Adult Education Innovation Program

Promising Innovations

The Adult Education Innovation Program represents a $15 million investment by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) to strengthen adult learning across the state. In partnership with TalentFirst, this initiative supports a network of grantees advancing new approaches to increase enrollment, persistence, and completion in adult education. Each funded effort is designed to test and scale evidence-driven solutions that better serve adult learners—especially those pursuing English language proficiency or a high school diploma or equivalency—while improving access, equity, and long-term outcomes.

Grants for Progress

Adult education providers and community colleges funded under Section 107 are bringing demonstrated experience serving adult learners and implementing targeted strategies to expand access, strengthen engagement, and improve outcomes for the populations they serve. Programs are delivered in collaboration with eligible fiscal agents, enabling organizations to align resources and effectively carry out adult education innovation efforts.

Section 107a Grant Recipients

  • Bay-Arenac ISD
  • Calhoun ISD
  • Detroit Public Schools
  • Eaton RESA
  • Hillsdale Community Schools
  • Iosco RESA
  • Kent ISD
  • Livingston ESA
  • Menominee ISD
  • Mott Community College
  • Northwest Education Services
  • Novi Community School District
  • Romulus Community Schools
  • Royal Oak Schools
  • Southgate Community School District
  • Tuscola ISD

What's Innovative?

Innovations underway across Michigan include:

  • Career navigators
  • Retention specialists
  • Transportation support
  • Computer access for students
  • Learning system innovations

And more.