Tribal Early Learning Fund (TELF), Round 3

October 21, 2024
Children exploring in forest.

DCYF is excited to share that a third round of Tribal Early Learning funding (TELF) is available to tribal early learning programs and tribal-serving organizations. This funding opportunity supports tribal children, prenatal to five, in early learning programs across Washington state in a culturally appropriate and inclusive manner.

Applications for the third round of funding are due by 5 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 2, 2024.

For information and to apply, visit the Office of Tribal Relations webpage. 

The following early learning programs are eligible to apply:

  • Category 1: Tribal Nations ($150,000)
    • Tribal Head Start 
    • Tribal Early Head Start
    • Tribal Early Childhood Education & Assistance Program (ECEAP), including Tribal Contractors and Subcontractors
    • Tribal Early ECEAP, including Tribal Contractors and Subcontractors
    • Tribal Childcare Centers
  • Category 2: Tribal Nations, Recognized American Indian Organizations (RAIO’s), Tribal/Native Serving Organizations ($75,000)
    • Tribal Child Care Centers
    •  Tribally Licensed Child Care providers 
    • Recognized American Indian Organizations (RAIOs) with an early learning program
    • Tribal/Native Serving Organization with an early learning program
    • Certified/Certified for Payment only Tribal Child Care providers
    • Sub-Category 2: 
      • Tribal Home Visiting Programs ($50,000)
      • Family, Friends, and Neighbors (FFN) providers ($5,000)
  • Category 3: Community Organization, State or Certified Child Care providers that serve tribal children ($50,000)
    • ECEAP Contractors & Subcontractors serving Tribal children
    • Early ECEAP Contractors & Subcontractors serving Tribal children
    • State Licensed or Certified Child Care providers serving tribal children
    • Sub-Category 3:
      • Home Visiting programs serving Tribal children ($50,000)

The Office of Tribal Relations will be offering technical assistance office hours to assist with the application process and to answer any questions:

  • Wed., Oct. 23, 2024, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. | Zoom Link
  • Wed., Oct. 30, 2024, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. | Zoom Link
  • Wed., Nov. 6, 2024, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. | Zoom Link

For questions, please contact Apolonio (polo) Hernandez, Tribal Early Learning Fund Specialist, at apolonio.hernandez@dcyf.wa.gov or (509) 564-5027.