Expansion of ECEAP services in communities across the state is occurring yearly until 2026-2027. By that time, the State Legislature has determined that “any eligible child shall be entitled to be enrolled” in ECEAP (RCW 43.216.556 (5).
DCYF is working to integrate ECLIPSE services with Early ECEAP/ECEAP programming for children who are referred to ECEAP by DCYF social workers, primary care physicians, public health nurses, or Department of Social and Health Services social workers who have identified children who have experienced Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).
This section includes documents related to the Request for Application and an overview of ECEAP that can be used to initiate conversations with potential subcontractors.
Prospective ECEAP Contractors
DCYF is releasing an Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) Interest Survey for prospective contractors. The purpose of the survey is to gather information regarding ECEAP needs and challenges in 2025-26. Responses will help us to better understand the early learning landscape in Washington and inform this legislative session.
This interest survey will also help you better understand ECEAP requirements and self-assess your readiness to contract with DCYF to deliver ECEAP services.
If you feel you will be ready to serve ECEAP children and families in the coming year, this survey also provides an opportunity for you to estimate your need for ECEAP slots for School Year 2025-26.
If you have questions or concerns, please send them to dcyf.eceap@dcyf.wa.gov.
The 2024-25 Comprehensive Early Learning Request for Application (RFA) is now CLOSED.
The 2025-26 RFA is planned to open in early winter. More information coming soon.
During an Open RFA, Minimum Qualifications and Requirements
In order for an application to be reviewed and scored, an Applicant must:
- Be licensed to do business in the state of Washington.
- Plan to serve a minimum of 75 slots, including existing ECEAP slots, B-3 ECEAP, Head Start slots, tribally funded preschool slots, and slots requested through this application.
- Exception: Current ECEAP contractors are exempt from this requirement.
- Exception: Tribal sovereign nations’ application may also be considered if slot totals are under 75 slots.
- Be a current ECEAP or Early ECEAP Contractor if applying for ECLIPSE-layered funds.
- Submit a completed application in accordance with the RFA.
- Please note: New organizations, including licensed child care centers and family child care homes, interested in providing less than 75 preschool slots or only part of ECEAP services, such as a preschool classroom experience, should coordinate with a current or prospective ECEAP contractor in their vicinity to discuss the possibility of becoming an ECEAP subcontractor working under that ECEAP contractor. Please do not apply through this survey if applying for fewer than 75 slots. You may email dcyf.eceap@dcyf.wa.gov for more information.