Many communities across the United States are struggling with job loss, low wages, and limited career opportunities. To address this issue, the Recompete Pilot Program, managed by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), provides large-scale federal funding that can reach tens of millions of dollars per selected region. The program focuses on helping adults between the ages of 25 and 54 reconnect with stable, well-paying jobs.
This initiative supports economically distressed communities where employment rates are low. The main goal is to increase workforce participation and connect working-age adults to long-term career opportunities.
What Is the Recompete Pilot Program?
The Recompete Pilot Program is a federal grant initiative created to help communities with high unemployment or low workforce participation. Instead of providing small individual grants, the program awards major funding packages — often ranging from $20 million to $50 million per selected area, depending on the proposal and project scope.
The funding helps local governments, workforce boards, nonprofits, and regional partnerships design programs that:
- Create job training opportunities
- Improve career pathways
- Connect residents to employers
- Support childcare and transportation access
- Strengthen local economic development strategies
The program is focused on building long-term economic growth rather than short-term solutions.
Official information is available at:
- U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA): https://www.eda.gov
- Recompete Pilot Program page: https://www.eda.gov/funding/programs/recompete
Who Can Apply for Recompete Funding?
Recompete grants are not awarded directly to individuals. Instead, eligible applicants include:
- Local and regional governments
- Economic development organizations
- Workforce development boards
- Tribal governments
- Nonprofit and community-based partnerships
These organizations apply for funding to support large-scale regional projects that benefit working-age adults.
How Much Funding Is Available?
The Recompete Pilot Program provides significant federal investment, with awards that may range between $20 million and $50 million per selected region. The total national funding pool may reach hundreds of millions of dollars, depending on federal budget allocations.
Although individuals do not receive direct cash payments, the value of new training programs, job placement services, and workforce support in funded communities can be substantial. The funding is used to:
- Expand training centers
- Support job matching services
- Provide career counseling
- Address barriers like transportation and childcare
- Partner with local employers for hiring programs
Application Process for Organizations
Organizations interested in applying must follow these general steps:
- Review official eligibility guidelines on the EDA website.
- Submit an initial application or concept proposal if required.
- Develop a detailed regional strategy outlining job creation and workforce plans.
- Submit the final proposal before the official deadline.
Applications are submitted online through the federal grants system or EDA portal.
Application Dates and Last Date to Apply
Funding announcements for the Recompete Pilot Program are released based on federal budget approvals. Application windows may remain open for several weeks or months after the official notice is published.
There is no permanent year-round deadline, so organizations must check for active funding rounds. Important updates can be found at:
Late applications are not accepted once the deadline closes.
Why the Recompete Program Matters
Adults aged 25 to 54 are considered core working-age individuals. When large numbers of people in this age group are unemployed or underemployed, communities face economic challenges. The Recompete Pilot Program helps address these gaps by investing directly in local solutions.
Instead of short-term fixes, the program supports long-term employment systems that create better wages and career growth. Communities benefit from stronger economies, while residents gain access to stable job opportunities.
The Recompete Pilot Program (EDA) 2026 represents one of the federal government’s major efforts to support economically distressed communities through large-scale funding. With awards that may range from $20 million to $50 million per selected region, the program focuses on helping adults aged 25 to 54 reconnect with stable and well-paying employment. Although individuals cannot apply directly, they benefit from expanded job training programs, career services, and employer partnerships created through funded projects. By strengthening local workforce systems and addressing barriers such as transportation and childcare, the Recompete initiative promotes long-term economic growth and improved employment outcomes. Communities that successfully secure funding can build stronger pathways to opportunity and create lasting positive change for working-age residents.
FAQs
1. How much funding does the Recompete Pilot Program offer?
Selected regions may receive between $20 million and $50 million, depending on the project scope.
2. Can individuals apply for Recompete grants?
No. Only eligible organizations such as local governments and workforce boards can apply.
3. Who benefits from this program?
Adults aged 25–54 living in economically distressed communities benefit from new job and training programs.
4. Where can organizations apply?
Applications and funding details are available at eda.gov.
5. Is there a fixed last date to apply?
No. Deadlines depend on the active federal funding round announced by the EDA.
