Federal Register #2026-14057

BIA IGNITE Grant Program for Tribal Workforce Development in Construction and Emerging Technologies

The Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), Office of Indian Services, Division of Workforce Development is launching the FY 2026 IGNITE (Indigenous Growth in New & Innovative Trade Employment) grant pilot program to support Tribal workforce development. - Government Buyer: - Department of the Interior - Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) - Office of Indian Services, Division of Workforce Development - Purpose: - Fund Tribal workforce development strategies for employment in construction, infrastructure trades, and emerging technology sectors - Sectors include advanced manufacturing, digital fabrication, artificial intelligence, drone and geospatial systems, and STEM-based workforce training - Funding Details: - Approximately 18-22 awards - Individual awards range from $100,000 to $300,000 - One-year period of performance - Services Requested: - Implementation-ready workforce training activities - Certification programs and apprenticeship readiness (e.g., Ironworkers) - Technology-based training and supportive services leading to employment or industry-recognized credentials - Notable Requirements: - Programs must directly lead to employment or credentials - Emphasis on integrating emerging technologies and apprenticeship pathways - Eligible applicants are Federally Recognized Tribes and Tribal organizations - No specific OEMs, vendors, or product part numbers are mentioned, as this is a services-focused grant opportunity

Description

The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), Office of Indian Services (OIS), Division of Workforce Development (DWD), Job Placement and Training announces a discretionary grant pilot program titled "Native American Technology and Manufacturing Grant Pilot Program (IGNITE)". This program supports Tribal workforce development strategies preparing Tribal participants for employment in construction, infrastructure trades, and emerging technology sectors such as advanced manufacturing, digital fabrication, artificial intelligence, drone and geospatial systems, and STEM-based workforce training. Funding will be awarded directly to Tribes and Tribal organizations through 638 contracts or compacts, with awards ranging from $100,000 to $300,000 for a one-year period. Proposals must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time by the deadline indicated in the NOFO and posted on the BIA Workforce Development website.

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