Eligibility

Public school districts, community colleges, and public technical institutes in Texas are eligible to apply. Applicants must partner with a local Workforce Development Board and demonstrate alignment to a high-demand occupation in their region. Private secondary schools and independent colleges are not eligible.

Program Goals

The JET Grant Program supports career and technical education (CTE) by funding equipment, technology, and program development needed to prepare students for high-skill, high-wage, and high-demand jobs in Texas. The program is administered by the Texas Workforce Commission and targets industry sectors with documented local workforce shortages, including technology, manufacturing, and health science.

Application and Distribution

Applicants submit proposals through the TWC Procurement Portal during the annual Request for Applications (RFA) cycle. Applications require a partnership letter from a local Workforce Development Board, a list of targeted occupations, and a detailed equipment budget. TWC reviews applications competitively and awards grants to highest-scoring proposals.

Cycle Notes

The JET RFA cycle typically opens in the fall and closes within 60 days. Grant periods are 18-24 months. The program is subject to legislative appropriation, so cycle timing and funding levels can vary by year. Check the TWC Procurement Portal at twc.texas.gov for current RFAs.

Grant Award Amount

JET grants can reach up to $2 million per award, though most project awards range from $100,000 to $750,000 depending on program scope and number of students served. Funds must be used for equipment directly tied to the approved CTE program — not for salaries, facilities, or general supplies.

Allowable Purchases

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the JET Grant in Texas?

Public school districts, community colleges, and public technical institutes in Texas may apply. Each applicant must have a signed partnership letter from a local Workforce Development Board and must target high-demand occupations in their region.

How much funding is available through the JET Grant?

Awards can reach up to $2 million. Most projects receive between $100,000 and $750,000. Funds must cover equipment tied directly to the CTE program — not administrative costs or facilities.

Can JET Grant funds be used for STEM and coding tools?

Yes. JET Grant 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 and the targeted high-demand occupation before purchasing.

How do Texas schools apply for the JET Grant?

Apply through the TWC Procurement Portal during the annual RFA window. Proposals must include a partnership letter from a Workforce Development Board, targeted occupation data, and an itemized equipment budget. Check the TWC website for current RFA timing.

How can Forward Education help with JET Grant funding?

Forward Education provides curriculum alignment documents, official pricing letters for grant budgets, and letters of support for Texas schools. Our STEM kits are purpose-built to meet the learning outcomes the JET Grant funds. Contact us before submitting your application.