Bright & Early DuPage Grant Program
Forecasted
Bright & Early DuPage Grant Program supports local early childhood collaborations, funding family education and access to services so DuPage County children enter kindergarten ready to learn.
Funder: DuPage Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2027 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $50,000 per collaboration; 2026 grant period: August 2026–June 2027
Summary: Supports new and established DuPage County early childhood collaborations that help children from birth to age five enter kindergarten ready to learn.
Key Information: Qualifying agencies are school districts or 501(c)(3) public charities serving young children and families.
Description
Bright & Early DuPage is a DuPage Foundation initiative supporting the creation and growth of local early childhood collaborations. Launched in 2012, it brings together schools, healthcare providers, early childhood agencies, and families to help children from birth to age five start kindergarten ready to learn and thrive.
The program prioritizes collaborations that identify local needs and pursue sustainable, family-centered solutions, especially for families with limited resources. Supported work builds community capacity, expands access to high-quality early learning, and connects families with education and support services. Activities include family education on child development and parent-child relationships, help navigating early childhood systems, developmental screenings and early intervention referrals, and increased enrollment in publicly funded early childhood programs.
