Competitive grantOther federal
CLSD
Comprehensive Literacy State Development
Competitive grants to states to improve literacy from birth through grade 12, especially for disadvantaged children. States then make subgrants to districts and early learning providers.
Official source checked Oct 15, 2026
How to access it: Individual teachers cannot apply; districts apply to their state if a subgrant is open.
- Federal agency
- U.S. Department of Education
- State / local administration
- Awarded states run subgrant competitions.
- Intended beneficiaries
- Children from birth through grade 12, focusing on disadvantaged students.
- Eligible applicants
- States compete federally; districts and early learning providers apply to their state if it holds a CLSD grant.
- Funding mechanism
- Competitive grant — Requires an application; awards are made by selection.
- Automatic or competitive
- Competitive at the federal level; only some states hold active grants at any time.
- Application process
- Check whether your state currently holds a CLSD grant and has an open subgrant.
- Current status
- Availability depends on whether your state holds an active grant
- Funding year
- Multi-year awards; check your state's current grant period.
What this funding could pay for
Potential uses only. Whether a cost is allowable depends on current federal rules, your state's requirements and your district's plan. Confirm with your district or state before spending.
Literacy and Reading
Evidence-based literacy instruction and interventions.
Teacher Professional Development
Literacy professional development.
Early Childhood Education
Early literacy programmes.
Curriculum and Instructional Materials
Literacy instructional materials.