Grants and Scholarships
for child care providers listed in the 4-C referral database who are working in a licensed or license-exempt setting that is family child care, child care center, preschool, or school age program.

Professional Development Funds (PDF) are provided to support center based and family child care providers in pursuit of professional development (i.e. conference/workshop registration fees & lodging and fees associated with credentialing processes).  Funds are allocated on an ongoing basis as funds allow. Click Here to access the application.

***Please note: As of July 1, 2010 changes were made to how funds will be allocated.  The most significant change is that college tuition requests will now go through the Gateways Scholarship Program.  4-C will continue to provide other professional development assistance to help you advance your early childhood career.  CCR&R staff can also assist you with information regarding college course offerings and Gateways tuition assistance.  Information on the Gateways Scholarship Program is also available at www.ilgateways.com or call 866-697-8278.

Accreditation Assistance Funds (AAF) are provided to assist family child care homes, centers and school-age programs in achieving accreditation.  Funds are allocated on an ongoing basis as funds allow. Click Here to access the application.

Quality Counts Grants: The Quality Counts Child Care Grant Program is designed to support family child care and center based programs to enhance the quality of care for children. These funds are to support planned program improvements and to assist providers in the achievement and maintenance of the Quality Rating System, Information Sessions are held to explain the application process and timelines for the current year. Click Here for Information Sessions Dates and Locations.

For more information contact CCR&R:
In DeKalb, Ogle, Lee, Whiteside and Carroll County:
815-758-8149 or 800-848-8727 ext. 226

In McHenry County:
815-344-5510 or 866-347-2277

Eligible accrediting bodies for funding:

National Association of Family Child Care (NAFCC)

National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)

National Early Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA)

Council on Accreditation/ School Age (COA)

National Accreditation Commission for Early Care
& Education A division of the National Association of Child Care Professionals

Eligible credentials for funding:

Child Development Associate (CDA)

Certified Childcare Professional (CCP)

Gateways to Opportunity Credentials:

Illinois Director
Credential (IDC)

ECE Credential

Infant/Toddler Credential