economic mobility for working adults – Feb 20

Posted by Education Design Lab on January 20, 2026

Education Design Lab launch effort to help working adults without a bachelor’s degree

The Education Design Lab (the Lab) and its partners have announced a $3.5 million request for proposals (RFP) that promotes economic mobility for working adults without a bachelor’s degree.

The Advancing Workforce Mobility initiative is a collaborative effort led by the Lab, in technical partnership with Credential Engine, and made possible by funding from Walmart. The 18 month initiative will fund a portfolio of projects that make workers’ skills and credentials more visible, trusted, and transferable, with a specific focus on workers who are skilled through alternative routes (STARs). STARs are the 70+ million working adults in the United States who have developed skills through pathways other than a bachelor’s degree, such as military service, community college, work experience, boot camps, or self-directed learning.

Between seven and 12 grants ranging from $250,000 to $600,000 will be awarded across two tracks and three readiness tiers. Grantees will also be supported with technical assistance and a facilitated community of practice. The RFP welcomes applications from U.S.-based nonprofits and governmental organizations. Multi-organization partnerships and collaboratives are encouraged, but one eligible organization must serve as the lead applicant.

For complete program guidelines and application instructions, see the Education Design Lab website.

Deadline: February 20, 2026