Gateway Partnership Updates
and Announcements Page
Stay informed with the latest news, project updates, service changes, upcoming events and important announcements.
Check back regularly for the most current information
August 18, 2026 Update.
Preferred & Marketplace Vendor Requirement
Starting in Fiscal Year 2026–27, in alignment with the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) fraud prevention and risk management policies, all early learning materials purchased with Quality Improvement (QI) funds must be ordered directly through CDEC-approved Preferred or Marketplace Vendors within the QRIS Provider Hub.
Reimbursement will still be available for the following:
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Curriculum (must be an approved Universal Preschool curriculum from the linked document)
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Substitute Teacher Cost
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Technical Assistance/PD outside the Quality Improvement Module (QIM)
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Program Accreditation
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Translation and Interpretation Services related to a QIP goal
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Anything not listed above, contact Gateway Partnership for approval
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All reimbursements must directly tie to a Quality Improvement Goal!
September Provider Listening Sessions
In September, we will shift to “Provider Support Sessions,” designed to support any childcare provider participating in the Quality Improvement Coaching Program or Universal Preschool (UPK).
We’ll also share general announcements from Gateway Partnership of interest to any child care provider.
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Please join us on Wednesday, September 16 from 1 to 2:00 pm. No need to register!
August 10, 2026 Update.
Contract Quality Improvement Coaching Opportunity
with Gateway Partnership
Gateway Partnership for Early Childhood, the new Early Childhood Council for Jefferson, Gilpin, and Clear Creek counties, is seeking two to three credentialed Early Childhood Quality Improvement Coaches to provide targeted, relationship-based coaching and technical assistance to licensed early childhood programs in Jefferson, Gilpin, and Clear Creek Counties. The coach partners with program leaders and staff to strengthen high-quality practices, support the implementation of Colorado Shines standards, and enhance outcomes for children and families. Through individualized coaching, collaborative goal setting, reflective practice, and consistent progress monitoring, the coach helps programs develop and sustain meaningful quality improvements. This role requires strong communication, timely documentation, adherence to required policies, and commitment to ongoing professional growth, including regular participation in reflective supervision or consultation (RS/C).
If you are interested, please see the full RFP and submit your proposal to info@gatewayearlychildhood.org, by August 17, 2026, 5pm. We will accept proposals until positions are filled.
Quality Improvement Funding
The Quality Improvement funding application is available on the Provider Hub. There is a different application to apply for a higher-level rating and that will not open until September 22. Please note that if you apply for funding and you are Level 1 or 2, you must apply for a higher-level rating within the designated timeframe under your Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Licensed child care centers, preschools and family child care home providers can use quality improvement (QI) funds to pay for:
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Technical assistance, such as coaching, and consultation
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Professional development
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College courses
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Materials to support program quality
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Costs for accreditation
Please contact us with questions at info@gatewayearlychildhood.org
Minor Improvement Grants
Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) Minor Improvement Grants are competitive funding opportunities managed through the Colorado Shines Quality Improvement Module (QIM). These funds help licensed child care providers upgrade facilities, enhance program quality, and support infant and toddler care spaces. The Minor Improvement grant intent to apply opened August 17, 2026, with a two-week submission window. Please note that Gateway Partnership will need to submit applications on behalf of providers.
Grant Requirements
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Must have a signed TSQI MOU with Gateway Partnership. Submit your QIM program application through Salesforce by September 1, 2026.
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Must be a Level 2 or higher and have an active CCCAP agreement.
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Must have an active classroom for infants and toddlers to be considered. Preschool-only centers are not eligible to apply.
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For Home Providers, the project will benefit program spaces only.
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Project must be started after July 1, 2026, and completed before June 1, 2027.
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While maximum grant awards are $7,500, the full amount is not guaranteed.
Required Documentation to be submitted to Gateway Partnership:
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Bids from three (3) different vendors.
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Proof of insurance for each vendor.
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Bonding, if applicable
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Photographs of the area before improvements.
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ROI: if this project is a licensing requirement.
Please contact us if you are interested in applying for a Minor Improvement Grant at info@gatewayearlychildhood.org
Enhanced Support for ECC Providers Advancing through Colorado Shines
We’re enhancing our support for ECC providers advancing through the Colorado Shines system. Programs moving from Level 1 to Level 2 can receive guidance on required documentation, program profiles and quality‑rating preparation.
For providers progressing beyond Level 2, we offer support toward the CSQI Provisional Level 3, including help using the Provisional Level 3 Points Guide and accessing CSQI funding to strengthen quality practices.
For providers aiming for Level 4: Recognized Quality under National Accreditation, Gateway Partnership can help explore accreditation pathways that best match your goals.
Our goal is to make each step of the quality‑improvement journey clear, supported and achievable for every provider.