; and (ii) individuals with barriers to employment. (3) Considerations In selecting eligible entities to receive a grant under this Act, the Secretary shall— (A) ensure— (i) equitable geographic and demographic diversity, including rural and urban areas; and (ii) that selected eligible entities will serve areas where direct care, or a related occupation, is an in-demand industry sector or occupation; and (B) give priority to eligible entities proposing to predominantly serve the individuals described in clauses (i) and (ii) of paragraph (2)(L). (b) Consultation The Secretary shall encourage each eligible entity receiving a grant under this Act, in developing and carrying out a project, to consult with— (1) institutions of higher education; (2) the State Apprenticeship Agency recognized under the Act of August 16, 1937 (commonly known as the National Apprenticeship Act ; 50 Stat. 664, chapter 663; 29 U.S.C. 50 et seq.), for the State or region to be served by the eligible entity or, if no such agency has been recognized in the State or region, the Office of Apprenticeship of the Department of Labor; and (3) one-stop centers. 6. Uses of funds; supplement, not supplant (a) Uses of funds (1) In general Each eligible entity receiving a grant under this Act shall use such funds to carry out at least 1 project or to continue activities commenced prior to receipt of such grant that— (A) develop and implement a strategy for the recruitment, retention, or advancement of direct care workers, which includes the activities described in section 5(a)(2)