State Summer Youth Employment Program

The State of Delaware is soliciting proposals to deliver the State Summer Youth Employment Program (SSYEP) for the 2026‑2027 fiscal year. The awardee will provide all materiel, services, staffing, training, and wage administration needed to place Delaware‑resident youth (ages 14‑20) into paid, meaningful work experiences both during the summer (up to 250 hours) and year‑round (up to 500 hours). The program must meet strict demographic targets, comply with Delaware child‑labor law, and manage participant data through Delaware JobLink. The contractor will be responsible for recruiting participants, hiring work‑leaders, delivering orientation and soft‑skill workshops, ensuring wage payments at the state minimum, and reporting monthly usage and quarterly subcontractor data. • Target youth: 14‑20 yr Delaware residents, ≥ 70 % low‑income. • Service period: June 14 2026 – June 13 2027 (one‑year contract, renewable up to four extensions). • Funding: $625,000 total pool for the first year, to be used exclusively for participant wages and direct program costs (no overhead line‑item). • Mandatory pre‑bid meeting on Feb 19 2026; proposals due Mar 12 2026.