SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WSIL) -- Birth to Five Illinois has awarded an additional $2.5 million to Early Childhood Collaborations across the state.

This funding aims to improve systems for young children and their families in 35 regions of Illinois.

The award, consisting of 43 subcontracts for fiscal year 2026, is funded by the Illinois State Board of Education. Since fiscal year 2023, Birth to Five Illinois has invested a total of $11,875,000.

The organization has provided funding to 35 out of 39 regions in Illinois. This demonstrates their commitment to enhancing existing Early Childhood Collaborations and investing in less-funded areas.

Early Childhood Collaborations like iGrow of Vermilion County and the Carbondale Early Childhood Impact Table will use these funds to coordinate developme

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