State-Wide: Early Care and Education Systems-Building

The Couch Family Foundation is a private philanthropic organization dedicated to catalyzing positive change in the lives of children and families, particularly those who are most vulnerable. The foundation’s strategic priorities emphasize early childhood systems-building and local community support, with a particular focus on the state of New Hampshire and specific communities in Vermont and Massachusetts. The grant opportunity under the “State-Wide: Early Care and Education Systems-Building” initiative is targeted exclusively at supporting the development of a high-quality, equitable, and sustainable early care and education (ECE) system in New Hampshire. The foundation aims to collaborate with both public and private stakeholders to bolster advocacy, policy development, leadership infrastructure, and systems coordination across the state. Grants in this category support three main strategies: advancing advocacy and grassroots coalition-building for equitable ECE policies; enhancing systemic support at local, regional, and state levels to better equip ECE programs and professionals; and supporting research and innovation that contributes to scalable and sustainable ECE models. These efforts are designed to improve access, quality, and workforce capacity in the ECE sector. The Couch Family Foundation does not accept unsolicited applications for this priority area. All proposals must be submitted by invitation only. Prospective applicants are encouraged to reach out directly to foundation staff to discuss their potential alignment with the initiative before any formal invitation or application is extended. For other related priorities—specifically the “Cherished Communities” initiative targeting the Upper Valley region and Martha’s Vineyard—grants may support early childhood services, community health, and racial equity initiatives. These grants are more broadly accessible and do accept first-time applicants through an online application portal. To be eligible, applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or have a fiscal sponsor with that designation. The foundation does not fund individuals, religious entities, or K-12 schools, though nonprofits supporting in-school initiatives for child well-being may be considered. Grant types include general operating, project, capital, and event sponsorships—with prior staff consultation required for the latter two. Application deadlines for 2025 are divided into three funding cycles: January 15 to March 31, April 1 to June 30, and July 1 to September 26. Notification of awards is provided in June, September, or December depending on the application cycle. All applications must be submitted through the foundation’s online portal. For further guidance or to initiate contact, interested parties can reach the Couch Family Foundation via email at info@couchfoundation.org or by phone at 603-643-3052.