Early Learning Indiana (ELI) in Indianapolis has announced the launch of its Early Years Initiative, funded by a $55 million commitment from the Lilly Endowment.

The initiative will provide support to Indiana-based organizations to strengthen the development of infants and toddlers (birth through age 3). To that end, ELI expects to make 200 grants ranging from $75,000 to $500,000.

The Lilly Endowment grant includes up to $50 million for the initiative and $5 million to help ELI administer it and provide technical assistance to organizations funded through it. The initiative will focus on funding programs and projects that influence healthy brain development in young children and other aspects of their physical, social-emotional, and cognitive well-being.

“The environment and experiences of a child’s first three years of life substantially influence cognitive social, emotional, and physical development and often affect long-term academic success and quality of life,” said Lilly Endowment vice president for education Ted Maple. “ELI, with its deep knowledge of and experience in early childhood education, is well positioned to support organizations that have the interest in and ability to implement proven and promising programs and interventions for very young children.”

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