Customized Employment Initiative 2026
🏛 New York State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council
✓ Free, no account · Source: New York SFS Grant Opportunity Portal · Last verified Jul 8, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for organizations seeking to support customized employment services for individuals with developmental disabilities. Eligible applicants include governmental entities, not-for-profit organizations, and tribal organizations. Projects must align with workforce development and vocational training priorities. Activities typically include assessment, job matching, employer engagement, and employment support services.
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Program description
Customized Employment Initiative 2026 is a New York State grant opportunity administered by the New York State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council. Total program funding is approximately $1,400,000. Eligible applicants: Governmental Entity, Not-For-Profit, Tribal Organization. Focus area: Workforce Development. Project period: 48 Month(s). Applications are due 2026-08-07. Posted through the New York State Grant Opportunity Portal in the Statewide Financial System (SFS).
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
- 501(c)(3) Public Charity
- City / Municipal Government
- County Government
- Nonprofits
- State Government
- Tribal Organization
Demographic focus
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- Application Form (via New York State Grant Opportunity Portal/SFS)
- Project Narrative
- Budget and Budget Narrative
- Organizational Capacity Documentation
- Letters of Support from Partners/Employers
Program contact
- 👤 Kimberly Berg
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Governmental entities, not-for-profit organizations, and tribal organizations are eligible. Organizations must be based in or serve New York State.
What is the project duration?
This grant supports 48-month (4-year) projects. Multi-year funding allows for sustained workforce development initiatives.
What types of activities are eligible?
Typical activities include customized employment assessments, job development, employer engagement, and ongoing employment support for individuals with developmental disabilities.
When is the deadline?
Applications are due August 7, 2026. This is a fixed deadline; early submission is recommended.
What is the funding range?
Total program funding is $1,400,000. Individual award amounts are not specified; check the grant portal for typical award sizes.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Focus your proposal on how customized employment improves outcomes for individuals with developmental disabilities in New York.
- Emphasize partnerships with employers, rehabilitation providers, and support networks to strengthen job placement sustainability.
- Provide clear data on anticipated participant numbers, employment rates, and wage outcomes expected over the 4-year period.
- Align your workforce development approach with New York State's broader disability employment goals and labor market needs.
- Include letters of support from employers and partner agencies demonstrating community buy-in for your proposed model.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Weak employer partnerships or no evidence of existing employer relationships. Vague descriptions of what "customized employment" means for your specific participant population. Failure to address sustainability beyond the grant period or plan for participant outcomes measurement.
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