Smart Beginnings Western Tidewater is a multi-jurisdictional collaboration comprised of three localities: City of Franklin, Southampton County and Isle of Wight County.

Smart Beginnings Western Tidewater and its partners have consistently focused on evidence-based practices and models to make decisions, which improve the lives of children in Western Tidewater.

The formation of SBWT began in 2003 with a group of citizens from the City of Franklin and Southampton County who had a vision for the economic future of the region.

With more interest in this program, the initial alliance grew from Franklin-Southampton Alliance to the Early Childhood Commission to Smart Beginnings Western Tidewater.

SBWT places a high priority on identifying and supporting programs that promote excellence in helping children and families.