The Birth-Kindergarten Entry Comprehensive Literacy State Development Subgrant is a funding opportunity administered by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, made possible through a five-year federal Comprehensive Literacy State Development (CLSD) Grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Education. The CLSD initiative is intended to improve literacy outcomes for children from birth through grade 12. Specifically, 15% of the subgranted funds are directed toward early literacy development for children from birth to kindergarten entry, addressing Ohio's urgent need to enhance early literacy and school readiness outcomes, especially for children from low-income families.
This subgrant supports the development of Literacy Implementation Sites across early childhood education and prekindergarten programs in Ohio. It emphasizes the adoption of evidence-based instructional materials and professional learning aligned with the science of reading and Ohio’s Plan to Raise Literacy Achievement. Awarded applicants are expected to provide sustained professional development, implement a multi-tiered system of supports, engage families, and establish community partnerships. Sites must commit to using validated assessment tools, such as the Ages and Stages Questionnaire and the Preschool Early Literacy Indicators, to guide instruction and monitor progress.
The grant period spans from January 1, 2026, through September 30, 2029. Funding ranges from $200,000 to $600,000 per recipient, with approximately $9 million available statewide and an average award of $500,000. Around 16 subgrants are anticipated. Funds must be used to supplement, not supplant, existing funding and are restricted from use on salaries for direct instruction, capital expenditures, out-of-state travel without approval, or other non-educational purposes. Optional additional professional learning and sustainability planning may be proposed.
Applicants must be early childhood education programs with a Silver or Gold Step Up to Quality rating as of June 30, 2025, and serve low-income children. Eligible applicants may apply alone or in partnership with public or private nonprofit agencies with a track record of literacy support. All applicants must have a valid IRN and UEI. Community partnerships are mandatory and may include collaborations with local libraries, higher education institutions, or nonprofits.
The application is submitted through the One Funding Application system, with a deadline of November 5, 2025, at 4:59 p.m. ET. An optional Intent to Apply is due October 8, 2025. Applicants must submit a full application including narrative responses, budget worksheets, and five required appendices. Finalist interviews are tentatively scheduled for December 15–19, 2025, with award notifications expected by January 5, 2026. Implementation begins immediately after, with a subgrant kickoff on January 14, 2026. The program is anticipated to recur annually with updates announced through the Department’s portal.
Applicants should align with Ohio’s Plan to Raise Literacy Achievement, demonstrate readiness, and include strong community partnerships. The Department provides webinars and office hours as guidance.
