2026 Child Care Grant
Forecasted
2026 Child Care Grant supports Santa Barbara County early care providers and service organizations with workforce, operations and family engagement projects to strengthen quality care for children ages 0–5.
Funder: Santa Barbara Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $15,000 for up to one year from the award date
Summary: Supports projects strengthening early care and education providers and services for children ages 0–5 in Santa Barbara County.
Key Information: Applicants need 501(c)(3) status or a qualifying fiscal sponsor and a valid EIN.
Description
The Santa Barbara Foundation’s Child Care Grant supports quality early care and education and the direct services that enable its success. Part of the foundation’s Child Care Initiative, it builds organizational capacity and strengthens Santa Barbara County’s child care system for children from birth through age five. The program addresses shortages in available care, particularly for infants and toddlers, and aligns with the Santa Barbara County Child Care Facilities Master Plan’s goal of creating 3,000 new licensed spaces by June 2030.
Projects focus on workforce pathways and skill development, organizational development and business sustainability, or family engagement and inclusive practice. Supported work may strengthen educator training and retention, leadership and operations, facility planning, family relationships, and equitable access for underserved and high-need populations.
