Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) grant for Program Year 2026-27
Can you apply?
This grant is for public agencies and private non-profit organizations in California serving deaf and hard of hearing individuals. Applicants must provide employment services through America's Job Center of California (AJCC) locations. Activities include specialized counseling, interpretation services, job placement, follow-up services, and advocacy ensuring equal access to employment services. Individuals cannot apply directly; only organizations may submit proposals.
This grant is for public agencies and private non-profit organizations in California serving deaf and hard of hearing individuals. Applicants must provide employment services through America's Job Center of California (AJCC) locations. Activities include specialized counseling, interpretation services, job placement, follow-up services, and advocacy ensuring equal access to employment services. Individuals cannot apply directly; only organizations may submit proposals.
Program description
The Employment Development Department (EDD) announces the availability of up to $2.7 million in Wagner-Peyser 10 percent Governor’s Discretionary funds for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) Program Year 2026-27 (PY 26-27) grant. This program provides deaf and hard of hearing individuals with enhanced employment services in select America’s Job Center of California (AJCC) locations throughout California. The program will ensure effective communication and increased service opportunities for deaf and hard of hearing individuals by providing specialized counseling, interpretation services, job placement, follow-up services, advocacy that ensures deaf and hard of hearing individuals receive equal access to public and private employment services, and specialized employment preparation services to assist them in becoming job-ready. Eligible applicants for DHH PY 26-27 SFP include public agencies or private non-profit organizations. Individuals are not eligible apply. Leveraged funds are not required for this project, but applicants are encouraged to maximize impact by leveraging other resources; These may include funds, human capital, and other resources from various sources, such as businesses, industry associations, labor organizations, and government programs. Leveraged funds and in-kind resources must be consistent with allowable project activities and may be used by the awardee. Proposals must be received by 3 p.m. PT on June 18, 2026. An informational webinar will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. PT. Pre-registration is required for all attendees. Please refer to the EDD’s Workforce Development Solicitation for Proposals website link below for pre-register instructions: https://edd.ca.gov/en/jobs_and_training/WDSFP_Workforce_Development_Solicitations_for_Proposals The EDD encourages applicants to submit a Notice of Intent to apply by June 12, 2026 at noon PT to WSBSFP2@edd.ca.gov. To view this SFP, visit the EDD Workforce Development Solicitations for Proposals webpage.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Demographic focus
Details
This grant is for public agencies and private non-profit organizations in California serving deaf and hard of hearing individuals. Applicants must provide employment services through America's Job Center of California (AJCC) locations. Activities include specialized counseling, interpretation services, job placement, follow-up services, and advocacy ensuring equal access to employment services. Individuals cannot apply directly; only organizations may submit proposals.
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Notice of Intent (encouraged by June 12, 2026)
- Proposal narrative with program design
- Budget and budget narrative
- Evidence of organizational capacity
- Commitment letters from AJCC partners
- Description of interpretation and accessibility services
Program contact
- 📧 brandon.raveling@edd.ca.gov
- 📞 1-916-891-9189
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Public agencies and private non-profit organizations in California are eligible. Individual applicants cannot apply.
What is the deadline and how do I submit?
Proposals are due by 3 p.m. PT on June 18, 2026. The EDD encourages a Notice of Intent by June 12, 2026.
What activities does this grant fund?
The program funds specialized counseling, interpretation services, job placement, follow-up services, and advocacy for deaf and hard of hearing employment seekers.
Is cost-sharing required?
No cost-sharing is required, but leveraging additional funds and in-kind resources is encouraged to maximize impact.
What is the funding amount?
Up to $2.7 million is available for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program Year 2026-27. Individual award amounts are not specified.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Attend the informational webinar on June 3, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. PT. Pre-registration is required on the EDD website.
- Submit a Notice of Intent by June 12, 2026 at noon PT to WSBSFP2@edd.ca.gov to signal serious interest.
- Plan to serve deaf and hard of hearing populations through existing or new AJCC locations across California.
- Include interpretation services, counseling, and job placement activities in your proposal design.
- Identify and document any leveraged funds or in-kind resources from businesses, labor organizations, or government programs.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Failing to demonstrate proven capacity to serve deaf and hard of hearing populations effectively. Not including detailed interpretation services and specialized accessibility accommodations in your program design. Submitting proposals without attending the informational webinar or contacting EDD for clarification on local priorities.
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