[DuPage Foundation](https://dupagefoundation.org)

June 2026 (Full application deadline, projected)

Up to $50,000 per grant; typical range $20,000–$50,000; 1-year projects; both new and existing collaborations funded.

Supports the creation and growth of local early childhood collaborations in DuPage County to expand access to early learning and family support for children birth to age five.

--- ## Description The program funds new and existing early childhood collaborations in DuPage County, Illinois, aiming to ensure that every child from birth to age five is ready to thrive in kindergarten. Grants are intended to help communities build capacity, expand access to high-quality early learning, and connect families—especially those with limited resources—to essential education and support services. The initiative emphasizes sustainable, family-centered solutions and encourages partnerships among school districts, community organizations, childcare providers, and families. Key focus areas include: - Building and operating effective local collaborations - Empowering families/caregivers with child development knowledge and support - Expanding developmental screenings and early intervention referrals - Promoting enrollment in quality early childhood education programs --- ## Due Dates - June 2026 (anticipated/projected full application deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Maximum request per grant: $50,000 - Typical awards range from $20,000 to $50,000 for 1-year projects - Both new and established collaborations are eligible for funding - Funding can be used for seed support (new collaborations) or for expansion and sustainability (existing collaborations) --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be newly formed or established early childhood collaborations located in DuPage County, Illinois. - The lead applicant must be a school district or a nonprofit organization serving young children and families, classified as a public charity under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. - Collaborations must include partnerships with local school district(s), at least three community organizations, childcare providers, and engagement with local families. - Ineligible entities: organizations outside DuPage County, individuals, religious activities (unless secular in nature), endowments, disease-specific organizations, private foundations, private operating foundations, and hospitals (including supporting foundations). --- ## Application Process - Review the most current grant guidelines (to be released March 2026) on the [program page](https://www.dupagefoundation.org/bright-early-dupage). - Contact Barb Szczepaniak, Vice President for Programs, at 630.598.5280 before applying, especially for new collaborations (consultative support is available). - Submit a proposal via the online application portal by the anticipated deadline. - Applications are reviewed by a committee of community volunteers, Foundation trustees, and staff. - Applicants are notified of decisions in August; funds are distributed in early August. --- ## Additional Information - Required outcomes and metrics include: number of collaborative meetings, family engagement events, developmental screenings, referrals for intervention, and enrollment in early childhood programs. - Collaborations are expected to meet at least four times per year and to track impact using the Foundation's Impact Metrics and Work Plan. - For guidance, applicants can review [past grant guidelines](https://www.dupagefoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2025-Bright-Guidelines.pdf), [sample application](https://www.dupagefoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2025-Bright-Application.pdf), and [impact metrics/work plan](https://www.dupagefoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2025-Bright-and-Early-DuPage-Impact-Metrics-and-Work-Plan.pdf). --- ## External Links - [Program Overview & Guidelines](https://www.dupagefoundation.org/bright-early-dupage) - [Sample Application (PDF)](https://www.dupagefoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2025-Bright-Application.pdf) - [Impact Metrics & Work Plan (PDF)](https://www.dupagefoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2025-Bright-and-Early-DuPage-Impact-Metrics-and-Work-Plan.pdf) - [Recent Grantees](https://www.dupagefoundation.org/our-grantees/bright-early-dupage-grants/) - [Nonprofit Resources](https://www.dupagefoundation.org/nonprofit-resources/) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Title | Email | Phone | |---------------------|----------------------------|--------------------------------|--------------| | Barb Szczepaniak | Vice President for Programs | [barb@dupagefoundation.org](mailto:barb@dupagefoundation.org) | 630.598.5280 | For general inquiries, see the [DuPage Foundation contact page](https://www.dupagefoundation.org/who-we-are/contact.html).

Bright & Early DuPage Grant Program

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