Licensed childcare programs—licensed no earlier than June 1, 2024, are eligible to receive up to $15,000 in funding.

This financial support is designated specifically for expanding or stabilising classroom enhancements, ensuring that providers have the resources necessary to improve or maintain high-quality educational environments.

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Funding Purpose

The primary goal of this funding is to support:

Enabling programs to add classroom enhancements that allow for growth in capacity or improvement in the quality of the learning environment.

Expansion:

Assisting existing programs in making necessary updates or improvements to sustain or elevate the quality of care and educational services provided.

Stabilization:

By meeting these criteria, programs are not only investing in their physical spaces but also in the overall quality and safety of the care they offer to children and families, particularly in communities that may face greater challenges in accessing culturally responsive and high-quality childcare

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this funding, programs must meet all of the following requirements:

  • The program must hold a current license, ensuring that it complies with state and local childcare regulations.

  • Providers are required to have a valid and up-to-date background number, demonstrating that all personnel have undergone necessary background checks.

  • The program must be actively caring for children at the time of application. This ensures that funding is directed toward operational programs currently serving families.

  • Providers must either be registered with or be willing to accept Enrollment in the Employment Related Daycare program. This condition supports broader access to quality childcare services.

  • The program must either currently have or be prepared to acquire liability insurance. This protects both the provider and the families in the event of unforeseen incidents.

  • Providers must either hold or complete the required training to meet “Step 8” standards. This step ensures that educators are well-prepared and maintain the highest quality standards in early childhood education.

  • The program must have designated infant slots, emphasizing the importance of quality care for the youngest children in the community.

* Programs that have not had any access to funding will be prioritized.