The Robins Foundation has officially opened applications for its first ECCE SPARK Grant Cycle of 2026, inviting eligible nonprofit organizations to apply for funding focused on early childhood care and education (ECCE). This cycle marks the first of two SPARK funding rounds scheduled for the 2026 calendar year, with a second cycle planned to open in July. Grant applications will be accepted starting Wednesday, 21 January 2026, with awards beginning at $25,000. The Foundation prioritises initiatives that strengthen early learning systems and improve outcomes for young children and their families across the Richmond region. About the ECCE SPARK Grants The ECCE SPARK Grants are designed to support organisations delivering high-impact programs that improve early childhood learning environments and promote long-term child wellbeing. Robins Foundation focuses on funding initiatives that enhance the quality, sustainability, and equity of early childhood education and care. Priority is given to programs and initiatives that demonstrate strong alignment with the Foundation’s strategic goals, particularly those that foster: Exceptional learning environments Positive adult–child interactions Sustainable early childhood workforce development Policy, systems change, and advocacy Mandatory Pre-Application Requirement A mandatory pre-application conversation with the Foundation is required for all applicants. This step ensures alignment with funding priorities and helps determine whether submitting a full application is an effective use of time and resources for both parties. Key details include: Pre-application questions available: 21 January 2026 Pre-application calls conducted: 26 January – 6 February 2026 Calls must be scheduled after completing the pre-application questionnaire Conversations will be held with Meg Pienkowski, Program Director Only organisations that complete the pre-application process and conversation will be invited to submit a full proposal. Key Focus Areas Robins Foundation funds early childhood initiatives across four core focus areas, recognising that children thrive when learning environments and family systems are strong and interconnected. Funded projects typically fall within the following areas: High-quality programs directly serving children ages 0–5 Family engagement initiatives that support caregivers and strengthen relationships Workforce supports for early childhood educators and providers Policy and advocacy efforts that improve early childhood systems These focus areas reflect evidence-based approaches that influence brain development, school readiness, and lifelong wellbeing. Eligibility Requirements To be eligible for the 2026 ECCE SPARK Grant Cycle, organisations and projects must meet the following criteria: Primarily support children and families from prenatal stages through age 5 Serve communities in Richmond City, Chesterfield, Henrico, and/or Petersburg Be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organisations Organisations with questions about eligibility are encouraged to contact the Foundation directly before applying. Ineligible Projects and Activities While Robins Foundation values the broad work of community organisations, certain proposals fall outside the scope of ECCE SPARK funding priorities. The Foundation does not fund projects focused solely on: Travel to conferences, meetings, or events Addressing budget shortfalls or cash flow challenges Capital investments or major construction projects Religious-based activities Provision of basic needs such as food, housing, or clothing Organisations with religious affiliations remain eligible provided their programs, curriculum, and admissions are secular. The Foundation acknowledges the importance of basic needs but has made a strategic decision to concentrate resources on early childhood care and education. Application Process and Key Deadlines Eligible organisations must complete the application process in the following order: Pre-Application Submission Complete the eligibility quiz and pre-application questionnaire via GOapply Available: 21 January 2026 Deadline: 4 February 2026 Pre-Application Conversation Schedule and complete a call with the Program Director Offered: 26 January – 6 February 2026 Full Application Submission Available after completion of the pre-application call Deadline: Friday, 6 March 2026 Grant Decisions and Notifications Announced: Mid-June 2026 Organisations that received a Robins Foundation grant in December 2025 are requested to wait until the next grant cycle before reapplying. Additional Guidance and Resources Applicants are encouraged to review all available resources before applying, including: Full grant application questions provided in advance Robins Foundation’s official AI Policy outlining acceptable use of artificial intelligence Accommodation support for applicants requiring accessibility adjustments For eligibility questions, application support, or updates to organisational profiles, organisations may contact grants@robinsfdn.org. Conclusion The 2026 ECCE SPARK Grant Cycle represents a significant funding opportunity for nonprofits committed to advancing early childhood care and education. Through targeted investment, the Robins Foundation continues to support programs that strengthen families, empower educators, and create high-quality learning environments that enable young children to thrive. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the grant organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.