Build the Future Talent Pipeline with Pre-Apprenticeships
Pre-Apprenticeship is a powerful strategy designed to prepare individuals to enter and succeed in a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP). By bridging related instruction with hands-on, simulated work experiences, pre-apprenticeship programs create a talent pipeline for South Dakota’s high-demand industries.
A high-quality pre-apprenticeship program includes a documented partnership with an established Registered Apprenticeship Program to ensure a clear pathway for graduates.
Start Today SD Pre-Apprenticeship Application Office Hours & FAQ Session
Interested in applying for the Start Today SD Pre-Apprenticeship Application? Join us for an open office hours session to learn more about the application process, eligibility requirements, timeline, and program expectations.
This informal session is designed for prospective applicants who have questions before submitting their application. Participants are welcome to join at any time during the session to ask questions and receive guidance from program staff.
Date: November 16, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Central Time/ 10:00 AM- 12:00 PM Mountain Time
Audience: Prospective Pre-apprenticeship Applicants and Partners
Format: Open Q&A / Office Hours (drop in anytime)
Whether you’re just beginning your application or putting the finishing touches on it, we’re here to help answer your questions and support your next step toward a pre-apprenticeship opportunity.
For School Districts: Funding Application Now Open!
Are you looking to add pre-apprenticeship opportunities in your district?
The South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) is accepting applications for a new competitive funding pilot.
DLR is offering up to five (5) competitive incentives of up to $30,000 per successful application for school districts to establish endorsed pre-apprenticeship programs. Selected districts will receive dedicated technical assistance and participate in a collaborative pilot cohort to design and operationalize their pathways.
Target Launch Date: Cohort programs will launch by Fall 2027.
Eligibility: Open to South Dakota public school districts, school-affiliated student chapters, and school-led CTE programs (school district administrative sign-off is mandatory).
Program Models:
Option A
Option A – Existing Sponsor Partnership: Partner with a business that is (a registered apprenticeship sponsor. Funding is split 2/3 and 1/3 ($20,000 to the school district / $10,000 to the employer partner).
Option B
District-Led Model: The school district acts as the sponsor and employer (e.g., IT, maintenance, early childhood education). Funding of $30,000 goes entirely to the school district.
Estimated District Time Commitment:
Planning Phase (January to April 2027): Your designated project coordinator can expect to spend approximately 7-10 hours per month on program development. This includes attending one 60-minute virtual cohort meeting with DLR each month, meeting with your partner employer to finalize your MOU and the program plan, and working with counselors on student schedules.
Launch Phase (Fall 2027): Ongoing time focuses on checking in with students, coordinating with the workplace mentor, and submitting enrollment verifications.
Flexible Support: Remember, the incentive funding is designed offset this planning time.
How to Apply:
Review the Guide: Partnership Funding Allocation Guide (PDF)
Submit Application via Email: Download the Pre-Apprenticeship Funding Application (PDF), fill it out, and email the completed application to starttoday@state.sd.us.
Key Dates & Deadlines:
Questions Due: Friday, Nov. 20, 2026
Application Submission Deadline: Monday, Nov. 30, 2026
Notification of Successful Applications: Friday, Dec. 11, 2026
Framework & Milestone 1 Deadline: Friday, April 30, 2027
Student Cohort Launch & Milestone 2 Deadline: Friday, Dec. 31, 2027
Pilot Goals & Outcomes
Every participating district establishes a formal, multi-year partnership agreement (MOU) with a local business sponsor (Option A) or creates a sustainable on-campus workforce pathway (Option B).
Establish and launch a pre-apprenticeship for the 2027/2028 school year.
Participating students complete a structured pre-apprenticeship training that connects directly to a Registered Apprenticeship Program, opening doors to high-demand careers, dual credits, or advanced standing in established pathways.
Questions?
Please direct all questions regarding the application process, eligibility, or requirements to starttoday@state.sd.us prior to Nov. 20, 2026.
Questions will be compiled and answered in a public Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document posted directly on this page.