In 2018, DCDEE was awarded $4.48 million through the PDG for activities to strengthen NC’s early childhood education system. This grant is one way NCDHHS is implementing the statewide Early Childhood Action Plan (ECAP). The PDG funded activities for assessing statewide needs and strategic planning for the state’s early learning system, supporting family outreach and engagement efforts, building on best practices for improved services for families, and improving quality early childhood education through increased resources and support for infant-toddler caregivers. See below for more details on the activities funded in the first year of the PDG grant in North Carolina, many of which will receive continued or expanded funding in future years of the grant. (author abstract)