For childcare providers in the state of Georgia, understanding the myriad of funding resources available can be daunting. From grants that bolster professional development opportunities to those earmarked for facility upgrades, staying informed and prepared can mean the difference between the survival and thriving of your childcare business.

This article lists various funding opportunities and grants in the state of Georgia and tips to apply, ensuring that you're well-equipped to access the financial aid you need to elevate your childcare services.

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What is a grant?

A grant is a gift of money usually given by a government or non-profit organization to fund specific projects or initiatives. Unlike loans, grants are not expected to be repaid and are awarded based on merit, financial need, or a specific societal need. For childcare providers, securing a grant can be a game-changer, offering a financial boost that facilitates growth and improvement in a variety of areas.

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. 

Childcare grants in Georgia

Georgia has many resources designed to support the childcare industry. Whether you're seeking financial assistance to cover operational costs or looking for grants to pay for training, there are different programs and initiatives to help you improve your program quality.

Grants and resources from government agencies

The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) is the lead state agency in Georgia that oversees the distribution of the federal Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF). 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.

Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning

The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) supports childcare programs in the state through various resources and competitive grants. 

• Georgia’s Pre-K Program: The voluntary Georgia’s Pre-K Program offers grants to both public and private pre-k programs. Childcare centers with licensed classroom space for a minimum of 20 children are eligible to participate.
• Early Language and Literacy grants: The LITTLE grant (Lifting Infants and Toddlers Through Language-Rich Environments) supports family childcare providers in fostering literacy and language skills for infants and toddlers through training, coaching, and other resources including stipends, classroom materials, and technology equipment.
• Quality Rated: The Quality Rated program is a voluntary evaluation system that measures childcare facilities' educational practices against state standards. Once rated, these facilities are awarded one to three stars, with each star indicating a higher level of quality. Providers who achieve a high rating can access further financial incentives and resources to maintain high standards of care.

Professional development support

Investing in the professional development of childcare staff is crucial for maintaining quality in early childhood education. Georgia offers numerous resources and financial support for professional development initiatives.

DECAL Scholars

The DECAL Scholars program provides financial assistance, training, and other incentives to early childhood professionals throughout Georgia. The incentives program awards staff members annual salary bonuses for staying with their employer ($1,500 for one to three years at the same employer and $2,500 for four or more years at the same employer). The organization also awards scholarships for early education credentials and degrees.

Quality Care for Children

Quality Care for Children (QCC) offers free business coaching and support services to childcare providers to help them grow their enrollment and maximize revenue.

Child Care Resource and Referral Services

Childcare providers can connect with their local Child Care Resource & Referral Agency to learn about financial assistance options available through the program. Your local agency can also provide licensing information and support with achieving a Quality Rated star rating.

Grants from private foundations

Beyond state government resources, private foundations often champion specific causes and may offer grants to childcare providers that align with their goals. 

The Zeist Foundation

The Zeist Foundation funds nonprofits as well as public-private partnerships across the state of Georgia with a focus on the greater Atlanta metro area. One of their areas of focus is on expanding high-quality early learning opportunities.

The Goizueta Foundation

The Goizueta Foundation supports center-based early learning programs in the metro Atlanta area that provide full-day, year-round care. Grants are awarded to fund program enhancements, access to education, and select investments in capacity and infrastructure.

The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta

The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta offers grants aimed at improving educational outcomes for children, especially in early learning and school readiness. They list various grant opportunities throughout the year on their website and recommend signing up for their monthly newsletter to receive all grant cycle opening announcements.

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 Georgia 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 Georgia. 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 Georgia 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 Georgia. 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

The funding landscape for childcare providers in Georgia is rich with opportunities to expand and improve your services. By navigating and leveraging the range of grants and resources available, you can offer better services to your community and build a thriving 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.

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