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It's no easy job, but for people passionate about providing safe, quality childcare to busy parents, no service is more valuable.
If you want to be a solution to the desperate lack-of-childcare problem, you can easily get started with your own childcare program. With the Care About Childcare's Sustainability Start-up Grant, you can get funding needed to start your own center and become a regulated, licensed provider.
A leg up for childcare startups
The grant was created through Utah's HB15 to use COVID-19 relief funds to help eligible childcare providers with startup and licensing costs.
Offered across the state, this grant is aimed at streamlining the process of establishing a childcare program — and not just with funding, though the grant promises significant financial support.
Beyond covering the costs associated with licensing and inspection fees, recipients of the grant also receive professional guidance during the licensing process and ongoing support once the license is secured.
If you enjoy working with children and might be interested in becoming a licensed childcare provider and building your own business, the grant could be a good fit for you. It includes funding to start a childcare business, including licensing and inspection fees, help with the childcare licensing process, consultation services, free marketing and referrals once licensed, and professional development opportunities. The grant can help with up to $2,500 for licensed family centers and up to $10,000 for licensed centers.
More than financing
Starting a new business isn't easy. That's why the grant's benefits do not end once your business has secured a childcare license. As a new owner, you'll receive consultation services to make sure your facility meets and exceeds industry standards.
Additionally, the grant also provides free marketing and referral services to help attract parents and caregiver employees. You will also receive professional development opportunities to help you and your staff grow your knowledge and skills.
Buying power
While licensing and startup fees are major hurdles in starting your own childcare business, they certainly aren't the only expenses you'll face. Fortunately, the grant also provides funding for other costs, including up to $2,500 for small home centers and up to $10,000 for larger licensed centers. This funding helps ensure Utah's childcare programs are well-equipped and ready to provide a nurturing and stimulating environment for children.
Growing the industry
In addition, the Employer Childcare Startup grant has ARPA Discretionary funds with a goal of reinforcing the infrastructure of childcare in the region and ensuring Utah's children have access to quality care – all while supporting entrepreneurs and helping them achieve their dreams in the industry.
Prospective childcare providers looking for more detailed information about this opportunity can dive deeper by visiting the official Care About Childcare website and the associated grant page.
Funding is provided by the Department of Workforce Services, Office of Child Care ARPA Discretionary funds.
