$1.5 Billion Perkins V State Allocations for Career and Technical Education Opening Soon

States across America are preparing to receive substantial federal funding through the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 (Perkins V). The Office of Career Technical and Adult Education has announced fiscal year 2026 state allocations ranging from $197,032 to an impressive $142,867,852 per state.

Understanding Perkins V State Allocations

The Perkins V program represents one of the federal government's most significant investments in career and technical education. Unlike competitive grants, these are formula-based allocations, meaning each state receives funding based on predetermined factors including population demographics and economic indicators.

State education agencies serve as the primary recipients of these funds, which they then distribute to local educational institutions, community colleges, and other eligible providers. The wide range in allocation amounts reflects the varying sizes and needs of different states, from smaller territories receiving around $200,000 to large states receiving over $100 million.

What This Funding Supports

Perkins V funding specifically targets career and technical education programs that prepare students for high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors. States can use these funds for:

• Equipment and technology upgrades for CTE programs
• Professional development for educators and administrators
• Program evaluation and improvement initiatives
• Support services for special populations
• Work-based learning opportunities including apprenticeships
• Dual enrollment programs connecting high schools and colleges

Key Program Requirements

States receiving Perkins V allocations must meet specific federal requirements. They need to develop comprehensive state plans outlining how funds will improve CTE program quality and student outcomes. These plans must address accountability measures, including technical skill assessments and industry-recognized credentials.

The legislation emphasizes programs aligned with labor market demands. States must demonstrate how their CTE offerings connect to regional economic development priorities and emerging industry needs. This might include advanced manufacturing, healthcare, information technology, or renewable energy sectors.

Timeline and Application Process

The application deadline of May 26, 2026, gives states ample time to prepare comprehensive proposals. However, successful applications require extensive planning and stakeholder engagement. State education agencies typically begin preparation 12 to 18 months before the deadline.

States must coordinate with various stakeholders including:

• Local school districts and community colleges
• Regional workforce development boards
• Industry associations and employers
• Labor organizations
• Parent and student advocacy groups

Special Populations Focus

Perkins V places particular emphasis on serving special populations, including students with disabilities, economically disadvantaged students, and those from non-traditional career fields. States must demonstrate how their programs will improve access and success for these groups.

The law requires specific performance indicators for special populations, including technical skill attainment, credential acquisition, and post-program placement rates. States failing to meet these benchmarks face potential funding reductions in subsequent years.

Innovation and Emerging Technologies

Modern CTE programs increasingly incorporate emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced manufacturing techniques. Perkins V funding enables states to purchase cutting-edge equipment and provide relevant training for both students and instructors.

Many states use portions of their allocations to establish centers of excellence or specialized training facilities. These serve multiple school districts and provide access to expensive equipment that individual schools cannot afford independently.

Accountability and Performance Measures

States must track and report on specific performance indicators including:

• Technical skill attainment rates
• Secondary and postsecondary credential rates
• Employment placement rates
• Median earnings of program completers
• Program quality indicators

The Department of Education reviews these performance measures annually. States showing consistent improvement often receive recognition and additional support, while those struggling may receive technical assistance.

Economic Impact

Research consistently demonstrates the economic benefits of strong CTE programs. Students completing high-quality CTE programs often earn higher starting wages than traditional four-year college graduates in certain fields. This is particularly true in skilled trades, healthcare support, and technical specialties.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that many occupations requiring postsecondary certificates or associate degrees will grow faster than the overall job market through 2032. Perkins V funding helps states prepare students for these opportunities.

Getting Involved

While states receive these allocations directly, numerous opportunities exist for local organizations to benefit from Perkins V funding. Community colleges, technical schools, and workforce development organizations often serve as subrecipients of state funds.

Organizations interested in participating should contact their state education agencies early in the planning process. Many states issue requests for proposals or applications for local funding during the summer and fall preceding each program year.

The contact person for questions about this program memorandum is Anu Mathew, who can be reached at octae-formula@dol.gov. State agencies and potential partners should not hesitate to seek clarification about program requirements or application procedures.

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