MDRC and Ascendium Education Group is seeking proposals from researchers and sectoral training providers to participate in the Sector Training Evidence-Building Project (STEP), a new effort to invest in the next generation of evidence-building for sectoral training programs led by nonprofit organizations. STEP will select, fund, and support projects that will advance high-quality research to produce evidence that is relevant to both individual providers and the field at large.

Grantees will form partnerships between researchers and sector program providers to build evidence in two areas: (1) determining the key elements needed to implement or expand access to effective sector programs and (2) assessing the effectiveness of sector programs that have not been rigorously evaluated and can expand understanding of the sector model.

Grants will be funded for three to five years, during which grantees will participate in a community of practice managed by MDRC. Funding awards will vary from $250,000 to $2,000,000 based on the length and proposed research methods of the project. Awards will be made in spring 2025.

How to Apply

MDRC is currently accepting applications from partnerships between researchers and sector program providers. Follow these steps to apply:

1. Review the STEP Request for Proposals (RFP) to learn more about STEP and the application process. Review the example research questions to get ideas for possible projects to propose.
2. Watch an informational webinar and review the webinar’s slides.
3. Submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) by completing this Microsoft form by November 15, 2024. View the questions you will be asked in the LOI.

Check out the FAQ to see answers to questions submitted during the STEP webinar and sent to the MDRC team email. Reach out to STEP@mdrc.org with additional questions.