Disability Employment Policy Development

The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) provides national leadership on disability employment policy to the Department of Labor and other Federal agencies. ODEP develops and fosters the adoption and implementation of comprehensive and integrated disability employment policies and strategies throughout the workforce development system, in public and private workplaces, and in employment-related supports programs and services. Implementation of these effective policies and strategies increase employment opportunities, the recruitment of, and reduce barriers to the hiring, retention and promotion of people with disabilities. ODEP's response to the low labor force participation of people with disabilities is comprehensive and aggressive, and includes securing the active involvement of and cooperation among a number of stakeholders, including Federal, State and local government agencies, private and public employers, educational and training institutions, and the disability community.

Nonprofit and for-profit organizations, State and local government agencies, academic institutions, and other entities are typically eligible. Eligibility requirements are detailed in each funding opportunity for cooperative agreements or grant applications.

Awards are made based on a panel review to ensure adherence to the funding opportunity requirements and Federal principles. Awards are made on approval of the Assistant Secretary of the Office of Disability Employment Policy and the subject to availability of funds and performance achievement.

Timeframes are detailed in each funding opportunity for cooperative agreement or grant applications.