How to bid on Early Start CT Expansion for Connecticut OEC

What Connecticut OEC is funding

The Connecticut Office of Early Childhood is seeking applications from early childhood education programs to provide state-funded Early Start CT care and education spaces for eligible families.

At least $13 million per year is available for an 18-month period from January 1, 2027, through June 30, 2028. The funding is supported by the Early Childhood Education Endowment.

Deadline and timing

The application deadline is October 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. Submit your response before that time.

The award period covers January 1, 2027, through June 30, 2028.

Who this opportunity suits

This RFA is for early childhood education programs interested in expanding or providing Early Start CT state-funded spaces for eligible families in Connecticut.

How to access the application and respond

The RFA was posted on CTsource, Connecticut’s statewide procurement portal. You can view the bid publicly without an account.

Use the original CTsource posting to review the full documents and instructions. Downloading documents or submitting a response requires a free CTsource account. The Office of Early Childhood webpage also provides information and a link to the application.

Prepare a clear, complete application

Read the full RFA and follow its application instructions closely. Use a checklist to track required materials, forms, and submission steps, and make sure your response addresses the stated evaluation criteria.

Plan time to create or access your CTsource account and submit well before the deadline. Check that your response is complete and that the portal confirms submission.