Northwest Kansas Early Childhood Sustainability Grant Fund

The Northwest Kansas Early Childhood Sustainability Grant Fund supports nonprofit childcare facilities operating within the 26-county service area of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation in Northwest Kansas. This fund is administered by the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation in collaboration with the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, the State of Kansas Children’s Cabinet, and the Patterson Family Foundation. The primary aim of the fund is to help sustain the operations of qualified nonprofit early education centers and licensed childcare homes that meet specific state standards and operational criteria. This permanently endowed grant program provides financial assistance to nonprofit childcare facilities facing budget shortfalls or unforeseen circumstances that could result in the closure of the facility, the shutdown of classrooms, or a significant reduction in the standard of care offered. The fund is not intended to support projects related to facility expansion, marketing efforts, special events, staff professional development, or organizations aiming to re-grant funds to individual childcare providers. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations or equivalent entities such as churches, governmental bodies, or public schools, and must operate licensed childcare centers not located within a provider's home. The facilities must maintain good standing with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), accept DCF subsidy payments, operate within specified staffing ratios, and serve children from 2 to 6 weeks of age up to 6 years old. Operations must be active for a minimum of 6 hours and less than 24 hours per day. Grants are reviewed on a quarterly cycle with submission deadlines of January 31, April 30, July 31, and October 31. Awards are announced in early March, May, September, and December. Applicants are expected to complete a grant report within 30 days of project completion or within a maximum of 12 months. A downloadable project budget spreadsheet must be completed and submitted with the application. The application process includes reviewing eligibility criteria, completing the grant application, and submitting the required documentation. Assistance is available via email or phone through the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation for those seeking support or clarification during the application process.

Review eligibility and prepare budget in advance. Ensure facility is not home-based and meets KDHE standards.