Ensuring “Pro-American Worker” Critical Minerals Supply Chain in the Western Hemisphere

The Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB) within the U.S. Department of Labor is offering approximately 5 million dollars for one discretionary cooperative agreement under solicitation FOA-ILAB-26-30. This three-year project, with a performance period of up to 36 months, aims to strengthen labor standards compliance and transparency in the critical minerals supply chains of the Western Hemisphere, specifically focusing on copper, lithium, and silver in Chile and Argentina. The primary objective is to support American workers and manufacturing competitiveness by engaging government agencies, regional associations, workers, and the private sector to improve labor enforcement. Eligible applicants include a wide range of organizations, including commercial, international, educational, non-profit, faith-based, and community-based entities. Applications must be submitted via Grants.gov by September 21, 2026. The selection process involves a two-tiered review consisting of a technical panel assessment and a policy alignment appraisal, with additional considerations for risk reviews and alignment with Executive Order 14332. Key requirements include the submission of a technical proposal and a cost proposal using SF-424 and SF-424A forms. Applicants must provide a staffing matrix and resumes for key personnel, who must be onboarded within 30 days of the award. Financial oversight is rigorous, requiring a Financial System Risk Assessment and the use of the Department of Health and Human Services-Payment Management System for fund drawdowns, which require specific written justification and USDOL authorization. Final deliverables include technical progress and evaluation reports, as well as financial closeout documentation.