The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) is accepting applications for the Early Head Start (EHS) Expansion and Early Head Start-Child Care (EHS-CC) Partnership Grants, under funding opportunity number HHS-2025-ACF-OHS-HP-0125. This funding aims to provide high-quality, comprehensive services to low-income infants, toddlers, and their families in selected communities across nine U.S. states. Funding is designed to support either the expansion of existing Early Head Start programs or the creation of EHS-CC partnerships, which integrate EHS services with local child care providers. Approximately $29.2 million is available for up to 20 awards, with an average project award of $1 million per budget period, subject to a 60-month project term starting July 1, 2025. Applications are due by January 6, 2025.

The purpose of this grant is to enhance early childhood education and support services for young children and families facing economic disadvantages. EHS-CC Partnerships aim to expand access to full-day, full-year child care, especially for working families, by integrating EHS standards with local child care providers. The program's objectives include providing a range of developmental, educational, health, and nutrition services that are critical to preparing children for school readiness and long-term success. A special emphasis is placed on building a sustainable infrastructure within community childcare settings to continue high-quality services.

Eligible applicants include public and private non-profit organizations, including faith-based and community-based organizations, as well as for-profit entities, as long as they can provide EHS services to eligible families. Applicants must apply within designated service areas and ensure that at least 10% of enrollment serves children with disabilities. Additional eligibility considerations include community need, existing relationships with local child care providers, and demonstration of the organizational capacity to meet Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS).

To apply, applicants must submit a comprehensive application package that includes the SF-424 form, budget details, proof of eligibility, project description, and various certifications. The application must be electronically submitted via Grants.gov, formatted according to ACF specifications, and include a detailed plan addressing community need, project objectives, staffing and compensation, and program infrastructure. Page limitations apply, and adherence to formatting guidelines is required. Applicants proposing EHS-CC partnerships must outline plans for child care partner engagement and provide specific budgets for anticipated start-up and operational expenses.

Applications will be evaluated on criteria including community need, program design, staffing, infrastructure, and cost-effectiveness. Priority consideration is given to proposals that address underserved areas, particularly Qualified Opportunity Zones, and that demonstrate readiness for prompt implementation. ACF may conduct pre-award discussions to clarify any details related to budgets or service delivery before finalizing awards.

Award announcements are expected after application reviews and financial assessments are completed. Recipients will be required to submit regular performance and financial reports to maintain compliance. Additional information and resources for applicants are available on the ACF website and through Grants.gov.