Request for Proposals (RFP) Pathmaker Workforce Program

The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MassTech) is soliciting proposals for the Pathmaker Workforce Program, an employer-driven initiative designed to expand access to high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing, robotics, defense, artificial intelligence, and technology. The program provides direct funding to organizations that build and scale short-term, industry-aligned training pathways specifically for individuals from low-income or underrepresented communities. To be eligible, applicants must have at least one industry partner demonstrating a direct hiring need and must contract with the MassHire workforce system for recruitment and data collection. The primary objective is to place participants into open positions immediately or within three months of program completion. Proposals are evaluated using a common scoring calculator based on the quality of the proposal and a cost benchmark target of 10,000 dollars per employment outcome. Awarded funds are disbursed with 60 percent available upon execution of a grant agreement and the remaining 40 percent provided on a reimbursement basis. Performance is measured by graduation rates, with a successful program defined as having at least 60 percent of the cohort graduate, while rates below 40 percent will trigger an investigation. Grantees are required to submit annual reports every June 30 and a final post-project report one year after the project concludes. Applications must be submitted through the MassTech online portal by April 16, 2027, and must include a detailed budget using the provided standard template.