which may include employers, workforce development organizations, industry associations, labor groups (including joint labor-management organizations), small businesses owned or controlled by underrepresented individuals such as women, minorities, or veterans, and education and training providers with national reach. (B) Serving programs in a local or regional setting An eligible entity applying to carry out the purpose described in subsection (a)(1)(C)(iii) for the development or expansion of covered apprenticeship programs shall include as part of the application a description of how such entity will— (i) engage employers, especially small- and medium-sized businesses, in the formation or ongoing development of industry or sector partnerships and covered apprenticeship programs