How to Apply for US Aviation Workforce Grants in 2025

Overview of Aviation Workforce Development Grants in 2025

The FAA’s Aviation Workforce Development Grants program is authorized through fiscal year 2028 by the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024. The program aims to support the development of a workforce pipeline in several aviation sectors:

• Aircraft pilots (including unmanned aircraft systems operators)
• Aviation maintenance technicians
• Aerospace engineers
• Aviation manufacturing workers

Funding for 2025 grants ranges from $25,000 to $1 million per project per fiscal year. This range allows for various project sizes, from smaller community initiatives to more comprehensive training programs.

Who is Eligible to Apply?

The eligibility criteria for the 2025 Aviation Workforce Development Grants include:

• Part 147 aviation maintenance technician certificate holders, regardless of accreditation status
• Nonprofit organizations involved in aviation workforce development
• Educational institutions, community colleges, technical schools, and aviation-related training providers
• Other organizations proposing projects focused on recruitment, education, outreach, or career transitions in aviation

Applicants should ensure that their proposals align with FAA priorities and demonstrate how their projects contribute to workforce development in pilot training, maintenance, engineering, or manufacturing.

How to Apply for the Grants in 2025

Step 1: Create an Account on Grants.gov

All applications must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov, the official federal grants portal. Before applying, you need to:

• Register an applicant account on Grants.gov
• Obtain necessary authorizations such as a DUNS number (or unique entity ID)
• Complete all required profile information

Allow adequate time for registration and system setup, which may take several weeks.

Step 2: Review the FAA’s Current Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)

Each year, the FAA releases a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) specific to the Aviation Workforce Development Grants. The NOFO typically includes:

• Application instructions and required forms
• Evaluation criteria
• Eligibility guidelines
• Submission deadlines

For the 2025 cycle, check the FAA and Grants.gov websites regularly to download the latest NOFO and ensure your application complies with all current requirements.

Step 3: Prepare a Grant Application Package

Your application package generally should include:

• A project narrative outlining goals, activities, and expected outcomes consistent with FAA priorities
• A detailed budget explaining how grant funds will be used
• Proof of eligibility, such as relevant certificates or accreditation
• Letters of support or partnership agreements, if relevant
• Evidence of your organization’s ability to carry out the proposed project

Focus on explaining how your project addresses workforce gaps in pilot recruitment, technician training, engineering, or manufacturing.

Step 4: Attend FAA Workshops for Application Guidance

The FAA is offering workshops to support applicants in preparing their submissions:

• Hybrid Aviation Workforce Development Workshops in November 2024:Scheduled for November 14 at the University of the District of Columbia and November 21 at Texas Southern University, these sessions will be held both in-person and online.The workshops provide detailed guidance on application requirements and offer opportunities to ask questions directly to FAA representatives.

Participation in these workshops can help clarify application steps and enhance your preparation.

Step 5: Submit Your Application Electronically by the Deadline

After finalizing your application, submit it through Grants.gov before the designated deadline. While the specific 2025 deadline has not yet been announced, applicants should regularly consult:

• The FAA Aviation Workforce Grants webpage
• Grants.gov notifications

Timely submission is important, as late applications are typically not accepted.

Step 6: Stay Informed and Maintain Communication

Since program details and priorities may change, keep up to date by:

• Subscribing to FAA updates on workforce development grants
• Monitoring any changes to the application process or NOFO releases
• Contacting FAA grant program staff for clarifications if needed

Regular monitoring helps ensure your application meets all current criteria.

Additional Important Considerations

Cost and Funding Use

• Grant amounts range from $25,000 to $1 million per project annually.
• Funds must be allocated exclusively for activities that support aviation workforce recruitment, education, training, or career transitions.
• Projects are expected to demonstrate how they contribute to addressing workforce needs, with measurable objectives.

Planning and Preparation Suggestions

• Start preparing your application well in advance of the deadline.
• Review relevant FAA legislation and past awardees to inform your proposal.
• Participate in available FAA workshops and webinars.
• Ensure your application is clear, compliant, and complete.
• Explore partnerships with other aviation or educational organizations to strengthen your proposal.

Information About Program Transition After 2027

The Aviation Workforce Development Grants program will continue under FAA management through fiscal year 2027. Beginning in 2028, the program is expected to transition to the Department of Transportation’s Cooperative Aviation Recruitment, Enrichment, and Employment Readiness (CAREER) Program, which aims to sustain federal support for aviation workforce development.

• Register on Grants.gov early.
• Review the FAA’s most recent NOFO instructions carefully.
• Participate in FAA workshops offered in November 2024.
• Prepare a detailed application focused on workforce development goals.
• Submit your application electronically before the official deadline.
• Stay updated on program information through FAA communications.

Following these guidelines can assist your organization in preparing a competitive application for aviation workforce development funding in 2025.

Sources

• [Aviation Workforce Development Grants

  FAA](https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/ang/grants/awd)

• [Aviation Workforce Development Grants - Aircraft Pilots

  FAA](https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/ang/grants/awd/pilots)

• [FAA to Host Aviation Workforce Development Grant Workshops

  Aviation Technician Education Council](https://www.atec-amt.org/news/faa-to-host-aviation-workforce-development-grant-workshops)

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