; (ii) assisting in paying for the cost of related instruction, assessment or licensure fees, or wages during related instruction for program participants; (iii) establishing or expanding partnerships with organizations that assist program participants in accessing supportive services to support recruitment, retention, and completion, including providing access to supplies and equipment necessary to begin the program; or (iv) aligning such program with career pathways and opportunities for advancement along such career pathways. (D) In-demand industry sector or occupation awards for small- and medium-sized businesses An eligible entity that receives funds under section 201 for an activity described in section 201(a)(1)(B)(iii) shall use such funds to encourage participation of small- and medium-sized businesses in a covered apprenticeship program, which may include— (i) providing financial assistance to employers to assist in paying for costs related to the program, such as the costs of training incumbent workers for participation as mentors or employees supervising on-the-job learning; (ii) assisting in paying for the cost of related instruction, assessment or licensure fees, or wages during related instruction for program participants; (iii) providing technical assistance to small- and medium-sized businesses on the program registration process and on leveraging other available funds to support carrying out the program