Securing Funding for CTE Programs: A Guide to Federal and State Grants with YaizY

Need funding for your CTE programs? Securing funding can be challenging, but YaizY is here to simplify your grant process.

To meet performance goals, schools need high-quality Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs that require resources that often demand more funding than traditional education budgets provide.

Federal and state grants provide the financial support necessary to sustain and expand CTE programs, ensuring your school can meet state and national benchmarks while preparing students for the workforce. By leveraging the right funding opportunities, you can enhance your programs and ensure students are career-ready upon graduation.

Federal and state grants

1. Federal grants

The federal government provides several grants to support CTE initiatives in K-12 schools. These grants aim to expand access to technical education, modernize equipment, strengthen industry partnerships, and provide professional development for teachers.

YaizY programs can be implemented using federal funds, including Perkins, ESSA, and 21st CCLC Funding.

• Perkins

  • Funds Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, ensuring students gain skills aligned with workforce needs.

• ESSA Funding Compatibility

  • Title I Funding

    • If your district has a high share of lower income students, you can use Title I Funding to support your CTE programs

  • Title II Funding

    • Title II funds can be spent on CTE teachers 

  • Title IV Funding

    • Funds can supplement CTE-related STEM programs, technology initiatives, and career readiness efforts

• 21st CCLC

  • Funds can be used to support career exploration CTE programs

2. State grants

In addition to federal funding, many states offer dedicated grants to expand and enhance CTE programs. These grants vary in availability and funding priorities, which are based on local workforce needs. 

Here are some of the examples of state grants:

• College and Career Access Pathways Grant in California

• Summer Career and Technical Education Grant in Texas

• Career Development Incentive Program in Colorado

3. Which Option Should Schools Choose?

The choice between federal and state grants depends on the school’s needs, eligibility, and the level of funding required:

• Choose Federal Grants If:

  • The school needs long-term, sustainable funding for its CTE programs.

  • The goal is to support broad CTE initiatives, such as improving access, equity, and program expansion.

  • The school is looking for large-scale funding that applies to multiple CTE pathways.

• Choose State Grants If:

  • The school wants to address specific pathways of CTE initiatives.

  • The goal is to obtain flexible, supplemental funding for specialized projects, curriculum purchases, or partnerships with apprenticeship providers.

  • The school needs funding that aligns closely with state education and workforce development priorities.

For the most effective funding strategy, schools should combine both federal and state grants where possible. Federal grants provide stable funding for core CTE programs, while state grants offer targeted resources to enhance specific initiatives, upgrade equipment, and expand industry collaborations.

How YaizY can help you

1. Selecting the Right Grants for Your School

Finding the right grants can be overwhelming, but YaizY simplifies the process. Our team can identify federal and state funding opportunities that align with your school's goals and student needs. We provide clear guidance on eligibility, requirements, and next steps to maximize your chances of securing funding.

2. Grant Application Support

Whether you need full grant writing services or support for your team, YaizY is here to help. With experience in launching and supporting CTE programs in 18 states, we assist in defining goals, crafting detailed plans, and ensuring strong applications. Our grant writing services are provided at no cost.

3. Making the Most of Your Grant Funding

Need to allocate remaining grant funds for CTE programs? YaizY helps schools make the most of their available funding by tailoring solutions that align with grant requirements and program objectives. We ensure every dollar contributes to student success and program sustainability.

Unlock the full potential of your CTE programs with the right funding. Let YaizY guide you through grants, applications, and strategic funding use — at no cost to your school. Get in touch today and see how we can help!

Contact us at hello@yaizy.io