Valerie Secker
Valerie Secker serves as a Managing Director of Grants and Federal Affairs in the non-profit and public agencies practice. Working closely with her clients, she connects them with federal and foundation funding opportunities that match their organizational goals and mission.
The State of California’s Employment Development Department released the Employment and Training Pathways Program (ETPP) Program Year 2025-26.
California’s ETPP grants develop and implement projects that accelerate employment into high-demand occupations for good-quality jobs. The ETPP will develop skill-based career pathways by integrating education and workforce training programs that align with the specific needs of the state’s strategic industry sectors and serve California’s highest-need populations.
Through this program, ETPP grants participants will be connected to good-quality jobs and prepared to enter in-demand fields. The grant program aligns with the Governor’s People’s First and the California Jobs First initiatives to help connect workers to jobs and promote sustainable growth of the state’s economy.
ETPP Grant Opportunity Eligibility: Nonprofits, public agencies, tribal governments, local workforce development areas/boards, adult/education and training providers, community colleges, labor organizations, faith-based organizations, and community-based organizations serving California
- Expected Number of Awards: 8-32
- Anticipated Award Range: Up to $2 million over 2 years ($2 million total)
- Cost Matching Requirements: 20%
- Due Date: December 12, 2025
- Webinar: An informational webinar will be held on November 13, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. PT. Attendees must preregister by 1 p.m. PT on November 13, 2025.
ETPP grant applicants must demonstrate strong, ongoing partnerships with employers in their target industries and job roles. Proposals should clearly explain why these industries offer good, accessible jobs for the populations served, including clear paths for career growth and economic mobility. The selected sector should provide entry-level positions that lead to stable employment and pay family-supporting wages.
What are the Target Populations for the ETPP grant?
The ETPP grant program seeks proposals that will expand access to high-quality, career-connected learning opportunities for:
- English Language Learners
- Justice-involved individuals
- Opportunity young adults who are not working, working in low-wage occupations, have a pattern of intermittent employment, or are not in school
- Veterans who face systemic barriers to employment
Navigate Complex Funding Opportunities with McAllister & Quinn.
McAllister & Quinn is a premier government relations and grant consulting firm, based in Washington, D.C., serving clients nationwide. We’ve helped nonprofits and educational institutions secure more than $17 billion in competitive grant funding and over $1 billion in congressionally directed spending. Our team can help you navigate the complexities of federal, state, and foundation funding and strengthen your internal capacity. Let’s work together to advance your mission and create lasting impact.
Recent Grant Wins for our California Clients:
