Bay Area
Early Childhood Funders

Bay Area Early Childhood Funders (ECF) brings together foundation staff, public funders, and private donors who share a commitment to supporting young children, their families, and early childhood educators. Since 1994, we've created a vital space where funders connect, learn, and collaborate—staying informed about research and policy developments, discovering partnership opportunities, and strengthening impact.

ECF provides the community and resources to help make a greater difference. Members gain access to:

  • Expert-led panels and peer convenings, held at least 3 times per year across the Bay Area

  • Networking events with other funders and local nonprofit partners

  • Timely policy briefs from the Child Care Law Center

  • A monthly newsletter with resources and collaboration opportunities

  • Learning events hosted by the national Early Childhood Funders Collaborative (our partner)

More than a professional learning community, ECF is where Bay Area funders join forces to magnify their philanthropic effectiveness, advance racial equity in our grantmaking, and ensure that every young child in our region has the opportunity to thrive.