Early Learning Scholarships: Applying for Pathway II Funding

Eligible programs for Pathway II

Parent Aware Four-Star Rated programs can apply for Pathway II funding. Eligible programs include:

• Head Start
• School-based preschool programs
• Licensed child care centers
• Licensed family child care programs

Funding is distributed equitably by geography and program type, with poverty concentration as a key consideration. To receive funding, a program must currently serve children eligible for Early Learning Scholarships or have eligible children on their wait list.

Use of funds

Pathway II funds should be used to increase access. Increasing access should be thought of as reducing barriers for participation in programs and includes:

• Adding slots
• Increasing duration
• Providing transportation
• Filling gaps in payment remaining after Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) payments have been applied
• Providing specific services to support individual children’s access

Programs may also use funding to maintain previous increases to access.

Pathway II scholarships must be used in accordance with the plan submitted to the state, or a formally amended current version of that plan.

How to apply

Pathway II funding is awarded statewide in a biannual process aligned to the state biennium. Applications are available in the spring of odd years, and awards are for a two-year funding period beginning July 1 of odd years. The most recent application period for Pathway II ended in March 2025 for fiscal year 2026–27 awards. The next Pathway II application period will open in spring 2027.

Policy manuals and guidance

• State Early Learning Scholarships Policy Manual (PDF): Documents policy, procedure and process for the state Early Learning Scholarships program
• Supplemental Guide for Priority Populations (PDF): Supports Early Learning Scholarships implementation for children in priority populations
• 2023 Program Updates (PDF): Summarizes changes passed in the 2023 Legislative Session for the Early Learning Scholarships program

If your program has been awarded Pathway II funding, please visit our Resources for Awardees webpage.

Other questions?

• For questions about Early Learning Scholarships overall, including policy clarifications, contact DCYF.ELScholarships@state.mn.us
• For questions about Pathway II, contact DCYF.PathwayII@state.mn.us
• For questions about the Early Learning Scholarship Administration System (ELSA), contact DCYF.ELSA@state.mn.us