Apply for the 2025-2027 Kindergarten Readiness Partnership & Innovation Grant

This grant opportunity is open to non-profit organizations (501(c)3, etc.), governmental entities (cities, schools, etc.), faith-based organizations and child care providers serving Washington County residents. Applicants may apply in partnership with a fiscal sponsor agency if needed.

Costs associated with "inherently religious" activities are NOT allowed under this funding. This is defined as religious worship, instruction, proselytization, or any activities or practices that are directly tied to a specific religious belief.

If you are unsure if your organization is eligible, please contact us at kpi_grants@washingtoncountyor.gov

Yes, projects must be aligned with at least one of the listed Focus Areas AND must focus on one or more of the priority populations.
Additionally, activities should be part of a program or series. One time-events or activities will not be funded. Projects must seek to serve the same population of families, caregivers, etc. throughout the program period.

The performance period and window for eligible expenses will be July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2027.

The application opens May 6th, 2025 and may be submitted any time before closing on June 8th, 2025. ELWC suggests reading of the FAQ and watching the recorded webinar before submitting materials.

The application submission deadline is June 8th at 10:00pm PT

To be considered applications must include:

• Complete KPI Grant Application Link
• Complete KPI Budget Form

An organization can only be the lead applicant for one proposal. However, there is no limit to how many proposals an organization may commit to in partnership.

ELWC staff will provide confirmation of completed grant application submissions only if applications are submitted at least 48-hours in advance of the application deadline.

Grantees will be contacted to discuss the intent to award before July 1st, 2025. Public announcement will be made in July 2025.

Yes, ELWC will notify all organizations who applied about final determination. There will be opportunity to receive feedback on the grant proposal, if desired.

The maximum allowable grant award is $150,000. Grant scoring will not be impacted by budget size. However, given anticipated number of applicants and awards, high-cost proposals may be impacted by award reductions.

Yes, you may blend or braid KPI funding with outside sources of funding to support and/or expand your program.

Per funding requirements, the following are non-allowable expenses:

• Funds may not take the place of/or replace funding for Preschool Promise slots or any other services the organization currently provides as part of the organizational service structure. Therefore, this funding may only be used to expand capacity and-or develop new innovative strategies to support KPI activities.
• Requested indirect costs may NOT exceed 15% of total direct costs.
• Funding may not be used to support "inherently religious" activities. This is defined as religious worship, instruction, proselytization, or any activities or practices that are directly tied to a specific religious belief.

An organization MUST provide proof of insurance for the following types and coverage amounts listed below. Additional details on these requirements may be found on the KPI Insurance Coverage Document LINK to the file

• General Liability
  • $1,000,000 per occurrence
  • $2,000,000 annual aggregate
• Automobile Liability
  • $1,000,000 per combined single limit per accident
• Professional Liability
  • $1,000,000 per occurrence
  • $2,000,000 annual aggregate
• Physical Abuse and Molestation (if direct care of children is provided)
  • $1,000,000 per occurrence
  • $2,000,000 annual aggregate

Yes, but proof of insurance must be provided no later than 10 business days following the receipt of the intent to award notification

The State of Oregon and Washington County policies require proof of insurance. Applicants that are unable to obtain and provide adequate insurance will not be considered for award.

Yes. All childcare providers participating in this program are required to show proof of successfully passing a background check. Additional information regarding background checks for the state of Oregon can be found here: https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/business-services/chc/Pages/index.aspx, and https://oregonearlylearning.com/providers-educators/providers-educatorscbr/

Early Learning Washington County is a partnership between the United Way of the Columbia-Willamette and Washington County Health and Human Services. The contracting and administration of this grant will be managed by Washington County, Health and Human Services.

Portland State University is contracted by the Early Learning Division of Oregon to provide program evaluation for the grant funds. Applicants will be required to complete a quarterly survey to gather demographic information (race/ethnicity, age, etc.) on program participants. Additional end of year program reports will be discussed with grantees during the award notification and contract negotiation period.

You may email KPI_Grants@washingtoncountyor.gov

Staff will respond to general application process questions, but will not provide advice on grant writing or project proposals