Workforce Development - Workforce Development Solicitation for Proposals

Workforce Development Solicitations for Proposals

Workforce Investment Act Funds - Questions and Answers

Questions submitted by parties interested in the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Funds, and the answers to those questions, are listed below. Questions and answers are organized by general topic area and/or category. This Web page will be updated regularly as questions are submitted.

Questions regarding this SFP were accepted through August 31, 2005. We are no longer accepting questions via e-mail. The final questions and answers will be posted by September 7, 2005.

Updated September 7, 2005

20 Percent Match Requirement	Category 1 - Growth Industries	General	Proposal Criteria
Applicant Eligibility	Category 2 - Nurses	Participant Eligibility	Proposal Format
Awards	Category 3 - Barriers	Program	Use of Funds
Cash Match Bonus	Category 4 - Veterans	Project Performance

20 Percent Match Requirement

Q. Are there any restrictions on the types of funding or in-kind resources used to meet the required 20 percent match?

A. No, we are looking for supplemental funds that will support the proposed project. You must clearly identify the cash and in-kind resources that will be used to supplement activities or expand and sustain the proposed project in the Section VI-Resource Utilization.

Q. We request clarification on your answer to Question 3 under "Proposal Criteria." "Category 3 Advancing Workers Instruction", Page 4 indicates that 5 bonus points can be earned if the project can demonstrate a non-WIA cash match equal to or greater than 20 percent of the project. In order to meet the basic required 20 percent cash or in-kind match, do WIA funds/resources qualify? If the basic required 20 percent match includes some non-WIA cash resources (but less than the full 20 percent) is a letter of commitment required?

A. There are two separate match criteria in this SFP.

a) Cash Match Bonus-Projects that can demonstrate a non-WIA cash match that is equal to or greater than 20 percent will be rewarded with bonus points.

b) 20 Percent Match Requirement-A 20 percent match from cash and/or in-kind resources is required. Applicants that do not meet this requirement will lose 5 points from their total score.

To meet the 20 Percent Match Requirement (b), WIA resources may be used. If using non-WIA cash resources to also meet this requirement, a letter of commitment is not required. A letter of commitment is only required to meet the Cash Match Bonus (a).
Q. In reference to Section VI - Resource Utilization, will the Department accept match contributions from participating partners?

A. Yes, match contributions are accepted from participating partners as long as the contribution meets the requirements discussed in the SFP.

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Applicant Eligibility

Q. (a) Can school districts apply? (b) If the school district is part of an existing Workforce Investment Board (WIB), can the school district apply alone?

A. Yes, school districts can apply whether they are part of an existing WIB or not.
Q. Can a county government apply if it represents the Local Workforce Investment Area?

A. Yes, county governments can apply. Proposals will be accepted from public, private non-profit and private for profit organizations. However, the county government may only apply for one proposal. They may not apply on behalf of the Local Workforce Investment Board and also apply on behalf of another county entity.
Q. May a Local Workforce Investment Area (LWIA) submit a proposal in its own name and be a partner with another LWIA that is submitting a proposal in the same category?

A. Yes, as long as the partner agency is not the lead on the application. This applies to all eligible applicants (public, private non-profit, and private for-profit organizations). [Rev. 8/26/05]
~~A. No. It has to be a different category.~~
Q. May a LWIA submit a proposal in its own name and be a partner with another LWIA that is submitting a proposal in a different category?

A. Yes, as long as the partner agency is not the lead on the application. This applies to all eligible applicants (public, private non-profit, and private for-profit organizations).
Q. Can an organization with several locations write a proposal for each location or are we limited to one proposal for the entire organization?

A. A single, incorporated (for-profit, non-profit, or public) entity may only serve in the lead capacity on one application. An organization can be a partner to another single, incorporated entity in the same category or a different category. [Rev. 8/26/05]
A. A single, incorporated (for-profit, non-profit, or public) entity may only serve in the lead capacity on one application. An organization can be a partner to another single, incorporated entity if the applicant is submitting a proposal in a different category.
Q. In your solicitation for proposal, the instructions indicate that only one proposal could be submitted for funding. Please clarify if this means that an applicant could only provide a proposal for one of the four categories.

A. Yes, an applicant can only apply for funding under one of the four categories. [Rev. 8/26/05]
~~A. Yes, an applicant can only apply for funding under one of the four categories, and may only submit one proposal for funding within the selected category.~~
Q. Reference-Page 5, C. Funding Categories states an applicant can submit only one proposal for funding.

(a) Is a LWIA that submits a proposal for its local area in one category prohibited from submitting another proposal, on behalf of a regional consortium in a different category?

(b) Can a regional proposal be submitted under the regional name and not the name of the LWIA that acts as the administrative entity?

A. (a) A single, incorporated entity can only submit one proposal for funding and must choose from one of the funding categories. A single, incorporated entity can be a partner with another entity in either the same category or a different category.

(b) An entity can submit a proposal under the regional name and not the name of the LWIA that acts as the administrative entity only if the regional name is a public, private nonprofit, or a private for-profit organization. [Rev. 8/26/05]
A. (a) Yes, a LWIA that submits a proposal for its local area in one category is prohibited from submitting another proposal on behalf of a regional consortium in a different category.

(b) No, to be eligible to apply you must be a public, private nonprofit, or a private for-profit organization.
Q. Can a school district apply for the funds or does it need to partner with the local WIB?

A. Yes, a school district is eligible to apply for funds as a single entity. However, creating effective partnerships is an essential element of this SFP. There will be a maximum of 15 points awarded under Section V-Local Collaboration.
Q. Can a city government apply as lead?

A. Yes, city governments can apply as the lead agency. However, the city government may only submit one proposal, e.g. It cannot apply on behalf of the Local Workforce Investment Board and also apply on behalf of another city entity.
Q. Likie College is a southern California based vocational school that is targeted at minority population. Are we eligible to receive your job training grant? If we are eligible, do we need to apply for the grant every year or is this an ongoing program? Could you please mail us your program packet/brochure and instructions regarding how to submit the grant proposal?

A. Yes, a college is eligible to apply for funds. Proposals will be accepted from public, private non-profit and private for profit organizations. These funds are not intended to provide for an ongoing program. The State expects the performance period under this solicitation will be between 18 and 24 months. It is the intent of this SFP to fund projects that ensure the non-duplication of services and the sustainability of the proposed activities once funding under this grant ceases. The state is not mailing a program packet/brochure and instructions. Information about submitting a proposal is available in electronic form at www.edd.ca.gov/wiarep/wiaspind.htm.
Q. Can an organization apply as the prime applicant and also as a subrecipient within another agency�s application?

A. Yes, an organization may apply as the prime applicant on only one application and also be a subrecipient within another agency�s application.
Q. Can one organization submit two proposals from two different departments?

A. No, a single, incorporated (for-profit, non-profit, or public) entity may serve in the lead capacity on only one application.
Q. Can a LWIA act as a fiscal agent and handle participant reporting for a community-based organization? If yes, how would the applicant describe their capability to conduct and administer a federally funded project?

A. Yes, a LWIA can be a partner with another organization to act as fiscal agent and perform the participant reporting. The LWIA must be identified in the proposal as a partner. In addition to describing the role of the LWIA in Section V, Local Collaboration, the applicant would describe, under Statement of Capabilities, the specific tasks the LWIA would perform and the arrangements made to perform these tasks. The description must demonstrate how this partnership will provide the applicant capability to conduct and administer a federally funded project.

Q. Can a multi-county LWIA Administrative Agency submit a proposal in it's own name in more than one of the four funding areas? Can a multi-county LWIA Administrative Agency be the lead in more than one partnership project of the four funding areas?

A. No, a LWIA Administrative Agency may submit only one proposal in its own name or as the lead agency in response to this grant solicitation.

Q. Can an agency submit a proposal as a lead and be a part of proposals as a subcontractor? Are agencies allowed to be subcontractors on more than one proposal? Does it make any difference if the proposals are in different categories?

A. Yes, an agency may submit a proposal as a lead and be a part of other proposals as a subcontractor.
Q. We are an educational institution with experience working with LWIAs as a training provider/vendor. Is it more appropriate to apply as a LWIA or as a non-LWIA?

A. LWIAs are designated by the Governor. You may only apply as a LWIA if you have been designated as such. You must apply based on the type of organization you represent.
Q. We are a multi-County LWIA. The LWIA Administrative Entity has chosen not to submit a proposal in any of the four categories. However, the LWIA will offer support if any of the partners wish to be the Lead Agency in one of the four categories. In fact, the LWIA wishes to require that any submittal from this Area will have any funded monies come to the LWIA Administrative Entity, who will then distribute the monies to the various partners for their stated roles in the Grant. If this is the case, who submits and signs the Cover/Signature Page? Is it the Lead Agency who will conduct the main program activities, or the LWIA Administrative Entity who will receive the monies?

A. The SFP defines eligible applicants as public, private non-profit and private for profit organizations. If your organization meets this definition you may submit only one proposal as a lead agency. If funding is awarded, the applicant will receive the funds.
Q. LIFETIME's PEER program provides workshops and one-on-one advocacy and support services regarding education and training options under California's welfare system, also known as CalWORKs. This includes job readiness information and case management to parents who receive CalWORKs to obtain training or post-secondary education degrees to exit poverty. Based on your guidelines, our program seems to fit under funding Categories 1 (Growth Industries-High Wage, High Skill Job Training) and 3 (Advancing Workers with Barriers to Employment). For funding under Category 1, are candidates required to be a job-training provider?

A. Eligible applicants include public, private non-profit and private for-profit organizations. There is no requirement to be a job-training provider.

Note: After consultation with various entities the above answers have been revised. The new answers take precedence over the original answers.

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Awards

Q. During the last grant cycle for which data is available, how many applications were received, and of those received, how many were funded? If such data is unavailable, an estimate of what percentage of applications will be funded would be most helpful.

A. There were 173 proposals received in the last solicitation and, of those, 31 received funding.

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Cash Match Bonus

Q. What is the definition of Cash Match for the WIA Solicitation for Proposals? Please provide examples.

A. For purposes of this SFP, cash match is a non-WIA contribution of money made available to the applicant (organization applying for funds) and documented by a letter of commitment. These funds must be used to support activities or expand and sustain the proposed project. A contribution of money available to the applicant implies that the applicant has control and disburses the funds. Examples include: non-WIA money received from employers, foundations, community colleges, local governments, etc.
Q. In terms of the match requirements for points, what is required in the proposal to show proof of this?

A. Section VI of the Proposal Package Instructions states the following: "Up to 5 bonus points will be available if the applicant demonstrates a cash match from non-WIA fund source equivalent to 20 percent of the project. A letter of commitment must verify the cash match and be included as an attachment to the proposal. Using only the providers from the Resource Utilization Chart that will qualify for the cash match, complete the Cash Match Chart. Enter the provider, fund source, and amount that will be used as cash match to benefit this proposal."
Q. As the cash match bonus requirement, can we utilize the values of the office space as in-kind cash match?

A. Cash match bonus is not a requirement of the SFP. Up to 10 bonus points will be available if an applicant demonstrates a cash match from a non-WIA funds source. In-kind contributions will not be considered cash match. See Question 1 under Cash Match Bonus.

Note: There is a requirement for a 20 percent match from in-kind and/or cash resources. If this requirement is not met, 5 points will be deducted from the total score. In-kind contributions of office space would count toward this requirement.
Q. Part of our non-federal cash match will come from our organization's general fund, which is donated by individuals in response to our ongoing fundraising. Is a letter from our Executive Director sufficient to verify this cash match for purposes of the bonus points? If not, what would be acceptable to verify this portion of our non-federal cash match?

A. Yes, for purposes of this SFP, documentation of the cash match for bonus points must be verified by someone who has financial authority over the funds to be used in the grant.
Q. Are cash matches above and beyond the requested funding or do cash matches reduce the requested funding? Example: if there is a 24 percent cash match available, is the overall funding reduced by 2 percent each month? How is the cash match calculated: monthly, quarterly, annually?

A. Cash match is intended to provide supplemental funds to support the proposed project. These funds are above and beyond the requested funding, but when combined with the WIA funds requested, will result in reducing the overall costs per participant.

Q. On page 9; Section 5, Item B "Other Requirements" there is a 5-point deduction for not having a match from in-kind and/or cash. However, on page11 Section 6, Item A Bonus points will be awarded for "Cash Match" of 20-32 percent and over 32 percent. My question is concerning the bonus, is it only "cash" or can "in-kind" apply here as well?

A. Bonus points are awarded for non-WIA cash match that is equal to or greater than 20 percent, not for in-kind resources.

Q. Can you tell me what you consider cash match? Would salaries and benefits from the applicant and the partners be considered cash match?

A. Please see Cash Match Bonus Q & A #1 for the definition of cash match. Salaries and benefits from the applicant and the partners are normally considered in-kind contributions.
Q. May unrestricted funds generated through contracts be used for cash matches? Would a letter of commitment from the Board of Directors demonstrate the availability of funds to meet the cash match?

A. Please see the definition of cash match in Q & A # 1 under Cash Match Bonus. If the "unrestricted funds" meets the SFP definition of cash match, they may be used. A letter of commitment from the Board of Directors would document the cash match.
Q. What constitutes the "cash match" and "in-kind resources"? Can you provide some examples of possible sources? Must "cash match" come from an outside source?

A. Cash Match is defined in Question 1 under Cash Match Bonus and examples are provided. Cash match may be from external or internal sources. In-kind resources are non-cash resources such as donated personnel, services, or use of equipment or space.
Q. The Q & A regarding the cash match question states that the "applicant has control and disburses the funds" to qualify for cash match. Please clarify. For example, if partners such as community colleges or local governments contribute funds to a project for training or supportive services, but the dollars are distributed by the contributing organization, does this not qualify as cash match? Another example, if an employer is offering mentoring by an employee, is that employee's time considered cash match?

A. The illustrations used in your question above are examples of in-kind contributions.
Q. If a proposer provides a 20 percent cash match; plus a 10 percent WIA in-kind match; plus a 5 percent in-kind match from other agencies/sources, how many bonus points would be received for the proposal?

A. If a letter of commitment is provided for the 20 percent cash match, you will receive 5 bonus points. The in-kind match is not used for bonus points. See Question number 2 under 20 Percent Match Requirements.

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Category 1 - Growth Industries

Q. Under the High Wage Growth Category, the maximum award is $600,000. Is this for the project term even if the project is 24 months or can it be $600,000 per year for two years?

A. The $600,000 maximum award is for the entire length of the project up to the maximum twenty-four month grant period.
Q. In the first section under High Wage Skill category, we are asked to describe the workforce and economic conditions in the area. Do we describe the San Diego Business Economy or Economic Conditions that affect the target population?

A. Section I of the narrative, Statement of Need, asks for a description of the geographical area the project will target and, within that area, for a description of the workforce and economic conditions. Relevant conditions may include both the business economy and the economic conditions that affect the target population.

Q. Please define high skill/high wage jobs. What is considered a "high-wage" job?

A. The State has not defined "high skill/high wage" jobs. It is up to the applicant to define these for the targeted industry. The applicant must demonstrate in the narrative the occupational skill sets needed by the targeted high growth industry and include information on why these skill sets are considered high skills for the area. The applicant must also provide the range of wages individuals are expected to receive and using labor market information, demonstrate why these wages are considered high wages for the area.
Q. This question is for Category 1 - Growth. Does the proposal have to be participant driven or could we propose a different strategy? Our proposal would focus on a statewide or regional education campaign. Our performance data would be focused on census data.

A. In order to respond competitively to the SFP, the proposal should be participant driven. The SFP purpose is to provide a maximum return on investment both in assisting job seekers to enter employment and to retrain existing workers in high-need and high wage sectors of the economy.

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Category 2 - Nurses

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Category 3 - Barriers

Q. What do you consider are some of the barriers to employment that would impede a worker from advancing in his/her field?

A. In the Proposal Package Instructions for Category 3, Advancing Workers with Barriers to Employment it states, "Projects in this category will provide customized services and training to prepare special needs populations such as people with disabilities, youth, welfare recipients and people lacking workplace literacy skills for entry-level jobs and/or upgrade skill levels for demand occupations."

Q. I work with a non-profit organization, Pivotal Point Youth Services and we will be applying for the Advancing Employees with Barriers to Employment category. One of the major barriers to employment for high-risk youth is lack of supportive services such as childcare, housing and transportation. Are subsidies for these supportive services accepted as WIA Allowable Activities?

A. Supportive services for youth, as defined in WIA Section 101(46), and further defined in the WIA Final Rules (20 CFR Part 652 et al), Section 664.440, may include assistance with childcare and dependent care, housing, and transportation. In general such services are allowable under WIA when they are necessary to enable the individual to participate in WIA Title I activities and the services are not otherwise available from other sources.
Q. What range, if any, does EDD have in mind for the number of clients to be served by each project in the Barriers category? What range, if any, does EDD have in mind for the average cost per client to be served in the Barriers category?

A. The State has not prescribed a specific number of clients nor an average cost per client. Those numbers will vary based on the type of project proposed.
Q. Would inmates being released from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation be a suitable target population for Category 3 - Individuals with Special Needs/Barriers?

A. As stated earlier, the State has not defined "significant barriers", however, inmates being released from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation could be an example of a barrier to employment.
Q. In a Category 4 Q&A you stated a criminal history as a "significant barrier" for veterans. Does that same example apply to Category 3 when defining "barriers"?

A. The State has not defined "significant barriers" for Category 3 or 4. The examples given in Category 4-Veterans, Question 1, may also apply to Category 3-Barriers. In the proposal, the applicant must fully describe the target population that will be served including the barriers.
Q. We are planning to apply for the Advancing Employees with Barriers to Employment category. Are supportive services such as childcare, clothing, housing, and transportation allowable for adult participants?

A. "Supportive services" as defined in the WIA Final Rules (20 CFR Part 652 et al), Section 663.800, may include assistance such as childcare, clothing, housing, and transportation. In general such services are allowable under WIA when they are necessary to enable the individual to participate in WIA Title I activities and the services are not otherwise available from other sources.
Q. On page 5 of 25 in Category 3, you use the term "customized services." Does this preclude a standard training program with group instruction and a standard curriculum, assuming that certain parts of the program are customized to the needs of the individual students? In other words, can participants receive group instruction based on a pre-determined curriculum and lesson plan (with follow-up individualized to specific student needs)?

A. The SFP does not preclude a standard training program with group instruction and a standard curriculum. Given the special needs of the target population, the applicant must demonstrate how the planned services will address the barriers and transition them into employment or help them attain ongoing career advancement.
Q. Under Applicant eligibility, can incarcerated persons or persons who are in an alternative sentencing status, be considered appropriate participants under the Barriers category?

A. Yes, incarcerated persons are considered having a barrier to employment and are eligible under this category.

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Category 4 - Veterans

Q. What are considered "significant barriers" inhibiting veterans from obtaining meaningful employment?

A. The State has not defined "significant barriers." Examples, may include: disabilities, drug and/or alcohol abuse, little or no work history, criminal records, mental illness, chronic health problems, low basic skills/no high school diploma or GED, learning disabilities, or limited English proficiency.

Q. We notice that VEAP is included as one of the four funding categories. Current VEAP funding runs through 6/06, while this SFP may cover funding through 12/07. Is this SFP intended to cover Program Year (PY) 06-07 VEAP funding, or will a separate solicitation be issued for VEAP?

A. Yes, this SFP is intended to cover PY 06-07 VEAP funding. The annual VEAP SFP and the Governor's 15 Percent Discretionary SFP have been combined into one grant solicitation.
Q. Section 1, Item G-Priority of Service to Providers-This section states the project must be conducted in accordance with Veterans' Priority Provisions, PL 107-288, etc. Does this requirement pertain to all Categories or just to Category 4 Veterans Employment-Related Assistance Program (VEAP)?

A. PL 107-288 applies to all categories.

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General

Q. (a) Has a rubric been developed to score proposals? (b) Can this rubric be shared?

A. The rubric is a tool that is used to score each proposal individually based on the scoring criteria outlined in the SFP. Yes, a rubric has been developed to evaluate and score proposals and no, it cannot be shared.
Q. I have been trying to find an entity to help fund my business of Medical billing and job placement to Medical facilities and private practices that are in need of skilled medical billers. Currently I've been doing medical billing for several doctor offices throughout Northern California. I am in need of training new medical billers (on the job training) and hiring fresh out of school medical billers to place into Medical provider offices and to obtain an office for Medical providers to send their billing. I would like to know who would be able to help me with the application and proposal for this grant?

A. The State cannot provide recommendations or endorsements of professional grant writers.
Q. Can you tell me what grant programs you have that are WIA 15 percent funds?

A. An award list and project summary of current WIA 15 percent-funded projects can be found at: www.edd.ca.gov/wiarep/wiaspind.htm.

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Participant Eligibility

Q. Please define "Older youth" and "Younger youth."

A. Older youth are from 19-21 years old at the time of enrollment. Younger youth are from 14-18 years old at the time of enrollment.

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Program

Q. Historically, Governor's projects under the 15 percent funding do not require core and intensive as part of the activities provided under 15 percent funding. Is this still the case?

A. Yes, the WIA 15 Percent Project Requirements are contained in WIA Directive WIAD02-14.
Q. Our proposal will provide information and services to agencies that provide direct services to participants. Some of these agencies receive WIA funding and others do not. They include high school career technical programs, ROC/Ps, community colleges, community based organizations and local WIBs. These agencies will not be receiving funding under our proposals nor will their funding be considered as part of our project budget. What types of information, if any, do we need to provide about their participants?

A. Information is required only on participants enrolled in the proposed grant.
Q. Can the funds be used to expand on existing programs? For example, we received CalWorks funding to provide training and soft skills related to employment, could the funds be used to add on to the above and take it a step further? Conversely, we currently teach office skills, could we add on to it (i.e. office manager, legal secretary, bookkeeper, etc.) to create a more specialized (and employable) work force? Or, does an entirely new and different program need to be created?

A. Proposals may focus on expanding existing programs.

Q. Do all participants require formal enrollment into WIA?

A. Individuals who are primarily seeking information and do not require direct one-on-one staff assistance, do not need to be enrolled. However, when a participant receives services such as staff assisted job search, comprehensive & specialized assessment and training, they must be determined eligible for WIA and enrolled. See Chapter 2 of the WIA Job Training Automation System Client Forms Handbook for more information.

Q. What do you mean by "service process"? Does "service process" include training activities?

A. The service process is the flow of services and training that will be provided to participants. This process begins with outreach and recruitment and demonstrates the various steps that will be used to achieve the project goals and objectives.
Q. Does this WIA grant program support the further development and refinement of a project's delivery model for the first six months of the grant or must the project be ready to deliver services and training when grant funds are awarded?

A. Project should be fully developed when submitted and ready to begin as soon as possible after the award announcement. The project performance period is limited to 18 to 24 months and project goals and objectives should be achieved within that time.
Q. If we are proposing a training program as part of the proposal, is there a limitation to the length of the training (i.e., no longer than 6 months)? If there is a training element, is there a concurrent work requirement? If so, how many hours?

A. The State has not prescribed the length of a training program. However, the project performance period is limited to 18 to 24 months in which all project goals must be completed. There is not a concurrent work requirement with a training program.
Q. In Section IV - Goals and Objectives, the Return on Investment Matrix chart, Part 1 - Participant Information: A. Total planned enrollments and D. Total planned trainees. What do you consider the difference between "enrollments" and "trainees"? Do the two terms not mean the same thing? The same question can be applied to Part 2 - Cost Information: A. Cost per participant and D. Cost per trainee. What is the difference between "participant" and "trainee"? Please clarify.

A. A participant is an individual who has been determined eligible and is enrolled and receiving any services under the program. A trainee is a participant who is receiving training services. All participants who are enrolled do not necessarily receive training services. Please see Appendix A for a list of allowable services.
Q. The grant instructions say that implementation of the grant program can start as early as December 2005. When is the latest it can start?

A. Projects should be fully developed when submitted and ready to begin as soon as possible after the award announcement.
Q. Because our proposal will focus on Web development training, we can hit many parts of the state simultaneously by using online classes for some of the training. Is this allowed? Can we conduct face-to-face training in more than one city or community?

A. Yes, you may use on-line classes to provide training. If your proposal will serve more than one city or community, you will need to describe the geographic areas the project will target and the economic and workforce conditions in the areas.
Q. What is meant by "cooperative education programs"? Can you provide an example of what a cooperative education program might look like?

A. Generally, a cooperative education program integrates classroom studies with paid, productive, real-life work experience in a related field.

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Project Performance

Q. Section IV-Goals and Objectives - Matrix Form, Under Performance Goals: Four categories of job seekers are listed: adults, dislocated, younger and older youth. Is the proposal required to address all four categories or can the provider focus service on one or two categories?

A. The Performance Goals Matrix should be completed for the target population that the proposal will serve. For example, if the proposal will target only adults, then only the column titled "Planned Adult Goals" would be completed.

Q. Can you clarify the definition of each target population, older and younger youth, dislocated workers, and adults?

A. For purposes of completing the Performance Goals Matrix in Section IV of the narrative, the definition of the target population categories are listed below. However, in Section II of the narrative, Target Group, the proposed target group must be described in further detail.
Q. "State Performance Goals" has listed Performance Goals in other than alphabetical order. Does this mean that "Enter Employment Rate" will be ranked more heavily than, say, "Skill Attainment Rate"?

A. No, the order in which the Performance Goals are listed will not be weighted or used to rank scores.
Q. Do you have a particular definition or suggested indicators of "Skill Attainment Rate"?

A. Skill Attainment Rate is a performance goal only for Planned Younger Youth. It involves all of the youth assessed to be in need of basic skills, work readiness skills and/or occupational skills. For a detailed explanation of how this performance goal is calculated, please see Department of Labor's Training and Employment Guidance Letter 7-99 dated March 2, 2000.

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Proposal Criteria

Q. Can a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with a Local Workforce Investment Area be used instead of SFP Form 3, Roles and Responsibilities?

A. No, SFP Form 3 cannot be substituted with an MOU. Form 3 must be completed. All forms are to be completed as defined in the SFP and the Instructions.
Q. Form 7 lists periods of six months (March 06 - Sept. 06). Does this mean that reporting for this grant will be in six-months increments? Also, an 18-month project starting January 1, 2006, would end June 30, 2007, which is not included in the form.

A. This form has been revised. The new version is now available on-line. The new form is in regular quarterly increments. It is formatted to provide information from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2007 (2 years). If you plan to conduct an 18-month program, you only provide information through the June 2007 quarter. The revised form is available in Information Bulletin WIAB05-18.
Q. I am the owner of an employment agency based in Southern California. I want to inquire if the Workforce Investment Act would allow our company to grow and put more Californians to work? What are the proposal requirements?

A. Yes, an employment agency can apply. Proposals will be accepted from public, private non-profit and private for profit organizations. The allowable uses of these funds are described in Section 1, D. Allowable Uses of Funds of the SFP. Administrative Requirements are described in Section 8 of the SFP.
Q. On page 5 of 25, under Category 3, the document says "Projects ...will provide customized services and training to prepare special needs populations..." In this context does the term "Customized" refer to WIA's definition of customized training projects for employers, or is it just referring to services that are customized to the needs of each individual participant?

A. This refers to services customized to the individual needs of each individual participant.
Q. The narrative forms all have questions asking that non-LWIAs describe how they have established linkages with LWIAs and what roles and responsibilities LWIAs will perform in this proposal. Must LWIAs submit any documentation indicating that their grant was developed in collaboration with them or that they have agreed to accept the role that the applicant is proposing for them?

A. No, unless a non-LWIA is applying for Category 4 Veterans Employment-Related Assistance Program 25 percent funds, then a letter of support is required from the LWIA.
Q. This is a question regarding Section V - Local Collaboration. Must the organization have linkages with LWIA established or the collaboration can be worked out after the proposal is approved? Also, if we do have working relationship with an LWIA, do we need to have any kind of Letter of Commitment from them for this proposal?

A. In order to receive the maximum points available under this section, non LWIA applicants must describe how they have successfully established linkages with the LWIA and what actions they have taken to partner with the LWIA. A letter of commitment from the LWIA is not required.
Q. Is there a specific format for the Service Process flowchart requested in Section III? Is this intended to be a conceptual representation of the process by which we deliver service (e.g. block diagrams and arrows etc.) or do you expect something more akin to a workplan with goals, objectives, timeline, etc.

A. The service process flowchart is intended to be a representation of the process you will use to deliver services by using the traditional flowchart process with block diagrams, arrows, etc.
Q. Other than cash match verification letters, may we submit letters of commitment (e.g. from employers committing to hire workers and/or from government agencies or CBOs that will be referred targeted populations to the program)?

A. No, we are requesting that you attach only letters of commitment for cash match bonus points.
Q. What is the expected number of participants that the project should serve over a 24-month grant period?

A. The State has not prescribed a specific number of participants that should be served over a 24-month grant period. That number will vary based on the type of project proposed, the needs of the target population, and the other resources available.
Q. How will you verify that LWIAs have agreed to the roles and responsibilities assigned to them by non-LWIA applicants?

A. In the final consideration process, roles and responsibilities of partners may be verified by on-site visits or telephone calls as needed.
Q. (a) Regarding the Workforce Investment Act Funds SFP, are other letters of support in addition to the cash support letters allowed in the proposal?

(b) Question regarding appendices - will they be read? Are they acceptable? What cannot go into an appendix?

A. We are requesting that you attach only letters of commitment for cash match bonus points and, if applicable, copies of nonprofit certification [501 (c) (3)] from the federal Internal Revenue Service and [23701 (d)] from the California Franchise Tax Board. Other documents attached will not be reviewed.
Q. Is collaboration with a LWIA mandatory?

A. To receive the maximum points available under Section V - Local Collaboration, non-LWIA applicants must describe the linkages established with the LWIA and what actions have been taken to partner with the LWIA. While collaboration with a LWIA is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended.
Q. Does the State have any cost per participants, or cost per employed goals that they are considering for these monies?

A. The State has not prescribed a specific cost per participant or cost per employed goals. Those numbers will vary based on the type of the project proposed.
Q. On page 11 of your Solicitation for Proposals, you state: Awardees are advised to consider whether official action by a County Board of Supervisors, City Council, or other, similar decision-making body will be necessary before agreeing to accept funds awarded under this SFP. The time needed for such official action will affect the awardees ability to meet the earliest project start date of December 1. Lifetime is not sure if Oakland requires this. How can we find out if this is the case?

A. If you are submitting a proposal as a non-profit organization, you must follow your organization's procedures for entering into a contract for funding. It may not be necessary to obtain County Board of Supervisors or City Council action; it depends on your organization's procedures.
Q. On page 10 of the WIA SFP document, # 7 refers to letters of commitment for cash match bonus points. Is this implying that other letters of commitment (ie: from collaborative partners who may not be providing cash match) are not to be included? Are there any other details you can provide about what are allowable additional attachments to the proposal.

A. We are requesting that you attach only letters of commitment for cash match bonus points and if applicable, copies of non-profit certification [501 (c) (3)] from the federal Internal Revenue Service and [23701 (d)] from the California Franchise Tax Board. Other documents attached will not be reviewed.
Q. Under the criterion matrix narrative Section VII Capabilities, would a proposal that uses the LWIA Administrative Entity in the role of Fiscal Agent to track expenditures and/or perform the participant MIS JTA function receive the maximum points? In this case the LWIA Agency would be performing a support role to the lead partner agency under a subcontract.

A. Under Section VII Capabilities, the applicant must describe its capability to administer a federally funded project. Points will be awarded based on how the applicant has demonstrated this capability.
Q. Of the services listed (core, intensive and training services), how many do you expect an agency to provide in each category?

A. The State has not prescribed specific services to be provided. Services provided will depend on the type of project proposed.

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Proposal Format

Q. My question is regarding the Proposal Narrative Form itself. I am having difficulty using it. When I type into it, the margins vary and keep moving as I insert or delete text. I am unable to insert any tables or charts that make my points more succinctly, not to mention make easier viewing for those who review and score the actual proposal. Too, I am unable to insert footnotes that lend credibility to my stats.

A. The Proposal Narrative and other required forms available in Microsoft Word have been set up as a protected on-line form so that users can easily tab through the document to enter information and check boxes. To have more edit capabilities for inserting tables or formatting, the document must be unprotected. To un-protect this document in Microsoft Word, select the Tools menu and click "Unprotect Document". Please use caution when un-protecting this document as the application must be submitted in the format described in the Minimum Requirement in the SFP. Proposals that do not adhere to this format will not be scored or considered for funding. (Refer to the SFP, Section 5A, Minimum Requirements, p. 9)
Q. The narrative form does not lend itself for inserting tables and other charts. The instructions also take space that could be used for our responses. So, can we use an unprotected blank word template instead of the protected format?

A. Section 5A of the SFP (Minimum Requirements), states that �applicants must use the specific category instructions and forms available." Therefore, the instructions on the narrative forms may not be removed. See Question #1 under Proposal Format for information on how to un-protect the documents for inserting tables and charts.
Q. I have the acrobat document, but I am having problems pulling up the referenced forms. Is there a direct link where I might find the necessary forms for the Workforce Investment Act Funds Solicitation for Proposal?

A. The forms are Microsoft Word and Excel documents. They may be downloaded from the following Web page: www.edd.ca.gov/wiarep/wiaspcategory.htm.
Q. Regarding the Expenditure and Participant Plan, we are supposed to enter the cumulative planned expenditures for each period ending date. Does this mean that totals will include the amounts from the previous period end dates, with exception of the initial end date of March 2006?

A. Yes, the Expenditure and Participant Plan forms are to be filled out cumulative. For example, if you plan to spend $10,000 in the first quarter and plan to spend another $10,000 in the second quarter, your total for the second quarter will be $20,000.

Q. (a) The SFP requires we use the narrative form (Word document) includes protected text fields. May be "unprotect" the document and delete the text fields so we can include text boxes within our narrative?

(b) The required Proposal narrative form does not allow for the insertion of tables using the Microsoft Word table function. How should we handle presentation of numerical information that supports our case (e.g. local employment data), which we feel is most clearly presented in tabular form? The narrative form also does not allow for footnotes, how should we cite references that support our case?

A. See Question #1 Proposal Format, for information on how to un-protect the documents for inserting tables and charts. Section 5A of the SFP states that "applicants must use the specific category instructions and forms available." Therefore you may not delete any of the text fields in the document. Un-protecting the document is only to allow for inserting tables, charts, footnotes or other text.

Q. Since text and data cannot be entered on forms and then printed, are computer-generated forms that are designed the same, acceptable?

A. No, the minimum requirements state that applicants must use the specific category instructions and forms available on the Internet. Proposals that do not adhere to this format will not be scored or considered for funding. To have more edit capabilities for inserting tables or formatting, the documents must be unprotected. See Question and Answer #1 under Proposal Format for further instructions.

Q. Each section of the narrative format has a heading and description. Must the description be included when the response is written or is the Section Number and Title sufficient?

A. The narrative format cannot be changed. The description must be included with the response.

Q. Does the 20-page narrative maximum include the required forms or are they in addition to the 20 pages of narrative material?

A. The required forms (SFP Form 1 through 8) are in addition to the 20 pages of narrative material. The charts that are included in the narrative sections are part of the 20-page limit.

Q. In the Category 2 application, Form 3 - Partner Roles and Responsibilities, is required. Is that form all that is necessary, or must such partnerships be further defined by letters of support, MOU's, etc.?

A. The SFP, Section V - Local Collaboration, asks for a description of each partner's roles and responsibilities. You are not required to attach letters of support or MOUs.

Q. Category 2, Section IV shows a ROI (Return on Investment) Matrix. Are planned enrollments only those addressed in this project or those of the entire nursing program offered by the institution? Same question as applied to "entered employments" and "trainees." Does Part 2 of the above ROI Matrix apply just to the participants under this project?

A. For purposes of the ROI Matrix, planned enrollments, entered employments and trainees are those who will be served in the proposed project.

Q. In the Performance Goals Matrix several areas are blacked out. Does that mean that those areas do not apply to this project?

A. The performance goals blacked out on the Performance Goals Matrix are not applicable for the target group. For example, skill attainment rate is only applicable for Younger Youth.

Q. Is Form 7, the Expenditure and Participant Plan a reporting document or a projection to be included in the proposal?

A. Form 7 is a planning document rather than a reporting document. It is used to provide the planned expenditures and participants served on a quarterly basis. The Form 7 is to be included in the proposal package as a required document.

Q. Can costs of training programs be included in the budget?

A. Yes, training costs are an allowable WIA activity when provided to eligible WIA participants. See Appendix A, WIA Allowable Activities for further information on training.

Q. There is a contradiction as to where the forms/charts are to be inserted. The Proposal Checklist on page 10 shows the forms/charts as item 4 as their own entity to be included in a particular order. However, the narrative says to attach various form/charts within the relative narrative sections. Which is correct? Are the forms/charts included as part of the 20-page narrative limit? Is the proposal to be single or double-spaced? If we are using our own charts to identify occupations and wages, etc., must the font also be 12 point on the charts?

A. The SFP forms listed in Section D, item 4. (SFP Forms 1 through 8) are required to be completed and attached to the proposal. The proposal package instructions include guidelines for completing the forms, but they are not to be included as part of the narrative. Therefore, these forms are not part of the 20-page limit for narrative. The Proposal Narrative Form contains several imbedded charts, such as the Return on Investment Matrix, which are included in the 20-page limitation.

The narrative may be single or double-spaced as long as the narrative is no longer than 20 pages. The narrative must be in a font no less than 12 points. Any charts added to the narrative are considered to be part of the narrative and are subject to the 12-point font requirement and 20-page limitation.

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Use of Funds

Q. Are all salaries included in the allowable 10 percent administrative costs? Or are all salaries outside these costs charged to another category in the proposal-if so what percentage is allowed for salaries?

A. Administrative costs are defined in Appendix B of the SFP. Salaries associated with these functions are to be charged to the administrative cost category and limited to ten percent of the total funds awarded under the grant. Salaries associated with program expenses are not subject to a maximum percentage of the grant.
Q. My question on the SFP is related to Appendix A - WIA allowable Activities. The activities detailed in Appendix A, Core Services, Intensive Services and Training Services, are those the only activities that will be funded under this SFP? Or is that just a suggested list to give potential bidders an idea/guidelines?

A. The use of funds awarded in the SFP is governed by the WIA and its associated federal regulations, State and Federal directives, and federal Office of Management and Budget circulars. Appendices A and B describe the general requirements pertaining to these funds.
Q. Administrative costs: Appendix B says the maximum is 10 percent for funds awarded under this contract. The SFP says the 10 percent is applied to the total project budget. If the project budget includes non-WIA funds can any excess be covered by those funds?

A. Yes, the 10 percent administrative cost limit applies only to WIA funds under this grant.
Q. Many State and Federal projects do not allow indirect costs to be charged by school districts. Is that the case with this project? If no, are indirect costs allowed in addition to, or as a part of, the 10 percent allowable administration rate?

A. Indirect costs are allowable under this grant if the cost rate has been approved by the applicable federal cognizant agency. Generally, the indirect cost rate charges are included in the 10 percent Administrative Cost limit.

Q. We are planning to do some education and detailed follow-up training to help at-risk youth with conflict resolution, anger management, goal-setting, career building, communication, team-building, etc. In preparation for our submission we would like to ask some questions pertaining to potential salaries for the various components of our grant. Specifically, what would be the salary range for someone providing the following: Full-time Administrator, Full-time Trainer, and a Part-time Case manager. Our research has given us some numbers and would like to know if they fit into the WIA Structure range.

A. The State does not set salary ranges for staff being paid from WIA funds. Salaries are set by the program operators.

Q. Can a multi-county LWIA Administrative Agency require that all submitted/funded projects in its area make provision for some funding of the anticipated use of the One-Stop System?

A. No, this agency cannot require entities to provide funding for One-Stop System usage at the local level as a condition for submitting a proposal for consideration by the State.

Q. On the Budget Summary Plan, Item K - Participant Wages and Fringe Benefits, does this item relate to funds budgeted for Work Experience.

A. Yes, Item K on the Budget Summary Plan (SFP Form 4) is where you record any funds budgeted for Work Experience. See Title 20 Code of Federal Regulations Section 663.200 (b) for more information on work experience.

Q. What is the maximum allowable indirect cost we can request? What is the relationship between indirect cost rate and the administrative cost rate of 10 percent?

A. The State does not prescribe a maximum indirect cost rate. Indirect costs are determined and approved by the applicable federal cognizant agency. Generally, the indirect cost rate charges are included in the 10 percent Administrative Cost limit.
Q. Would the purchases of computers that would be compatible with the local One-Stop system and meet the requirements for the JTA reporting requirements be an allowable budget expense?

A. Yes, equipment purchases are allowable in accordance with the instructions in Section VIII, Budget Summary Narrative and Plan.
Q. Because we emphasize passing the State Insurance examination as an important tool to increase success, we plan to have individuals enroll in an insurance school during their training. Our question, can or should we set aside funds from our WIA contract to pay for the trainee's $250 course to pass the California insurance examination?

A. The fee for a course to pass the California insurance examination is an allowable expense and should be included on the Budget Summary Plan.
Q. Under Budget Summary Plan, is "participant wages and fringe benefits" only applicable if paid job training is proposed? What are some of the examples of "indirect costs"?

A. The Participant Wages and Fringe Benefits line on the Budget Summary Plan is to be used when participants are hired and paid wages, such as in work experience programs. Indirect costs are usually a rate charged by a governmental entity to pay for a portion of overhead costs. Indirect costs are allowable under this grant if the cost rate has been approved by the applicable federal cognizant agency. Generally the indirect cost rate charges are included in the 10 percent Administrative cost limit.

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