Youth Innovation Fund Application
Youth Innovation Fund Application
Purpose of the Youth Innovation Fund
The Youth Innovation Fund provides flexible, per-participant funding to support innovative programs that connect youth ages 16–24 to career pathways in Jackson and Josephine counties. The fund is designed to support projects that offer occupational skills training, work experience, and workforce preparation activities. The goal is to increase equitable access to meaningful employment and education opportunities, particularly for youth from underserved communities.
Participant Eligibility
To qualify for funding, all participants in the proposed program must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be between 16 and 24 years of age
- Be a resident of Jackson or Josephine County
- Training/service requested located in Jackson or Josephine County if in-person attendance is required.
Provide documentation of:
- Proof of Oregon residency (e.g., state ID, lease agreement, utility bill, school enrollment form)
OR
- Work authorization (e.g., Social Security card, U.S. passport, birth certificate, I-9 eligible documents)
Financial Support Information
The Youth Innovation Fund provides direct per-participant funding only.
- Maximum funding per participant: $3,500
- Proposal limit: $30,000
- All projects must conclude by June 30, 2026
Funds may be used for the following allowable costs:
- Wages for youth work experience
- Training or tuition expenses for occupational skills development
- Support services such as transportation, tools, equipment, childcare, testing, or licensing fees
Compliance with Federal, State, and Funders’ Requirements
All Youth Innovation Fund projects must comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) where relevant, as well as the requirements of all RWP-administered funding sources, including funder-specific guidance. Proposals that include unallowable activities or activities that conflict with any funding restrictions, will not be approved.
Please note:
- No administrative, overhead, or indirect costs will be funded
- Funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, contingent upon participant eligibility and available funding
- Proposal budgets are considered estimates and may be adjusted upon award determination
All youth and projects must be located in Jackson or Josephine County.