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    Texas Workforce Commission Provides Additional Support for Creation and Expansion of Child Care Businesses in Texas

    Texas Workforce Commission • Jun 01, 2022

    The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is offering start-up funding to support three goals — the expansion of child care in areas of the state that lack sufficient child care capacity, the additional supply of child care for infants, and child care created in partnership with employers. The Commission approved $75 million to increase the number of high-quality child care providers for working parents, including these new start-up grants. 


    “The demand for child care is increasing as Texas continues record-setting job creation,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “This program is intended to reduce the financial barriers associated with expanding centers or opening new centers.” 


    Funding is available for child care center and home-based providers opening or expanding capacity after March 1, 2022:

    1. In a child care desert, defined as an area where the number of children younger than six years of age who have working parents is at least three times greater than the capacity of licensed child care providers in the area. Check the zip code here.
    2. In partnership with an employer or consortium of employers; and/or
    3. To serve infants (0-17 months) across the state.


    The initiative, paid for with a portion of the state’s $5.86 billion in federal child care stimulus funding, is intended to reduce the costs of opening or expanding a child care program. The funds can be used for indoor and outdoor equipment and furnishings, educational resources, classroom and kitchen supplies, permitting fees, staffing costs, minor renovations, and outreach costs to recruit families and staff.


    “We must find innovative ways to increase the capacity of child care providers for working families, especially for those with infants and those who live in child care deserts,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez. “This funding will also benefit child care industry workers as they care for our most precious resource in the Lone Star State: our children.”


    Child care providers may be eligible to receive up to two awards: A Start-Up Award and an Initial Operating Award. Prospective providers interested in receiving funding must develop and complete a viable business plan. A free business coach is available for those applying, and one will be assigned if a business plan is not ready for approval.


    “The child care industry is crucial to our state’s economy and the federal stimulus funding, totaling $5.86 billion, will continue to support the needs of the child care industry and Texas families,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson. “These funds not only come at a critical time for providers and families, they are essential to Texas employers as they work to recruit and retain individuals who need child care in order to be able to work.”


    The Child Care Provider Expansion Initiative will open in June 2022. To learn more about this opportunity, go to the Child Care Provider Expansion Initiative website. You can also watch recorded information sessions about the program and application process.

    WSET Child Care
    By Workforce Solutions East Texas 11 Apr, 2024
    Are you passionate about children and eager to positively impact their lives? Do you dream of opening your own child care center but feel overwhelmed by the process? Workforce Solutions East Texas Child Care Services (WSET-CCS) is here to help! Why Child Care? Starting a child care center is a significant undertaking, but it's achievable with the proper guidance and resources. WSET-CCS provides personal insights, practical tips, and expert advice to help you navigate the complexities of launching and managing a successful child care business. Partnering with Workforce Solutions East Texas Child Care Services We understand that turning your dream into reality requires more than passion and determination – it requires support and resources. Here's how WSET-CCS can help: Funding Assistance: Securing funding is often one of the biggest challenges for aspiring child care providers. Our team can guide you through grants and funding streams to support establishing and expanding child care centers. Whether you need help covering startup costs or investing in facility upgrades, we can guide you through the application process and connect you with the resources you need to succeed. Support Services: Starting a child care business involves many tasks, from developing a business plan to navigating regulatory requirements. Our team provides personalized support services to help you confidently tackle these challenges. Experienced staff offers guidance from licensing and accreditation to curriculum development and staff training, ensuring you have the knowledge and resources to operate a high-quality childcare center. Hiring Assistance: Building a team of qualified and dedicated staff is essential for the success of your child care center. Workforce Solutions East Texas offers recruitment and hiring assistance to help you find the right candidates for your organization. Whether you're looking for teachers, caregivers, or administrative staff, their job placement services can connect you with talented individuals who share your passion for early childhood education. Professional Development: Continuous learning and professional development are crucial to staying competitive in the child care industry. Our team provides resources for in-person and online training programs and workshops to help you enhance your skills and knowledge as a childcare provider. Our resources empower you to grow and thrive as a child care provider, from early childhood education best practices to business management strategies. Join Our Community! Are you ready to turn your vision of owning a child care center into a reality? We're here to support you every step of the way. Give us a call or meet with one of our staff members to learn more. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children and families in our community. Let's embark on this exciting journey together!
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