As childcare operators ourselves who have navigated this process, we've put together this comprehensive guide to help you understand the ELF grant program and maximize your chances of approval.
What is the ELF Grant Program?
The Early Learning Facilities program is administered by the Washington State Department of Commerce in partnership with DCYF. It provides grants and loans to help Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) contractors and Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) providers expand, remodel, purchase, or construct early learning facilities.
What ELF Grants Cover
- New facility construction
- Building acquisition
- Renovations and expansions
- Design and engineering costs
- Playground and outdoor learning spaces
- Health and safety upgrades
Who is Eligible for ELF Funding?
ELF funding is available to:
- Nonprofits
- Public entities
- K-12 schools and districts
- Tribes
- For-profit businesses (depending on funding round)
All applicants must serve income-qualified households and be able to meet DCYF licensing requirements.
The ELF Grant Application Process
Step 1: Assess Your Project's Feasibility
Before applying, you need a clear understanding of your project scope, budget, and timeline. This includes site analysis, preliminary design concepts, and realistic cost estimates. Many applications fail because the project scope doesn't match the funding request.
Step 2: Understand DCYF Licensing Requirements
Your facility must meet all DCYF licensing standards. This includes specific requirements for square footage per child, sink placement, outdoor play areas, and safety features. Building these requirements into your design from day one saves costly changes later.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application
Strong applications include:
- Detailed project budget and timeline
- Evidence of community need (childcare desert data)
- Commitment to serving low-income families
- Organizational capacity to complete the project
- Sustainability plan for ongoing operations
Step 4: Submit and Follow Up
Applications are reviewed competitively. The 2023-2025 funding cycle received 212 applications requesting $196 million—over 600% more than available funding. This means your application needs to stand out.
Tips for a Successful ELF Grant Application
1. Demonstrate Community Need
63% of Washington residents live in childcare deserts. Use data to show the specific need in your target area.
2. Show You Understand Childcare Operations
Grant reviewers want to see that you can successfully operate a childcare facility, not just build one.
3. Have Realistic Budgets
Construction costs in Washington range from $150-200+ per square foot in urban areas. Underestimating costs is a red flag. Learn more in our guide on daycare construction costs in Washington State.
4. Plan for DCYF Compliance
Show that your design already accounts for licensing requirements—square footage, sightlines, sink placement, outdoor access, and more.
How Childcare Builder Can Help
Navigating the ELF grant process while planning construction is complex. As the only childcare construction firm in Washington run by actual childcare operators, we offer:
- Feasibility assessments to determine if your project qualifies
- ELF grant application support including budget development
- DCYF-compliant design built into every project
- Full construction services from blueprint to grand opening
We've been through this process ourselves with Nurture with Care Kids Academy. We know what it takes to build a successful childcare facility—and we're here to help you do the same.
Related Articles
- How to Open a Daycare in Washington State: Complete 2025 Guide
- How Much Does It Cost to Build a Daycare in Washington State?
Ready to Explore ELF Funding for Your Project?
Schedule a free consultation to discuss your childcare facility project and learn how we can help with your ELF grant application.
Schedule a ConsultationOr call us: 360-682-9870