Things have changed in the WIA world since I got $14,000 from them almost 2 years ago to get a type rating.
It is a fedral program administered by individual states and the money allocated does vary. Usually, it's first come, first served until funds dry up for the fiscal year. Also, there is NO guarantee that the same state will continue the following year.
You may also want to note the following BIG change:
I got mine relatively easy after being laid off in Nov 2002. Was assigned a counselor and had to "sell" my case on why I should receive the funds. Since, at that tiem there was plenty of money in the pot (NV) and I was quick off the mark, I got the funding. It goes directly to the training organization. Having done that, I went to school, aced the course, got the rating, applied to various companies - then nadda! Not even a single interview in more than 9 months.
Then, about 12 months later and still on unemployment, I was solicited by another agency eager to "help out". I leveled with them that I had already received funding but no job. They then told me that the system had changed quite drastically. Basically, when the money ran out, the DoL did a survey on how many pilots who took advantage of the scheme actually were successful in getting a job. It must have been a VERY low figure because they curtailed the program whereby you now needed a letter from a potential employer to say they would hire you if you got that certain rating. In other words, the door was shut. If no one even looked at you when you were current with an additional rating, why would they write lots of letters saying maybe?
Of course, things might have changed by now, for the better perhaps. Best bet is to continue asking questions and do your research. One thing is for sure. It ain't as easy as it used to be. That's aviation for you I guess...... Good luck anyway.