Located in:
- III. Operational Planning Elements
The Unified or Combined State Plan must include an Operational Planning Elements section that supports the State’s strategy and the system-wide vision described in Section II(c) above. Unless otherwise noted, all Operational Planning Elements apply to Combined State Plan partner programs included in the plan as well as to core programs. This section must include—
- b. State Operating Systems and Policies
The Unified or Combined State Plan must include a description of the State operating systems and policies that will support the implementation of the State strategy described in section II Strategic Elements. This includes—
- 5. Distribution of Funds for Core Programs
Describe the methods and factors the State will use in distributing funds under the core programs in accordance with the provisions authorizing such distributions.
- 5. Distribution of Funds for Core Programs
- b. State Operating Systems and Policies
III. b. 5. B. ii. Describe how the eligible agency will ensure direct and equitable access to all eligible providers to apply and compete for funds and how the eligible agency will ensure that it is using the same grant or contract announcement and application procedure for all eligible providers
Current Narrative:
DWD ensures equitable access to apply for grants or contracts to all eligible providers in Indiana. The processes used for announcing the availability of federal funds under Section 231 is designed in such a way that no distinction is made in the type of eligible provider. Announcements about the grant process are posted to DWD’s website and email notifications are sent to current providers and a mailing list of interested contacts, including entities requesting further information.
Announcements are made about the competitive grant RFA on monthly statewide webinars and posted on DWD’s website for further review. Town hall meetings take place regionally to inform potential applicants of the grant process and timelines. The PowerPoint from town hall meetings is posted along with Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). FAQs ensure that all parties have equitable access to view questions and responses. FAQs are further highlighted in a statewide webinar and posted to DWD’s website.
Within the grant application, eligible agencies must submit metrics regarding their ability to effectively serve the Title II target population. For current Title II providers, this must be WIOA metrics. For eligible providers not currently WIOA Title II providers, metrics must be submitted that align as closely as possible to WIOA performance outcomes. Levels for demonstrated effectiveness are set by Title II staff and are set as a percentage of current performance expectations. The application process used to award funds for comprehensive adult education providers is the same for all eligible applicants.
Non-adult education staff are included in the scoring process as grants are reviewed. Other adult education staff from other states serve as evaluators as well. Workforce Development Boards (WDB) review eligible providers’ application materials to determine whether the applications are consistent with local plans. Upon completing this review, the local WDB submits a recommendation to DWD to promote alignment with the local plan. Prior to awarding of contracts, DWD may require applicants to make revisions to the sub-recipient proposals, including changes that better align services provided by the sub-recipient with local WDBs.
Scores are compiled, reviewed, and funding decisions are made based on (1) The number of WIOA Title II eligible Hoosiers who lack a secondary school diploma (HSD or HSE); (2) The number of Hoosiers using state and federal programs administered by Indiana’s Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA); and (3) The number of enrollments in WIOA Title II programs in the previous year. Funding for future grant continuations is based on program performance.