In Ohio, like many other states, ensuring families have access to quality child care is more than a social imperative—it’s an economic necessity. But for the childcare providers who offer essential services, especially those operating smaller centers and home-based programs, maintaining and improving their offerings often comes down to funding.

In this article, we'll break down the sometimes complicated world of grants and funding opportunities available to childcare providers in Ohio, helping small business owners and entrepreneurs tap into resources that can transform their facilities and create impactful change for the children they serve.

What is a grant?

A grant is a sum of money that an organization—usually a government agency, community foundation, or even a corporation—awards to an individual or an entity to pursue a specific project or develop a service that benefits the community.

Unlike a loan, which requires repayment often with interest, a grant doesn't need to be paid back. This critical difference makes grants especially appealing for childcare providers working to enhance their services without the financial burden of repayment hanging over their heads. 

For providers striving to make meaningful improvements in their childcare environments—be it through advanced educational materials, facility upgrades, or expanded services—grants offer a golden opportunity to secure necessary funding.

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. 

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Childcare grants in Ohio

Childcare providers in Ohio have several avenues of funding to explore. Here, we break down the main categories and offer details on how to find these opportunities.

Grants and resources from government agencies

The Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services is the lead state agency that oversees the distribution of the federal Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) in Ohio. 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.

Ohio Department of Children and Youth

The Ohio Department of Children and Youth is dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of children and creating environments where children can thrive. In partnership with childcare providers, the department works to ensure that facilities not only meet regulatory standards but also provide enriching, high-quality care. 

• Free brightwheel subscription: In partnership with the Ohio Department of Children and Youth, all licensed childcare providers in Ohio are eligible to receive free access to brightwheel, the #1 childcare software.

• Early Childhood Education Grant: This state-funded grant is awarded to existing childcare centers and other types of providers who operate high-quality programs in high-need areas of the state.

• Step Up to Quality: This rating and improvement system recognizes early childhood programs that meet specific requirements and program standards to achieve a star rating. Programs that receive a star rating and provide publicly funded child care are eligible for additional funding.

Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services (ODJFS)

A central resource for grants and funding opportunities, ODJFS offers various programs aimed at improving childcare services and supporting providers across the state.

Ohio Department of Development

While not exclusively focused on childcare, the Ohio Department of Development offers grants and financial assistance programs that small businesses, including childcare providers, can access to support growth and sustainability.

Professional development support

Investing in the professional development of childcare staff is crucial for maintaining quality in early childhood education. Ohio offers scholarships and other financial support to childcare staff and directors, aiming to increase qualifications and improve practices in early childhood programs.

T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Ohio

The T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Ohio scholarship program supports childcare providers to pursue higher education in the field of early childhood. Designed to alleviate high turnover issues in the industry, the program provides higher pay each year to employees that are working toward a credential or degree in early childhood education. In return, professionals commit to stay working at their program while in school and for a time afterward. 

POWER Ohio

The POWER Ohio program (Powering Optimal Wages and Encouraging Retention) offers wage supplements to eligible administrators and teachers who are furthering their education. Payments are tied to educational achievements and based on an individual’s role, education, and retention milestones. 

Ohio Child Care Resource and Referral Association

The Ohio Child Care Resource and Referral Association (OCCRRA) serves all Ohio counties and provides professional development and technical assistance to early childhood programs in the state.

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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. 

PRE4CLE

The goal of the PRE4CLE initiative is to expand access to early education for all three- and four-year-olds in the city of Cleveland. The initiative gives grants and other financial and professional development support to childcare programs completing facility renovations. In addition, the initiative funds new high-quality preschool programs in the city of Cleveland.

The Columbus Foundation

The Columbus Foundation provides financial assistance to programs that improve the quality of life in Central Ohio, including childcare services aiming for higher standards of care and education. Through their own direct grants and grants from supporting foundations such as the Paul G. Duke Foundation, the Ingram-White Castle Foundation, and the Siemer Family Foundation, they fund programs focused on education and underserved children and families. 

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 Ohio and beyond.

The Duke Energy Foundation

Although broader in scope, the Duke Energy Foundation considers grants for educational programs, including those related to early childhood development and STEM, in areas served by Duke Energy.

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 Ohio. 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 Ohio 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 Ohio. 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 and funding resources in Ohio provide a pathway for childcare providers to elevate their services, foster growth, and ensure children in their care are given the best start in life. Navigating the grant landscape can be complex, but with diligence and a focus on alignment with your business’s mission and goals, you'll find endless opportunities for change.

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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