Career Technical Education Incentive Grant (CTEIG)
Eligibility
California local educational agencies (school districts, county offices of education, and charter schools) serving grades 6-12 may apply. Programs must be aligned to California's CTE model curriculum standards and must target industry sectors with local workforce demand. LEAs must demonstrate partnerships with business and industry.
Program Goals
CTEIG provides competitive grants to California LEAs to develop, maintain, and expand high-quality CTE programs aligned to industry needs. The grant supports curriculum development, equipment acquisition, teacher professional development, and industry partnerships. Priority is given to programs serving underrepresented student populations and those aligned to high-demand regional sectors including technology, health, and advanced manufacturing.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
CTEIG applications are submitted through the CDE funding system during the annual RFA window. Applications must include a CTE program plan, industry sector alignment, budget, and evidence of business partnerships. The current cycle is closed; the next cycle is expected to open May 18, 2027.
Cycle Notes
CTEIG runs on an annual competitive cycle. The current cycle is closed and the next is expected to open May 18, 2027. Grant periods are typically 3 years. Check the CDE CTE funding page at cde.ca.gov/ci/ct/sf for current RFA postings and deadlines.
Grant Award Amount
CTEIG awards vary by district size, with large districts eligible for up to $3 million. Small districts and charter schools may receive smaller amounts. Funds can be used for CTE equipment, curriculum, teacher credentialing, and industry partnership activities.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- micro:bit Starter Kit — physical computing aligned to CTE technology pathways
- MicroChat AI Literacy Kit — AI and data science for technology sector CTE programs
- Coding for Good Kit — project-based CTE coding curriculum for grades 6-12
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for CTEIG in California?
California LEAs (school districts, county offices, charter schools) serving grades 6-12 may apply. Programs must align to CDE CTE model standards and include business-industry partnerships.
How much funding is available through CTEIG?
Awards vary by district size, with large districts eligible for up to $3 million per 3-year grant period. Smaller districts and charters receive proportionally smaller awards.
Can CTEIG funds be used for STEM and coding tools?
Yes. CTEIG funds can support hands-on STEM materials, physical computing kits, and coding curriculum when they align to the program's stated goals. Document alignment to program objectives before purchasing.
How do California schools apply for CTEIG?
Apply through the CDE funding portal during the annual RFA window, expected to open May 18, 2027. Applications require a CTE program plan, industry sector alignment, budget, and documentation of business partnerships.
How can Forward Education help with CTEIG funding?
Forward Education provides curriculum alignment documents, official pricing letters for grant budgets, and letters of support for California schools. Our STEM kits are purpose-built to meet the learning outcomes CTEIG funds. Contact us before submitting your application.
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 — California 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
Explore more California funding resources
View all California AI & CS grants →Download the Forward Education Grant Guide
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