Innovative Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) Grant

The Innovative Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) program by the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services aims to empower students with disabilities through tailored skill development and innovative methodologies. With a funding pool of up to $2,750,000 for five contracts in Federal Fiscal Year 2026, the initiative seeks to bridge communication gaps and enhance outreach, specifically targeting underrepresented youth facing systemic barriers. This program strives to create sustainable, technology-integrated solutions for workforce integration.

New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
The mission of the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) is to enable eligible individuals with disabilities to achieve an employment outcome consistent with their strengths, priorities, needs, abilities, and capabilities.
Purpose for Which Funds will be Used
In response to the dynamic landscape of today's job market, there is an imperative need to acknowledge the communication gaps and lack of awareness that exists in Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS). To address these concerns, we are seeking robust Pre-ETS programs that are tailored to equip Students with Disabilities (SWD) with the skills and experiences essential for success. DVRS is seeking providers who will implement innovative and unique methodologies in delivering Pre-ETS. These methodologies may include new, creative, interdisciplinary, scalability, sustainability, technology integration, and person-centered approaches. Providers should also focus on serving SWD, specifically those affected by substance use disorders, justice-involved, mental health diagnoses, or underrepresented youth (youth who may face systemic barriers due to factors like race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, gender identity, geographic location, or immigration status). In addition, services should improve awareness of Pre-ETS, increase outreach, and foster communication between DVRS, schools, students, families, community resources, and other stakeholders.
Available Funding
DVRS will be awarding a total of five (5) contracts for this initiative. The total amount of funding available for this program in Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2026 will be up to $2,750,000 with no more than $550,000 per contract per year