Generation West Virginia seeks a contracted professional to create and support the organization in executing a sustainability plan for its NewForce program.
NewForce is a tech training program currently funded through federal and philanthropic sources. Currently underneath the NewForce umbrella are two programs – a six-month software development program, and a four-month data analytics program. As NewForce expands, the organization is interested in finding ways to utilize various state and federal incentives to support the program’s sustainability. These resources include but are not limited to Learn and Earn, WV Invests, small businesses/SBDCs, and the Registered Apprenticeship Program – programs that are operated by different state agencies and are funded through various federal and state sources, each with their own rules and regulations. There is also an opportunity to work with the Community and Technical Colleges to turn NewForce into a for-credit program, which would potentially provide a revenue stream to the program.
Needed services
GWV estimates that 70% of the consultant’s time will be spent on researching and creating the plan, while 30% will be spent on implementation support.
Research and plan creation (70% of time): The consultant will do desk research on the various incentives and programs available, as well as look into other models in West Virginia and around the country. Fact-finding will include outreach to key stakeholders. GWV staff will provide background and guidance throughout this process.
The sustainability consultant will work to identify all potential sources of support and how they may be utilized in conjunction with each other. The consultant would also identify creative solutions to utilizing these resources, including the creation of a program fee or tuition, turning NewForce into a for-credit program, a registered apprenticeship program, etc.
The consultant would address the following elements for each solution proposed:
- Budget implications – potential revenue vs expense
- Staffing needs to implement the solution – comparison of existing vs future staffing
- Program policy/eligibility implications – comparison of existing vs future program policy
- Timelines for the solution that include key phases of implementation and a list of all stakeholders to be engaged
- Advantages and disadvantages of adopting the solution
The plan will include an analysis of these options and recommendations for implementation.
Implementation support (30% of time): The consultant will provide support throughout implementation. This includes supporting GWV staff in navigating state and federal regulations and guidance documentation, as well as providing support as other challenges arise during the process.
Timeline and budget
Please submit proposals by August 16, 2024. The goal is to have the plan finalized by the end of December 2024, with implementation support in 2025.
The organization has a budget of $25,000 for this project.
About NewForce
NewForce consists of two fully remote full-time tech training programs that support West Virginians with training and placement in data analytics and software developer roles. Currently, the program is funded through philanthropic support, as well as federal programs including the Economic Development Administration (EDA), the Department of Labor’s (DOL) WORC grant program, the EDA’s Build Back Better Regional Challenge, and a DOL Employment and Training Administration grant.
NewForce is free to trainees. Trainees that meet income requirements currently receive an $11/hour stipend through the course of the program, thanks to DOL WORC grant funds.
NewForce is a program of Generation West Virginia (GWV), a statewide nonprofit that equips young West Virginians with key skills and career opportunities, ensuring their ability to thrive in the Mountain State. GWV was founded in 2007 and became a 501c3 in 2017.
The organization has seen substantial growth in the last two years, with increased federal funding and expanded programming. The organization has an annual budget of about $2 million, with a revenue mix of restricted and unrestricted grants, federal government funding, foundation and individual contributions, and sponsorships.
The organization is governed by a volunteer board of directors. GWV currently employs 16 staff members. The organization is fully remote.
Proposal process
Proposals are due August 16. Please submit a detailed proposal to Alex Weld, Executive Director, at [email protected] with the following elements included. Only written proposals submitted by email will be accepted. Submission emails must include the subject line “NewForce Sustainability Proposal.”
- Overview of firm qualifications with specific team member qualifications, including relevant work samples
- Proposal including proposed approach to the process, general proposed steps and timeline, deliverables, and budget
- References