The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) announce the latest Request for Proposals (RFP) round for Child Care Economic Development Grants. These investments enable community partners to increase the number of quality child care providers serving their regions and support economic development across Minnesota. A total of $1.425 million will be available.
DEED seeks proposals from local governments or nonprofits with experience in the operation, financing, advocacy or advancement of the delivery of child care services. Qualified parties may request up to $300,000. To be eligible for the maximum amount, the proposal must be used to expand child care capacity at a minimum of two locations. The maximum amount a single location proposal can request is $100,000.
Individual child care providers, both centers and family-based, seeking investments to establish new operations or expanding existing operations are encouraged to partner on their request with local or regional organizations with experience in the planning or financing of child care facilities.
Grants can be used for child care business startups or expansions, training, facility modifications, direct subsidies or incentives to retain employees, or improvements required for licensing, and assistance with licensing and other regulatory requirements.
Applicants that are licensed providers must demonstrate their license is in good standing at the time of application. Non-licensed child care providers are not eligible, unless they are using the funds as part of a project to obtain a license. If an applicant is using the grant to obtain a license, they must submit proof when their license is obtained. Applications must be received no later than 4 p.m. Central Time, March 17. Award recipients will be notified in May.
Questions can be submitted by email to [email protected].
