The Washington State Department of Commerce administers the 2025–2027 Early Learning Facilities (ELF) Program to support the expansion and maintenance of early learning infrastructure across the state. The program seeks to increase access to high-quality early childhood education by funding construction, renovation, or acquisition projects that create or preserve licensed child care slots for income-qualified families.
Through a competitive process, the ELF Expansion and Maintenance grants provide capital funding to eligible early learning facilities including ECEAP and WCCC providers, tribal nations, local governments, housing developers, public school districts, and nonprofit organizations. Funds must be used for licensable child care spaces that serve children participating in state-subsidized care programs. All grantees must commit to operating a licensed early learning program for at least ten years post-project completion.
The 2025–2027 grant cycle opens on September 1, 2025, at 7:00 a.m. and closes on October 31, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Applications must be submitted via ZoomGrants. Projects must not be complete at the time of application, and only reimbursable costs are eligible. Award notifications are anticipated by early 2026, with contracts initiated soon after.
Awards may cover pre-design, pre-development, construction, or renovation costs, depending on project type. Family homes are only eligible for maintenance grants unless converting to centers. Applicants must provide site control documentation, comply with prevailing wage, and potentially meet LEED or green building standards. Grants are typically secured with real estate instruments for awards exceeding $250,000.
Commerce will assign a program manager to assist grantees through pre-contracting, compliance, and reimbursement. Eligible costs include design, engineering, construction, permits, safety systems, and limited capital equipment. Grantees must provide regular updates and comply with state monitoring and reporting requirements throughout the grant period and the 10-year commitment timeline.
Projects must not be complete at application time. Awards are reimbursable only. A 10-year operational commitment is required. LEED or equivalent green building compliance may be required. Contact ELF staff early to confirm eligibility and scope.
