DENVER – The Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE), through the Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative (COSI), has released the 2026–2027 Career Launch Request for Application, making up to $1.5 million in grant funding available to eligible nonprofit organizations across Colorado.
The Career Launch grant program is designed to strengthen Colorado's talent pipeline by supporting students who demonstrate financial need while encouraging completion of certificates, associate degrees and bachelor's degrees in high-demand career fields. By combining scholarship support with workforce connections, the program helps students complete their education, enter the labor market with less debt and contribute to Colorado's economic growth.
"Colorado's strength depends on developing and retaining talent in every corner of the state," said CDHE Executive Director JB Holston. "Career Launch reflects our commitment to helping students earn valuable credentials, build professional networks and successfully transition into careers that offer economic mobility. By working alongside our nonprofit partners, we're creating pathways that help students succeed while meeting the workforce needs of Colorado's communities and employers."
The grants provide matching scholarship funds to nonprofit organizations that support Colorado students pursuing credentials at public institutions of higher education. Through the program's required 1:1 match, the state investment has the potential to generate up to $3 million in scholarship funding, helping hundreds of students access education and training in fields aligned with Colorado's workforce needs. Participating organizations also connect students with career services, work-based learning opportunities and holistic supports that help ensure successful transitions into the workforce.
Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to attend COSI's virtual Application Launch Session on Monday, July 13, 2026, at 1 p.m. COSI staff will provide an overview of the grant program, review application requirements and answer questions about the application process. Registration for this session is now open. A recording of the session will be posted on the Career Launch website following the event for those unable to attend live.
Application Timeline
- A link to the application portal will be posted on the COSI Career Launch website when it opens on Monday, July 13, 2026.
- Applicants may submit questions through the Career Launch 2026–2027 RFA Questions Form through Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
- Responses will be compiled and published in an official Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document on Thursday, August 20, 2026.
- Completed applications must be submitted by Monday, September 14, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
For more information about the Career Launch grant program, application materials and important dates, visit the COSI Career Launch website.
About the Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative
The Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative was created with the Colorado Department of Higher Education to increase the attainment of postsecondary credentials and degrees for underserved students in Colorado. The project addresses this challenge in two ways: accessibility and affordability. To increase accessibility, COSI funds programs that will help prepare students for postsecondary education, as well as support them through completion. To increase affordability, COSI provides matching funds for community scholarships.
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