Labor Education Advancement Program (LEAP) Grant

Award amount

The total available funding for the current grant cycle is up to $1 million. Applicants may apply for up to $100,000.

Grant timeline

• Sept. 30, 2026:  The RFP (application) period opens

• Oct. 7, 2026, at 1 p.m.:  Webinar about the RFP and application process (Register here for the webinar.)

• Oct. 23, 2026, at noon:  Last day to submit questions

• Oct. 30, 2026, at noon, Central Daylight Time:  Applications deadline

• November - December 2026:  Second round grant recipients announced

• January 2027 to June 30, 2028:  Grant period of performance

Objective

LEAP grant funding aims to facilitate the participation and / or retention of individuals facing barriers to employment in registered apprenticeship programs, which may include people of color, Indigenous people, and women.

Eligibility

• Community-based or nonprofit organizations, including 501(c)3 and 501(c)5 organizations. Applicant organizations must be registered with the Secretary of State in Minnesota.

• Minnesota tribal governments as defined in Minnesota Statutes §10.65.

RFP and application materials

• Request for proposals

• Application and workplan

• Budget request form

• Budget template

• Frequently asked questions and answers

Questions?

Contact Lyla Brown, DLI, at lyla.brown@state.mn.us with questions or for technical assistance.

Webinars

One informational webinar is Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026, at 1 p.m. Register here for the webinar.

Other information

• View recipients of previous apprenticeship grants.

• LEAP in Minnesota is referenced under Minnesota Statutes § 178.11 and Minnesota Rules Chapter 5227.

• View additional DLI grant funding opportunities.