Big news for community organizations! The application process is open for the SAE Grant Program for Fiscal Years 2025-26 and 2026-27. These grants help fund projects that make California’s developmental services system more inclusive and easier to access for all.
Important information:
- Read the Notice to Prospective Applicants (PDF) for full details about the application process.
- Follow all instructions in the Grant Guidelines for Applicants webpage.
- Check the SAE Grant Program FAQs for common questions and helpful hints.
About the SAE Grant Program
The SAE Grant Program awards $11 million each year to community-based organizations (CBOs) and regional centers. Since 2016, more than 500 projects have been funded. Together, they have:
- Provided developmental screenings for over 3,400 children
- Hosted more than 2,400 educational workshops for approximately 45,000 families
- Strengthened advocacy, education, and community networks across California
Read about the 2024-25 grant awardees.
Grant Priorities
Project proposals should address one or more of the following priorities:
- Statewide Information and Training Initiative: Create virtual trainings to help individuals and families understand and access regional center services.
- Increasing Pathways into the System: Partner with hospitals, schools, and community providers to help families learn about available services through education, training, and coaching.
- Building Caregiver Networks and Supports: Create or strengthen caregiver and family support groups, especially in culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
- Service Connection Support for Families: Offer peer-to-peer support that respects each family’s culture, values, and language.
- Early Start: Increase access to early intervention services for underrepresented families.
- Innovative strategies: Develop creative, evidence-based ideas that meet unique local needs and reduce barriers to care.
The Department will send a formal award letter and grant agreement to applicants that are awarded funding. Approved projects will be made public soon after that on the Department’s website.