The application period for the 2025-26 ECEAP CNF is now closed. Applications for 2026-27 will be available as part of the Request for Application process for 2026-27.

ECEAP Complex Needs Fund

Purpose

The Fair Start for Kids Act, passed by the Washington State Legislature in 2021, created a Complex Needs Fund (CNF) for the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP). 

The fund is intended to promote inclusive, least-restrictive environments, and support ECEAP contractors serving children with developmental delays, disabilities, behavioral needs, and/or other unique needs. The ECEAP CNF aims to reduce learning gaps for children who would otherwise be behind when they start kindergarten and would continue to fall behind in later school years. 

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be current ECEAP contractors in good fiscal standing. Applying does not guarantee that an eligible ECEAP contractor will receive funding. Before, during, and after the award year, as well as during the application and closing periods of ECEAP CNF, contractors must follow ECEAP Performance Standards and any applicable licensing requirements when using the funds. 

*Individual sites serving ECEAP slots are not eligible to apply on their own. These sites must work with their primary contractor to access ECEAP CNF funds. 

To be eligible, ECEAP contractors must have children currently enrolled in their care who have behavioral needs, developmental delays, disabilities, or other unique needs.

What award amounts can a contractor receive?

Funding will be awarded based on factors such as total funding available, the number of applications DCYF receives, the number of ECEAP slots served, and other relevant considerations. Applicants are not required to request a specific dollar amount or submit a project outline or detailed budget tables. 

Only ECEAP CNF applications submitted during the application period will be reviewed. Applying does not guarantee funding. Incomplete or late applications will not be funded.

Funds may be used forFunds may NOT be used for
  • Targeted staffing to support children with complex needs.
  • Mental Health and Behavioral Contracted Services.
  • Supportive and adaptive materials and equipment.
  • Adaptive curriculum.
  • Professional development to provide teacher coaching and training.
  • Unique transportation needs.
  • Staff travel.
  • Indirect costs (up to 15% of total award amount).
  • Costs that do not show direct support to children with complex needs in the classroom.
  • General facility, transportation, or operation costs.
  • Regular wages and benefits for existing staff that are not currently funded by CNF.
  • Support for sites not listed on the CNF application.
  • Capital improvements and regular business expenses (heating/cooling systems, office space, phones, networks, rent, general office equipment, utilities, playground equipment, etc.)
  • Perishable items like food and drink, unless Last Resort funding is being used and prior approval has been granted by DCYF.
  • Work charged to or paid for by any other contract or funding source.
  • Finance charges or late fees incurred on purchases.
  • Any religious worship, instruction, or proselytization.
  • Reimbursement of purchases made outside of the contract period.

How does a contractor apply?

The 2025-26 ECEAP CNF application was embedded in the Contractor Interest Survey that closed on Jan. 21, 2025.

Check back later in the year for updates on how to request Complex Needs Funds for the 2026-27 year. 

Additional Information and Where to Find Assistance

Resources

For more information on the ECEAP Complex Needs Fund, please see the ECEAP Complex Needs Fund Manual, which includes information on detailed terms and conditions, and required deliverables/reporting.

Application Questions

If you have questions about the ECEAP CNF application, timeline, or other questions specific to the ECEAP CNF, email dcyf.eceap@dcyf.wa.gov.