Our History

About Us

Since 1985, the Montana Early Childhood Project (ECP) has been dedicated to improving the quality of programs and services for Montana's young children and their families. We are an outreach program within Montana State University's Department of Human Development and Community Health.

Since 1995 the ECP has facilitated the creation and implementation of a state plan for early care and education career development. We are funded through the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services Early Childhood Services Bureau from the federal Child Care and Development Fund. We work closely with partner organizations across the state to promote early childhood professional development. On a national level, we are actively involved in The National Workforce Registry Alliance and other organizations to promote a knowledgeable and skilled early childhood workforce.

Our office is located in Bozeman, MT and we have seven dedicated individuals committed to our ECP mission and goals. We frequently employ MSU students and supervise student internships.

Career Development Advisory Board

Meeting twice a year, the board guides the direction and operations of the Early Childhood Project.  The Advisory Board grew out of the initial task force convened to envision and plan for an Early Care and Education Career Development program.  Representation includes:

  • Montana Child Care Resource and Referral Network
  • Early Childhood Higher Education Consortium
  • Montana Association for the Education of Young Children
  • Head Start State Collaboration Project
  • Head Start Association
  • Child Care plus+ Center on Inclusion in Early Childhood (UM)
  • Child and Adult Care Food Program
  • Montana Department of Labor and Industry
    • Apprenticeship Program and Training
  • Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
    • Early Childhood Services Bureau
    • Quality Assurance Division
  • Office of Public Instruction