Local institutions such as community-based organizations, schools, and Jobs Corps Centers ran the JOBSTART programs using funds from the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA). Each program was required to provide — or provide access to — the following services:
 

• Instruction in basic academic skills that allowed participants to progress at their own pace toward goals related to their reading, communication, and basic computational skills
   
• Occupational skills training that combined theory and hands-on experience to prepare participants for jobs in high-growth occupations
   
• Training-related support services, including assistance with transportation and child care, counseling, and, where possible, supports such as work-readiness training and financial incentives contingent on program performance
   
• Job placement assistance to help participants find training-related jobs

The evaluation of JOBSTART concentrated on four areas of inquiry:
 

• Recruitment. Could local agencies generate interest in this alternative education and training program among members of its target population?
   
• Implementation. Could sites implement a package of services that addressed participants’ needs while working within the constraints of JTPA?
   
• Participation. Were young people willing and able to invest their time and effort to participate in the program?
   
• Effects. Did the program increase high school diploma and GED receipt, employment, and earnings and reduce welfare receipt?