Early Childhood Iowa Area Funding

Iowa Code chapter 256I

Vision

Every Child, Beginning at Birth, Will be Healthy and Successful

Early Childhood Iowa

Early Childhood Iowa (ECI) was founded on the premise that communities and state government can work together to improve the well-being of our youngest children. ECI's efforts unite agencies, organizations and community partners to speak with a shared voice to support, strengthen and meet the needs of children 0-5 years of age and their families.

It is believed that individuals in local communities working together can identify and implement the best means for attaining desired results. The role of the State is to be a partner to support and facilitate growth in community responsibility.

State funding for Early Childhood Iowa (and its predecessor, Community Empowerment) has continued since its inception. These resources allow local ECI area boards to: expand home visitation and parent education; create quality improvement activities for child care and preschool providers, including professional development and training; increase the availability of infant, shift care and inclusive child care; and increase access to child care and preschools for children living in low income families.

Eligible Applicants:

Early Childhood Iowa Area (ECIA) Boards recognized under Iowa Code chapter 256I are eligible to apply.  The Iowa Legislature annually appropriates state funding through the Education Appropriation bill and the Health and Human Services Appropriation bill.  Appropriated funding is distributed to ECI area boards using formulas determined by the Early Childhood Iowa State Board.  Tool G, https://earlychildhood.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2021-06/Tool%20G%20approved%206%204%2021.pdf, provides general information on the funding formulas and parameters and use of School Ready and Early Childhood funds.