February 13, 2026
Understanding the Illinois Funding Landscape
A conversation on funding design
In July 2026, most early childhood programs are scheduled to transition from their legacy agencies to the new Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC), a move that will change the ways that early childhood programs are funded. To help de-mystify this process for advocates, Illinois’ early childhood coalitions Raising Illinois and We, the Village, are coming together to share information about this process and ways to engage with IDEC.
We brought together Bri Stormer, Assistant Director, Policy and Engagement at Illinois Action for Children and co-chair of the We, the Village Policy Committee; Kimberly Bianchini, Founder & Director of Advance Preschool, Inc. in Hoffman Estates; and Simone Santiago, Director of Raising Illinois for a discussion around how Illinois's early childhood programs are currently funded, and what proposed changes are under the new IDEC structure.
We invite you to view the video below to learn more!
At such a critical and exciting time for the state, it’s crucial that the perspectives and experience of providers are heard throughout the decision-making process. Through We, the Village and Raising Illinois, we are poised to ensure that providers across the state have the opportunity to shape the new design of our state’s systems. Visit the IDEC webite to get involved with the transition work!