Head Start State Supplement Grants

DPI Wisconsin Head Start State Supplement Grant:

The Wisconsin Head Start State Supplement Grant (HSSS) provides additional support to federally funded Early Head Start/Head Start programs in Wisconsin. It was created by the Wisconsin legislature in 1989 and first funded in 1991. The grant supports quality improvement efforts and/or expands Early Head Start/Head Start enrollment for children who may be on waiting lists to access federally funded Early Head Start/Head Start programming. The current state supplement provides $6.2 million to 39 federally funded Early Head Start/Head Start program grantees in Wisconsin. 

Who is Eligible to Apply: Authorized federally funded Early Head Start/Head Start programs in Wisconsin

Amount of Funds Available: Approximately $6,264,100

Grant Administration: Fiscal Year 2026 (July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026) 

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI), Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF), and Head Start Collaboration Office (HSCO) Director have agreed that DCF will administer the Head Start State Supplement Grant (HSSS) for the 2026 fiscal year. This maintains consistency for federally funded Early Head Start/Head Start Programs by bringing the grants under the DCF which houses the HSCO. 

Head Start State Supplement Grant Application Fiscal Year 2026

• The 2026 Head Start State Supplement Grant Application  period is now Closed. 
• Supportive Application Guidance Documents
  • WI Head Start State Supplement Grant-Application Tips
  • WI Head Start State Supplement Grant Allowable Use of Funds
  • Supplement Program Schedule Example  (downloadable document)

Questions about the Fiscal Year 2026 Head Start State Supplement Grant can be directed to DCFHSSS@wisconsin.gov