Early Start CT (ESCT) is a new state-funded early care and education program that’s launching in July 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
For information regarding Early Start CT RFA (B), please click here.
Review the PowerPoint presentation from the Early Start CT information sessions.
Watch the video of the Early Start CT RFA Information Session
Early Start CT Question and Answers (posted 11/22/24)
Early Start CT Questions and Answers #2 (posted 11/27/24)
Early Start CT Questions and Answers #3 (posted 12/2/24)
Learn about goals for the program and how we’ll implement it.
Learn about the 2 types of funding — baseline funding and competitive funding.
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 care and education for Connecticut’s children.
We’re happy to help. Email us.