U.S. Department of Education launches $15M Innovation Challenge on Talent Marketplaces

As mentioned in the December 12, 2025 press release, the Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education is excited to announce the official launch of the Connecting Talent to Opportunity Challenge on January 13, 2026. 

This $15 million innovation challenge, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education, is a national call to action to accelerate the development of integrated, statewide Talent Marketplaces to strengthen connections among learners and earners, education and training providers, and employers. As we expand these systems, we open more pathways into good jobs, support broader participation in the workforce, and help strengthen our Nation’s economy. 

Join us for our upcoming information session to learn how you can get involved. 
 
Date: January 13, 2026 
Time: 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. ET 
Register here.

If you have questions, contact the Challenge support team at team@cto-challenge.com or visit cto-challenge.com.