Navigating Childcare Grants and Other Funding Resources in Wisconsin

In the dynamic field of childcare, securing funding can be a significant challenge. Fortunately, numerous grants are available to help providers enhance their services, upgrade facilities, and invest in professional development. 

In this article, we provide tips to simplify the process and provide valuable insights into the available resources for childcare providers in Wisconsin.

What is a grant?

Grants are a form of financial assistance provided by government agencies, private foundations, and other organizations to support specific projects or initiatives. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid, making them an attractive option for childcare providers looking to improve their services without incurring debt. 

By securing grant funding, providers can invest in resources, training, and infrastructure to improve the quality of care they offer. Additionally, receiving a grant can also boost the credibility and reputation of a childcare center within the community and attract more families.

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 education¹. 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 Wisconsin

Childcare providers in Wisconsin have access to various grants that can significantly aid in enhancing their offerings. Below, we've compiled a comprehensive list of financial assistance from government agencies, professional development support, and grants from private foundations.

Grants and resources from government agencies

The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) is the lead state agency that oversees the distribution of the federal Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) in Wisconsin. 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.

Wisconsin Department of Children and Families

The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families offers various programs and funding opportunities for childcare providers in the state. Here are some notable programs: 

• Child Care Counts: The fourth round of the Stabilization Payment Program runs from February 2024 to June 2024. Once approved, providers will receive ongoing monthly payments to the financial stability of their program, including recruiting and retaining staff and providing high-quality care. 

• Wisconsin Shares: This childcare subsidy program offers financial assistance to low-income families, indirectly supporting childcare centers that provide care to these families. Participating providers are able to increase their enrollment numbers and receive consistent subsidy payments. 
• YoungStar: YoungStar is Wisconsin's quality rating and improvement system (QRIS) for childcare providers. This program offers technical assistance, professional development, and financial incentives to help providers enhance their services. Benefits include access to training opportunities, quality improvement payments, and higher reimbursement rates for those achieving higher star ratings.

Professional development support

Investing in professional development is crucial for childcare providers aiming to enhance their skills and improve the quality of care. Wisconsin offers several resources specifically designed to support ongoing education and training in the childcare field.

Supporting Families Together Association (SFTA)

This association connects childcare providers with their local Child Care Resource and Referral agency (CCR&R) and Family Resource Center (FRC) and provides a wide range of resources and support, including professional development opportunities, access to early childhood education resources, and networking events. By collaborating with SFTA, childcare providers in Wisconsin can enhance their skills, stay updated on best practices, and build connections within the early childhood education community, ultimately improving the quality of care they offer to families.

Wisconsin Early Childhood Association (WECA)

WECA is a statewide, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting high-quality early childhood education and supporting childcare providers. WECA offers a variety of programs and resources to enhance the professional development and quality of care. Among these, the REWARD Wisconsin Stipend Program provides financial incentives and bonuses to childcare professionals based on their level of experience and education, encouraging career advancement and retention in the field.

Additionally, the T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Scholarship Program supports childcare providers in pursuing higher education and professional development, offering scholarships that cover tuition costs, books, and travel expenses, thus making it easier for providers to advance their knowledge and skills.

Grants from private foundations

Private foundations play a pivotal role in supporting childcare providers through various grants. These grants offer additional funding opportunities to help improve and expand childcare services in Wisconsin.

Greater Milwaukee Foundation

The Greater Milwaukee Foundation provides grants to improve the quality of early childhood education in the Milwaukee area.

Kohler Foundation

The Kohler Foundation supports programs in Sheboygan County and throughout rural Wisconsin that promote arts and education.

Oscar Rennebohm Foundation

This foundation focuses on enhancing educational opportunities in the greater Madison, Wisconsin and Dane County community, including grants for childcare providers to support early childhood education initiatives.

Otto Bremer Trust

The Otto Bremer Trust funds projects in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Montana, and North Dakota that improve the quality of life in local communities.

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 Wisconsin and beyond.

Source

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 Wisconsin. 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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin. 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 proposal writer: If your budget allows, consider hiring a grant proposal writer. A grant proposal writer can craft a compelling narrative about your program and navigate the complexities of the grant application process for you.

Final thoughts

Grants can be a game-changer for childcare providers in Wisconsin, providing valuable financial support and resources to improve their services. By understanding the different types of grants available and following the necessary steps to secure them, providers can enhance their offerings and positively impact their communities.

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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