Investigate who provides funding for early childhood education in your community. Are any programs funded by the federal, state, or local governments; United Way; private individuals; chain or franchised centers; universities or colleges; businesses; or proprietors? Is anyone else funding early childhood education in your community? Your instructor may assign one student or a group to explore each of these potential resources and provide a written or oral report for the class. Identify the purpose of the funding, conditions for receiving funding (e.g., start-up, operating, or special project funds), potential amount available, and the procedures that must be followed to apply for the funds.