The National Center on Early Childhood Development, Teaching, and Learning (NC ECDTL) funding opportunity, issued by the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) under the Office of Head Start (OHS), supports efforts to enhance early childhood education. Approximately $8,800,000 will be awarded for the operation of the NC ECDTL, a part of the national and regional OHS Training and Technical Assistance (TTA) System. The center’s primary mission is to provide evidence-based training and technical assistance to Head Start (HS) and Early Head Start (EHS) programs, focusing on professional development to improve outcomes for children and families.

The NC ECDTL will specialize in fostering developmentally appropriate teaching and home visiting practices, promoting inclusive play-based learning, and addressing the cultural, linguistic, and developmental needs of children from birth to age five. Key areas of focus include implementing research-informed curricula, utilizing developmental screening tools, and supporting the domains of the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF). The center will also develop resources and strategies to enhance social and emotional development through responsive adult-child interactions, positive behavioral supports, and inclusive environments.

Eligible applicants include Native American tribal organizations, independent school districts, public and private higher education institutions, nonprofits (both 501(c)(3) and non-501(c)(3)), for-profit organizations (excluding small businesses), special district governments, and faith-based organizations. Consortia applications, led by a primary applicant with substantive involvement, are also allowed. Individuals and foreign entities are not eligible.

The project period begins September 30, 2025, following the estimated award date of August 15, 2025. Applications are due by June 2, 2025, and must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov. The opportunity does not require cost-sharing or matching funds. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact the grantor for detailed guidance or clarification.

This center will work alongside three other National Centers under OHS, focusing on areas such as health and safety, fiscal operations, and community engagement. The collaborative effort aims to ensure comprehensive support for children and families in the Head Start community across the nation. For further details, including links to related opportunities, visit the ACF website or contact the grant administrators.