Adult Education and Literacy Act

Request for Applications (Open)

The Adult Education and Literacy Act (SB23-007), or AELA, requires providers to offer eligible adults basic education in literacy, digital literacy, and numeracy that leads to additional skills acquisition, a high school diploma or an equivalency certificate, postsecondary credential attainment, and employment. The act describes services that providers may offer to eligible adults, which include in-person or online instruction, the development of learning plans, coaching and mentorship. Eligible providers must apply as part of a workforce development partnership or education attainment partnership. The intended funding period is July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2029. All applications will be submitted through GAINS.

 AELA Grant Program Timeline

• Nov. 12, 2024: AELA Informational Webinar
  • 2025-29 AELA Informational Webinar PDF
  • 2025-29 AELA Informational Webinar Recording
• Nov. 25, 2024: AELA RFA Technical Assistance
  • 2025-29 AELA RFA TA Webinar PDF
  • 2025-29 AELA RFA TA Webinar Recording
  • Webinar Recording Revisions:
    • Slide 17 was labeled Appendix B and has been corrected to Attachment B.
    • Slide 19 was labeled Step 4 and has been corrected to Step 5.
    • Slide 20 was labeled Step 5 and has been corrected to Step 6.
• Dec. 2-20, 2024: Intent to Apply
• Jan. 6-March 31, 2025: AELA RFA open in GAINS
• March 31, 2025: Applications due in GAINS no later than 6 p.m. MT
• July 2025: AELA funding

AELA Frequently Asked Questions 

3/28/25 Update: The AELA FAQ Submission Form closed on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 5 p.m. MT. No additional questions will be taken by form or email. 

AELA Frequently Asked Questions

AELA Resources

2025-26 AELA Assurances