Public Notice
The State Training and Employment Program (STEP)
Request for Grant Applications for State Fiscal Year 2020

The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Division of Employment and Training Services requests grant applications for training projects in priority industries under the State Training and Employment Program (STEP). STEP is funded by a percentage of the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund and is appropriated to the Division by the Alaska State Legislature.

The purpose of STEP is to enhance the quality and accessibility of in-state training and employment services for Alaska residents to help meet the workforce needs of employers in the state. STEP seeks to increase resident employment in industries where a high number of nonresidents are working, reduce future unemployment claims, and foster economic growth in all regions by meeting employer demand for a skilled workforce.

Organizations with training projects that will upgrade the skills of the local workforce with the latest national and state certifications and competencies in demand by employers in the priority industries are encouraged to apply. Training participants must meet the eligibility requirements of STEP.

The attached Request for Grant Applications (RGA) includes additional detailed information regarding this solicitation. 

Two teleconferences will be held to answer questions about the STEP program, this RGA, and the application process. Applications must be entered in the Electronic Grants Administration System (EGrAMS).

The deadline for submission of grant applications is Friday, March 1, 2019 by 5:00 p.m.  Funding of STEP grant awards is limited by the availability of funds each fiscal year and subject to appropriation by the Alaska State Legislature.

Questions about this solicitation should be directed to Julie Frizzell, Program Coordinator, julie.frizzell@alaska.gov or telephone (907) 269-4590.