Delaware Department of Labor Launches Workforce Pell Initiative to Expand Access to High-Demand Workforce Training

New Workforce Pell Policy and application process position Delaware institutions to participate in the federal Workforce Pell Grant program

DOVER, Del. - The Delaware Department of Labor (DDOL), through the Office of Workforce Development (OWD), today announced the release of Delaware's Workforce Pell Program Policy and the opening of the State's Workforce Pell application process, marking a significant milestone in the implementation of the new federal Workforce Pell Grant program.

The Workforce Pell Program expands access to federal Pell Grants for students enrolled in high-quality, short-term education and training programs that prepare learners for high-skill, high-wage, and in-demand occupations. Delaware's newly released policy establishes the framework for certifying eligible programs and outlines the standards institutions of higher education must meet before programs can be submitted to the U.S. Department of Education for final approval.

Under the federal Workforce Pell regulations, Governors play a central role in determining program eligibility. In Delaware, Governor Meyer has designated the Office of Workforce Development within the Delaware Department of Labor to administer the program, coordinate cross-agency review, and certify eligible education and training programs that meet federal and state quality standards.

Delaware's Workforce Pell implementation strategy utilizes an occupation-first approval model, aligning eligible programs with the State's High Demand Occupation List and requiring institutions to demonstrate employer demand, academic quality, credential portability and stackability, and strong student outcomes. The policy also establishes a comprehensive review process, ongoing performance monitoring, and coordination across Delaware's workforce, education, and economic development systems.

"Workforce Pell represents one of the most significant expansions of federal financial aid in decades," said LaKresha Moultrie, Secretary of the Delaware Department of Labor. "By making high-quality, short-term workforce training eligible for Pell Grants, we are opening new pathways for Delawareans to earn industry-recognized credentials, enter rewarding careers, and continue their education. At the same time, we are helping employers build the skilled workforce they need to compete and grow."

"Workforce Pell is more than a financial aid program, it is a workforce strategy," said Joanna Staib, Statewide Coordinator of the Office of Workforce Development. "Delaware's implementation framework ensures that federal investments are aligned with employer demand, career pathways, and long-term economic mobility. By working together with higher education institutions, employers, and workforce partners, we are building a system that benefits both learners and businesses."

Eligible institutions are now invited to submit Workforce Pell applications through the Office of Workforce Development. Applications will be reviewed by the Workforce Pell Review Committee, with certification decisions made by OWD on behalf of the Governor before submission to the U.S. Department of Education for federal approval.

Institutions seeking Workforce Pell certification may begin the application process by completing the online application found here: Workforce Pell - Delaware Department of Labor

The complete Delaware Workforce Pell Program Policy is now available and provides detailed guidance regarding program eligibility, employer validation, performance expectations, data reporting requirements, the application and review process, appeals procedures, and Delaware's approved Workforce Pell occupation list.

Additional Workforce Pell resources, including technical assistance, implementation guidance, and future updates, will be made available through the Delaware Department of Labor's Office of Workforce Development.

Media Inquiries:
Jeffrey Powell, Chief of Staff, Delaware Department of Labor
[email protected], 302-761-8005