New CDA to Accreditation Pathway Scholarship Program Invests in Family Child Care Educators Nationwide

The National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) and the Council for Professional Recognition (The Council) announce a new national partnership to launch the CDA to Accreditation Pathway Scholarship Program, an initiative designed to expand access to accreditation and strengthen professional supports for family child care educators.

Under this three-year collaboration, the Council will provide $50,000 in scholarship funding for NAFCC members who hold a Child Development Associate® (CDA) Credential and are pursuing NAFCC Accreditation or Re-Accreditation. The Council will also provide FCC CDA holders a chance to opt in to a free yearlong NAFCC Ambassador Membership ($40 value) expanding access to membership and professional development resources.

“This partnership is an important step toward building a stronger, more supported family child care workforce,” said Erica Phillips, Executive Director of NAFCC. “The CDA to Accreditation Pathway Scholarship Program removes financial barriers, strengthens the FCC community and creates a clear path from earning the CDA to achieving NAFCC Accreditation.”

NAFCC will manage scholarship disbursement, promote opportunities, provide application support, and host monthly membership orientation sessions. Both organizations will participate in quarterly reviews beginning March 2026 to assess program impact.

The partnership also includes coordinated marketing efforts, co-branded outreach, webinars, conference engagement, and media announcements to increase awareness of the program. The agreement took effect October 8, 2025, marking a shared commitment to expanding opportunity, strengthening quality, and advancing the early childhood profession.