New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu has unveiled a $5 million grant initiative named "Child Care Accelerate" designed to support child care providers in developing sustainable business strategies. Partnering with Seed Collective, the state Department of Health and Human Services is spearheading this effort to tackle the pressing issue of affordable child care in New Hampshire, echoing concerns voiced by families nationwide.
The state government sees this grant program as pivotal in fortifying the child care sector and charting its long-term trajectory. By extending assistance and resources to child care providers, New Hampshire aims not only to meet the rising demand for quality child care but also to stimulate economic growth and foster a resilient business landscape. Through the Child Care Accelerate program, providers will have the opportunity to evaluate their business viability, access mentorship from industry experts, and secure grant funding to initiate crucial business initiatives.
New Hampshire launches grant program for state child care providers (The Center Square) – New Hampshire is launching $5 million in grant funding for child care providers to assist them develop a long-term business strategy. The eight-week program, annou…https://t.co/BQaOIbTfoy
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This initiative forms part of a broader state commitment to bolstering child care provision. Since March 2022, the Department has injected over $150 million in federal relief funds into the child care infrastructure, with a significant portion allocated directly to New Hampshire providers. Furthermore, under the American Rescue Plan Act, the department has allocated $29.7 million in discretionary funding to support child care providers.
The pressing need to address the child care deficit in New Hampshire has been magnified by its impact on the workforce, as many parents have been compelled to exit the labor market due to insufficient child care options. Through the Child Care Accelerate program, the state aims to alleviate this strain and cultivate a sustainable child care ecosystem that benefits both families and the economy.