SAINT PAUL, Minn. – This week, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) announced a new round of Child Care Economic Development Grants. The grants authorize $5 million over the next two fiscal years for grants to local communities to increase the supply of quality child care providers to support economic development across Minnesota.
Rep. Liz Olson (DFL – Duluth), chief author of the legislation which delivered the funding, encouraged local governments and nonprofits in northeastern Minnesota to apply.
“A lack of affordable child care throughout our state is one of the biggest obstacles in the way of families experiencing the success they deserve, and is a major barrier toward parents exploring job opportunities,” Rep. Olson said. “I’m proud to have helped deliver historic funding in affordable child care at the Capitol this year. I hope communities and organizations for and around Duluth will take advantage of this tremendous opportunity to improve the future of our young people, help families achieve economic security, and strengthen our regional economy.”
Local governments or nonprofits with experience in the operations, financing, advocacy, or advancement of the delivery of child care services are eligible for grants up to $300,000 this year. Program funds can be used for child care business startups or expansions, training, facility modifications, direct subsidies or incentives to retain employees, or improvements required for licensing, and assistance with licensing and other regulatory requirements. In awarding the grants, DEED will give priority to communities that have a documented shortage of child care providers in their proposed project area.
The deadline to apply is 4:00 p.m. on September 30. More information about the program is available from DEED. DEED will host an informational webinar on September 7 at 11 a.m. using Microsoft Teams.