Deadline: 01-May-2026
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Talent Search Program provides funding to support disadvantaged individuals in completing secondary education and pursuing postsecondary opportunities. Grants range from $250,000 to $10,000,000 and target organizations that can identify, guide, and assist students with educational pathways and financial aid access.
Program Overview
The Talent Search Program is designed to help individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds successfully complete high school and access higher education opportunities. The program focuses on outreach, guidance, and support to increase educational attainment and postsecondary enrollment.
Key Objectives
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Identify individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds with postsecondary education potential.
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Encourage the completion of secondary education (high school or equivalent).
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Facilitate entry or reentry into postsecondary education programs.
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Promote awareness of student financial assistance programs.
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Assist eligible individuals in applying for financial aid.
Funding Information
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Grant Amounts: $250,000 – $10,000,000 per award
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Funding Purpose: Support program implementation including outreach, guidance, educational assistance, and financial aid application support
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Award Types: Federal grants
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
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Native American tribal organizations (excluding federally recognized tribal governments)
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Federally recognized Native American tribal governments
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Public and state-controlled institutions of higher education
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Private institutions of higher education
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Independent school districts
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Nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status (excluding higher education institutions)
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State governments
Why It Matters
The Talent Search Program expands educational access for individuals who have not completed secondary or postsecondary programs. It helps disadvantaged students gain the guidance, support, and financial aid necessary to achieve higher education and improved career outcomes.
How to Apply
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Register on Grants.gov: All applicants must create an account to receive updates and application guidance.
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Prepare Required Documentation: Include organizational eligibility, program design, budget, and capacity to support participants.
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Submit Application: Complete the online application through Grants.gov by the designated deadline.
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Follow Up: Monitor communications from the Department of Labor for updates or requests for additional information.
Tips for Successful Applications
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Clearly demonstrate the capacity to identify and support disadvantaged students.
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Highlight strategies for increasing secondary school completion and postsecondary enrollment.
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Include detailed plans for financial aid awareness and application assistance.
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Ensure all eligibility criteria for the applicant organization are met.
FAQ
1. What is the funding range for the Talent Search Program?
Grants range from $250,000 to $10,000,000 per award.
2. Who can apply for this program?
Eligible applicants include tribal organizations, higher education institutions, school districts, nonprofits, and state governments as listed above.
3. What is the main goal of the program?
To support disadvantaged individuals in completing secondary school and pursuing postsecondary education, including financial aid support.
4. Are higher education institutions eligible to apply?
Yes, both private and public/state-controlled institutions are eligible.
5. How do applicants stay informed about updates?
Applicants should register on Grants.gov to receive announcements, guidance, and deadlines.
6. Can nonprofit organizations that are not schools apply?
Yes, nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status (excluding higher education institutions) are eligible.
7. What activities can be funded?
Funding supports identification, guidance, educational support, postsecondary entry assistance, and financial aid application support for disadvantaged individuals.
Conclusion
The Talent Search Program is a critical initiative to expand educational access for disadvantaged students. By providing comprehensive guidance, outreach, and financial aid support, the program empowers individuals to complete secondary education and pursue higher education, ultimately fostering improved educational and career outcomes.
For more information, visit Grants.gov.