480-10-3704 Early Childhood Block Grant: Early Childhood-PFA/PFAE Training and Technical Assistance
🏛 Illinois Department of Early Childhood
✓ Free, no account · Source: Illinois GATA Catalog (CSFA) · Last verified Jun 1, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for organizations providing professional development and technical assistance to Illinois early childhood programs. Applicants must have demonstrated expertise in Preschool for All (PFA) and Preschool for All Expansion (PFAE) programming.
The grant funds comprehensive learning services including trainings, webinars, coaching, and technical assistance. Eligible activities support educators and administrators in PFA/PFAE grant-funded programs across Illinois.
Organizations should be prepared to deliver statewide services. Prior experience with early childhood professional development is strongly preferred. This is a state grant administered through Illinois GATA.
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Program description
To fund a qualified applicant to provide comprehensive professional learning opportunities that support best practices in Preschool for All and Preschool for All Expansion grant-funded programs, to include trainings, webinars, program supports, professional learning communities, coaching, resources, technical assistance, and other services as determined by ISBE. Administered by the Illinois Department of Early Childhood via the Illinois GATA Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA 480-10-3704).
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Completed state application form via Illinois GATA Catalog
- Program narrative describing services and delivery methods
- Organizational capacity documentation
- Evidence of prior PFA/PFAE experience
- Budget and budget narrative
- Letters of support from partner programs
Program contact
- 👤 Jenny Metcalf
- 📧 jmetcalf@isbe.net
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Organizations with expertise in early childhood professional development and Preschool for All programming. Applicants typically have experience serving Illinois-based programs.
What services does this grant fund?
Trainings, webinars, coaching, professional learning communities, and technical assistance for PFA/PFAE-funded educators. Resource development and program supports are also eligible.
When is the deadline?
The deadline is September 30, 2026. Check the Illinois GATA Catalog for exact submission dates and any rolling deadline details.
What makes a competitive application?
Demonstrate clear experience in early childhood PFA programming. Show a detailed plan for statewide service delivery. Include strong evaluation methods for measuring educator impact.
What's the funding range?
Total available is $1,900,000. Contact the Illinois Department of Early Childhood for specific award amounts per applicant.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Highlight your organization's prior work with Illinois Preschool for All programs. Specific examples strengthen your case.
- Develop a detailed service delivery plan addressing multiple content areas (coaching, webinars, resources).
- Include letters of support from PFA/PFAE program directors or educators you've served.
- Show how you'll reach diverse program types and geographic regions across Illinois.
- Emphasize evaluation methods that track educator outcomes and program improvement.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Failing to demonstrate specific experience with Illinois Preschool for All or PFAE programs. Submitting a generic professional development proposal without tailoring to PFA/PFAE priorities. Underestimating the scope of statewide service delivery required.
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