Innovative Approaches to Literacy 84.215G
This grant funds innovative programs that improve literacy skills for children from birth to 12th grade in low-income communities by supporting school libraries, early literacy services, and regular access to quality books.
Funder: Office of Elementary and Secondary Education
Due Dates: May 8, 2026 (Notice of Intent) | June 9, 2026 (Application) | August 7, 2026 (Intergovernmental Review)
Funding Amounts: ~$16.8 million total; 25–35 awards; typical award $375,000–$750,000 over up to 5 years; avg. $500,000
Summary: Supports innovative, evidence-based literacy programs for children from birth through grade 12 in high-need, low-income communities.
Key Information: No cost sharing required; strong focus on serving LEAs with ≥20% poverty; national nonprofits eligible if serving qualifying LEAs.
Description
This federal grant program, administered by the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE), funds high-quality, evidence-based literacy initiatives aimed at improving literacy skills for children and students from birth through 12th grade in high-need local educational agencies (LEAs) and schools. The program encourages innovative approaches, including enhancing school library programs, providing early literacy interventions (such as pediatric literacy programs), and distributing high-quality books to children in low-income communities. Projects must coordinate with school libraries and be endorsed or designated by a Governor or chief State education official.
