Early Start CT

Early Start CT is a new state-funded early care and education program that’s launching in July 1, 2025.

It combines 3 existing programs — Child Day Care Contracts, School Readiness Grants, and State Head Start Supplement Grants — into 1 new program.

This new program will have benefits for providers and families:

• Less paperwork and more predictable pay schedules for providers
• Improved access to high-quality early care and education programming for families
• Centering family and community needs through Local Governance Partners (LGPs)
• Streamlined early care and education system by aligning eligibility requirements and standardizing family co-pay scale

Our RFA and RFP have closed

The opportunity to become a state-funded Early Start CT provider has closed. But when new opportunities arise, we’ll share information here and with the field.

Already submitted an application? We’ll send you an email in May letting you know the status of your application.

We want to hear from you!

We will post upcoming feedback opportunities here as they are scheduled.

Thank you to everyone who has already provided input. Your continued partnership is critical to providing high-quality early care and education for Connecticut’s children.

Learn more about Early Start CT