advising, and support services that promote access to postsecondary education
-
Must submit applications according to federal guidelines
Read Also: UNCF Scholars STEM Program 2026 – Apply Now
Project focus requirements
-
Expand access to postsecondary education opportunities
-
Support student enrollment in education, training, or Registered Apprenticeship pathways
-
Help students overcome barriers to postsecondary success
Geographic eligibility
-
Projects must be carried out in the United States and serve U.S. students and communities
Sector or thematic focus
-
Postsecondary education access and success
-
Coordination of education and workforce development
-
Support services that enhance student readiness for career pathways
-
Programs connecting students with training and employment opportunities
Application Process
-
Review competition notice and eligibility requirements
-
Register and prepare applicant profile on Grants.gov
-
Complete and submit application online through Grants.gov
-
Applications undergo competitive review based on program criteria
Required Materials
-
Completed online application form
-
Program narrative describing planned services and outcomes
-
Budget and budget justification
-
Supporting documentation demonstrating capacity to manage and deliver services
-
Any additional documents required in the competition notice
Key Dates
-
Competition Announcement: March 17, 2026
-
Application Deadline: As specified in the official notice
-
Awards Announced: Following review and evaluation of applications
Selection Notes
-
Competitive federal grant with evaluation based on alignment with program goals, organizational capacity, and potential impact
-
Priority given to applications demonstrating strong outreach strategies and measurable outcomes tied to postsecondary access and workforce integration