Career and Technical Education (CTE) Incentive Grants

Eligibility

Wisconsin public school districts operating approved CTE programs in high-demand sectors. Districts must have students completing industry-recognized credentials (IRCs) or completing CTE program sequences. Both comprehensive high schools and CTE centers qualify.

Program Goals

Wisconsin's CTE Incentive Grant program rewards districts for student outcomes — specifically for students earning industry-recognized credentials and completing CTE pathways. The goal is to increase credential attainment in high-demand fields including technology, manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture, helping Wisconsin close workforce gaps while expanding student opportunity.

Learn more at dpi.wi.gov/cte

Application

Districts apply through the WI DPI grant portal by September 30, 2026. Applications include documentation of student credential completion and CTE enrollment data. DPI reviews eligible completers and calculates award amounts based on verified data. Work with your district's CTE director to compile accurate records.

Cycle Notes

Annual grant with a consistent September 30 deadline. Awards are announced in late fall and disbursed before the end of the fiscal year. Districts should maintain accurate student completion records throughout the year in preparation for the application.

Award Amount

Up to $1,000 per student graduate who earns an industry-recognized credential through an approved CTE program. Total district award depends on the number of qualifying completers. Districts with strong credential attainment can receive substantial multi-thousand dollar awards.

Allowable Purchases

CTE Incentive Grant funds support program improvement, equipment, and curriculum that strengthens CTE pathways. Allowable Forward Education products include:

• Coding for Good Kit — Supports computer science CTE pathway development with hands-on, project-based learning modules.
• Smart Solar Energy Kit — Directly supports energy and manufacturing CTE pathways with real-world circuit and systems design.
• Forward Education Learning Platform — Provides structured curriculum and teacher resources to strengthen CTE program quality and student outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which credentials qualify students for the incentive?
Wisconsin DPI publishes an approved list of industry-recognized credentials. Common examples include CompTIA IT Fundamentals, AWS Cloud Practitioner, and manufacturing credentials. Check dpi.wi.gov/cte for the current list.

Do students need to complete the full CTE sequence?
Yes — students must complete the approved CTE program sequence and earn the qualifying credential to generate an incentive award for the district.

Can CTE centers (not just comprehensive high schools) apply?
Yes. Regional CTE centers and career academies operating approved programs are eligible.

How are award amounts calculated?
DPI verifies eligible completers from submitted documentation and calculates up to $1,000 per qualifying graduate. Final amounts may be prorated if statewide demand exceeds appropriations.

Can funds be used for equipment in the next school year?
Yes. Awards received by the district can generally be used for approved CTE program expenses in the current or upcoming year, subject to district budget rules.