CLiF Early Childhood Literacy Grant, 2026-27

ELIGIBILTY

Family centers, preschools, public libraries, community organizations, and early childhood centers located in VT and NH are eligible to receive funding.

• At least 30 children (ages 0-5) must participate in the program.
• Organizations with an enthusiastic and organized coordinator willing to collaborate with CLiF on planning, organizing, and communicating about your project.
• Demonstrated ability to explore partnerships that will benefit children and families. 
• Demonstrated need amongst children and families served.

Does your program have less than 30 children? Apply for a SMALL PROGRAM GRANT here. If selected, you will receive 25 free books to refresh your collection.

GRANT COMPONENTS

1. New Books = $500

• New library books for the grantee’s collection, including felt storyboards, big books, books in foreign languages, or puppets with accompanying books. 

2. Giveaway Books = $300

• 70 new board books for children to take home and keep.

3. Family Engagement = $500

• Stipend for food, supplies, guest presenter, and/or activities that support onsite family literacy events. 
• Incentives for families to visit the local library or read at home together (i.e. reading challenge with raffle prizes). 

4. Literacy Book Bags = $200

• Themed literacy kits for children to borrow and read at home with their family.  

5. Grantee’s Choice! Pick One = $500

• More books! This can include Yoto players; VOX books; decodable books; felt storyboards; books in different languages; etc.
• Professional development staff training with Anna Adler on music and literacy for children ages 0-5
• Literacy related field trip (i.e. tickets to the ECHO Center to see Eric Carle exhibit)
• Literacy related guest artist, educator, author/illustrator presenter from CLiF’s list, etc.
• Creative programming ideas that link to literacy
• Additional family engagement activities or events