The world of childcare is both rewarding and challenging. In Arizona, as in much of the country, providing quality child care requires not just dedication and love for children but also financial resources to support the high standards of care that every child deserves. Thankfully, grants offer a beacon of hope and support to childcare providers.

In this article, we explore childcare grants in Arizona and top tips to securing this funding, ensuring providers have the resources they need to thrive.

What is a grant?

A grant is a monetary gift that doesn't need to be repaid. It is awarded by governments, foundations, trusts, or corporations to support specific activities or projects. For childcare providers, grants can be a lifeline, offering financial assistance to cover operational costs, purchase supplies, improve facilities, or provide professional development opportunities.

The U.S. government’s second and final funding package for fiscal year 2024 includes a $1 billion increase for programs focused on child care and early childhood education^¹. This new funding includes an additional $275 million for the Head Start program and $725 million for the Child Care and Development Block Grant which funds state efforts to provide child care to families and improve the quality of care. 

Source

Childcare grants in Arizona

In Arizona, a variety of grants are available tailored specifically to the needs of childcare providers. These grants come from both government agencies and private foundations and are designed to support the crucial work of caring for the state's youngest residents.

Grants and resources from government agencies

The Arizona Department of Economic Security is the lead state agency that oversees the distribution of the federal Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) in Arizona. This funding can be in the form of certificates, grants, or contracts to provide childcare services to low-income families or improve the quality of care provided.

Arizona Department of Economic Security

The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) plays a pivotal role in supporting childcare providers through various grants and programs, ensuring children receive high-quality care and education. 

• Arizona Child Care Assistance Provider Grant: This grant supports DES contracted childcare programs and DES certified family childcare providers and can be used for ongoing operations and personnel costs.
• DES State Subsidy: Providers who contract with DES and meet certain health and safety standards are eligible to accept financial reimbursement for eligible children. 

First Things First 

The First Things First organization funds programs and services that focus on early literacy, child development, and health. Notably, the Quality First program helps providers improve the quality of their programs through an assessment and rating system that includes financial incentives, coaching, and professional development resources. 

In addition, the organization funds a college scholarship for early childhood professionals and a bonus program that awards professionals as they advance their education.

Professional development support

Investing in the professional development of childcare staff is crucial for maintaining quality in early childhood education. Here are several resources in Arizona to help providers expand their knowledge.

Arizona Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R)

Arizona’s Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) organization is a vital resource for both families and childcare providers, offering guidance, support, and information to help find and promote quality childcare options throughout the state. The CCR&R connects families with childcare programs and offers free or low-cost professional development and training support to providers. 

The Professional Career Pathway Project (PCPP)

This college scholarship, funded by the DES Division of Child Care, is focused on advancing the careers of childcare professionals in Arizona. Eligible applicants can receive tuition assistance and textbook stipends towards early childhood degrees at collaborating community colleges.

Grants from private foundations

In addition to government support, numerous private foundations in Arizona are dedicated to uplifting childcare services through financial grants. 

Arizona Community Foundation

The Arizona Community Foundation plays a crucial role in bolstering childcare and early education through its diverse portfolio of grants. 

The Steele Foundation

Focused predominantly on the Phoenix and Tucson communities, the Steele Foundation has an invitation-only grant application process focused on improving children’s lives through education.

Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust

The Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust provides support for organizations in Maricopa County that improve the quality of early childhood education centers.

The PNC Foundation

Through its Grow Up Great initiative, the PNC Foundation supports early childhood education efforts, offering grants to providers for curriculum development, teacher training, and classroom resources in Arizona and beyond.

Federal grants and funding opportunities

The federal government offers a variety of grants and funding opportunities to support childcare providers across the United States, including Arizona. These grants are designed to improve access to quality childcare, support the professional development of childcare workers, and enhance the learning environments for children under their care. Some key federal funding sources include:

U.S. Department of Education

The U.S. Department of Education (ED) offers discretionary grants that are awarded using a competitive process, as well as student loans or grants to attend college, and formula grants determined by Congress. Here are some helpful resources to explore:

• ED grants homepage: The ED grants homepage allows you to browse funding opportunities, links to grant applications, and your eligibility status.
• Grants.gov: The Grants.gov website is the central location that provides information on grants across the federal government. You can search for and apply to different funding opportunities, determine your eligibility, and access grant writing tips. 
• Head Start and Early Head Start Programs: Aimed at promoting school readiness for children under five from low-income families, these programs provide grants directly to public and private non-profit and for-profit agencies to provide comprehensive child development services. The Office of Head Start (OHS) posts notices of funding opportunities (NOFOs) that seek applications for grand funds. 

U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) manages various financial assistance programs for rural applications. One example is the Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program that provides funds to be used to purchase, construct and/or improve essential community facilities like childcare centers, purchase equipment, and pay related project expenses in rural areas with no more than 20,000 residents.

Applying for grants

Applying for childcare grants in Arizona can be a competitive process, as funding is often limited. To increase your chances of receiving a grant, it’s essential to carefully review and follow all application guidelines and requirements. Here are some general steps to take when applying for childcare grants:

• Meet all licensing requirements: Ensure that your program meets all of the licensing requirements in Arizona. Maintaining licensing compliance shows a commitment to high-quality standards and is often also required for you to be eligible for specific grants and funding opportunities.
• Do your research and determine your eligibility: Research available grants and determine which ones align with your needs and goals. Before applying, check to see that you meet all the necessary criteria. Most (but not all) government grants are aimed at 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, so be sure to read the eligibility requirements carefully.
• Gather your documentation: Most grant applications will ask for specific documentation, such as financial statements, demographic information, licenses, and certifications. Be sure to have these prepared in advance. With brightwheel you can quickly and easily access custom reporting to meet your specific needs.
• Write a compelling grant proposal: Read successful grant applications to learn how to structure your approach. Include an executive summary of your project and clearly define the need or problem your childcare services address. Provide a detailed description of your program and list your objectives and expected outcomes. Follow all grant application instructions, have someone else review your proposal before submitting, and submit your application on time. 

Additional tips for success

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when applying for grants for your childcare center:

• Stay informed: Connect and engage with local and state organizations focused on early childhood education. If possible, join their email lists or follow their social media pages, as these organizations will often share grant and funding information as it becomes available. Also, regularly check the websites of federal agencies to stay informed on available grants or programs. 
• Create a budget: A comprehensive childcare center budget will highlight the financial needs and priorities of your program and give funders a clear understanding of how a grant will be utilized. With a clear picture of your program’s finances, you can also maximize the impact of any funding that is received.
• Plan a fundraiser: Hosting a fundraising event can raise necessary funds for your program. Have a bake sale, organize a silent auction, or host a trivia night. 
• Hire a grant writer: If your budget allows, consider hiring a grant writer. A grant writer can craft a compelling narrative about your program and navigate the complexities of the grant application process for you.

Final thoughts

Grants for childcare providers in Arizona represent a vital resource to programs offering quality care and educational opportunities for children. By understanding the types of grants available, and diligently preparing your applications, you can unlock new opportunities for growth and development in your childcare business.

1. “Former Preschool Teacher Patty Murray Delivers $1 Billion More to Help Families Find and Afford Child Care & Pre-K”, United States Senate Committee on Appropriations, 03/21/2024.

Brightwheel is the complete solution for early education providers, enabling you to streamline your center’s operations and build a stand-out reputation. Brightwheel connects the most critical aspects of running your center—including sign in and out, parent communications, tuition billing, and licensing and compliance—in one easy-to-use tool, along with providing best-in-class customer support and coaching. Brightwheel is trusted by thousands of early education centers and millions of parents. Learn more at mybrightwheel.com.