Career Preparation and Launch Grants (CTE Equipment)
Eligibility
Washington public school districts with approved CTE programs. Funds equipment and facility improvements for secondary CTE courses.
Program Goals
The Career Preparation and Launch Grants fund CTE equipment and facility upgrades at Washington high schools. The program helps districts modernize their career and technical education programs with updated tools, machinery, and technology that reflect current industry standards.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
School districts apply through OSPI. Applications typically open in early fall and close in November. Districts must have approved CTE programs to be eligible. Review OSPI's CTE grants page each fall for the current application window.
Cycle Notes
Annual fall cycle. The 2025 deadline was November 12. The next cycle is expected fall 2026. Monitor OSPI's grants page for the official opening date.
Grant Award Amount
Up to $200,000 per district per cycle. Funds go toward CTE equipment and facility improvements. Districts with larger CTE programs may qualify for higher awards within the cap.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- Coding for Good Kit - Classroom-ready coding and robotics kits that align to CS and technology CTE pathways. Scale to full classroom sets for district-wide deployment.
- CodeCTRL controller with display for micro:bit - Hands-on controller accessory ideal for CTE game design, robotics, and technology courses.
- Forward Education Learning Platform - Includes career profiles and professional development content that connects CTE learning to real industry pathways.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Career Preparation and Launch Grant?
It is a Washington state grant from OSPI that funds CTE equipment and facility upgrades at high schools with approved career and technical education programs.
Can we buy coding kits with this grant?
Yes. Technology and coding equipment that supports approved CTE pathways, including computer science and technology programs, qualifies under this grant.
Do districts need to match funds?
Check OSPI's current guidelines. Match requirements may vary by cycle. Review the official application materials each fall for current requirements.
Can individual schools apply or only districts?
Districts apply on behalf of their schools. The grant is awarded at the district level and distributed to eligible CTE programs within the district.
When is the next application window?
The next cycle is expected fall 2026. Check OSPI's Career Preparation and Launch Grants page each August for the official opening date.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals. We can help you connect our tools to your grant requirements.
- Curriculum alignment documents - Washington standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing - classroom sets, bundles, and multi-site pricing
- Letters of support - documentation for grant applications
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence - ready-to-use program outlines
Download the Forward Education Grant Guide
Our grant guide helps educators find the right funding sources and build strong applications for STEM and coding programs.
Get the Grant Guide
