# Maryland Receives $9 Million Career-System Grant

Maryland announced on September 29, 2026, that it received a three-year, **$9 million** U.S. Department of Education grant to build a statewide career-exploration system for more than 600,000 students in grades 7–12. From October 2026 through September 2029, the initiative will support a state-owned planning and credential platform, data-system integration, and expanded work-based learning; more than half of the funding is expected to flow directly to school districts. No active solicitation or procurement contact is identified, but implementation may create future opportunities for education technology, data-integration, and workforce-learning providers.

- The grant supports a digital platform and related integrations, making relevant capabilities areas of potential future demand for education technology and systems-integration firms.
- Because more than half of the funds are expected to go to school districts, providers may find opportunities at both the state and district levels as implementation proceeds.
- The grant period runs from October 2026 through September 2029. The signal does not identify open solicitations, contract vehicles, or submission deadlines.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Education, Information Technology
**Topics:** Grants & Funding, Digital Infrastructure
**Published:** September 30, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of Education (ED)
- Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE)
- Governor’s Office for Children

### Key Quotes
> This grant allows schools access to state-of-the-art technology that connects students to opportunities in higher education or their desired career field – while expanding our many work-based learning programs – paving pathways to work, wages and wealth for Maryland high schoolers, so they can serve their communities and build a brighter future.
> — Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland

> By modernizing how students plan, track, and showcase their skills, we are strengthening college and career readiness in our state.
> — Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools

### Sources
- [Maryland Awarded $9 Million Federal Grant to Build Student Career Exploration System | The Office of Governor Wes Moore](https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/maryland-awarded-9-million-federal-grant-build-student-career-exploration-system) - MD