The Early Learning Facilities Capitol Readiness Pilot Project represents an innovative approach to preparing early learning programs for facility expansion. The project was implemented by Design for Early Learning and Multicultural Child and Family Hope Center aimed to enhance the capacity of early learning programs across Washington State. The project created structured partnerships between 8 Design firms and 10 licensed early learning programs, both family and center based child care, from around Washington State. The program provided technical advocacy and financial support through individualized grants of $12,00 - $35,000 based on program needs and readiness.

Our role at Design for Early Learning included:

• Creating an open process to invite early learning professionals and design professionals experienced in EL facilities to apply for the project.

• Intentionally matched the design professionals with each early learning program based on their stage of development.

• Creating joint professional development sessions for early learning and design professionals that focused on design process, vision and values, materiality, project financing, and case studies.

• Organized and facilitated the 2025 Design Symposium.

The Early Learning Facilities Capitol Readiness Pilot Project was made possible by a $350,000 grant from The Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) in partnership with The Department of Commerce.