Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity Scholarship Program Overview

Effective with the 2024-25 academic year, several important changes have taken effect for this program. These changes are discussed in a July 18, 2024 e-Message.

The Early Childhood Access for Consortium for Equity (ECACE) Scholarship Program provides funds for those who are currently working or have worked in the early childhood education field and are seeking additional credentials and degrees. Recipients must attend a public or non-profit private 2- or 4-year Gateways-entitled and Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity member institution as undergraduate students.

The maximum annual award a student may receive is the lesser of $7,500 or the cost of attendance after other aid is considered.

Recipients of the scholarship are expected to continue or return to teaching or direct services in the early childhood care and education field in Illinois after they complete their program of study.

Those interested in pursuing available early childhood education opportunities can complete the Higher Education Navigator Interest Form to be connected to someone who will walk them through all the options. A Higher Education Navigator from a local Child Care Resource and Referral Agency will reach out to anyone completing the form, and will help with finding and enrolling in the college that best meets their needs.