Early Childhood Development

Early Childhood Development Giving Priorities

The first five years of a child's life are the most important for healthy development.  These years establish the foundation that a child will live with for the rest of her or his life.  Children need nurturing care, sound nutrition, appropriate learning and developmental opportunities, and the support of caring adults.  In addition, parents or caregivers need support and training to more effectively carry out their role.  SVP invests in organizations with programs that focus on early childhood development and/or that foster improved care-giving skills.

Grantmaking decisions at SVP are made by a committee of our Partners, which allows them to learn more about the issue area, review proposals, and attend site visits.  As a part of this process, the committee refines their giving priorities in each issue area.  In the past, additional consideration has been given to early childhood development organizations that exhibit at least some of the following components:

• Provides professional development, training, and support to parents, caregivers, or teachers

• Promotes quality childcare

• Offers programs that are family or relationship based

• Provides for the health of the child - physical, social, emotional or mental health

• Maintains programs that offer comprehensive services and are consistent in delivery

• Offers culturally and age appropriate programs

If your organization meets SVP’s Early Childhood Development Giving Priorities, be sure to read the How to Apply and Grantmaking FAQs sections of our website.

Interested in Applying?  Learn More About Us!

We held a "Meet SVP" session on October 28, 2009, where we will provided more information on SVP, our grant process, and on capacity building. To download the presentation from the session, please click here! (pdf)

Early Childhood Development Grant Guidelines

SVP invites King County non-profit organizations to apply for the Early Childhood Development grant.  All letters of inquiry must be received by December 1,  2009. 

Updated Grant Guidelines Now Available!  Your organization can download the 2010 Early Childhood Development Grant Guidelines (pdf) for your reference.  Please note that our grant cycles operate once every two years.