Access to affordable, high-quality childcare is essential to a thriving regional economy. Childcare providers play a critical role in helping working parents stay employed and supporting local businesses, yet many face challenges related to staffing, wages, and business sustainability.
To help providers navigate available tools and programs, we’ve compiled a list of business and employer resources designed to strengthen the childcare sector. These offerings include funding opportunities, wage support programs, consulting services, and benefits platforms that make it easier to attract and retain childcare staff while maintaining high-quality care.
Explore the options below to find support that best fits your organization’s needs.
Business Resources
Nurture Benefits
Employee Benefits Platform
Affordable medical, dental, vision, and retirement benefits for childcare workers. Helps attract and retain staff.
IFF Capital Solutions
Flexible Lending / Capital Access
Loans from $10K to $6.5M+ for facility upgrades, real estate, and equipment. Tailored for nonprofits and community organizations.
Michigan SBDC
Business Consulting & Training
Free support with business planning, financial management, market research, and HR.
SizeUp SPARK
Market & Business Data
Free tool to benchmark against competitors, explore customer demographics, and assess wages/market trends.
Microloan Programs
Financing for Small Businesses
Microloans ($5K–$50K) to support working capital, equipment purchases, or facility improvements.
Early Educator Wage Sustainability Pilot
Wage Support for Childcare Providers
More to Come: Wage support grant forthcoming this year
First Children’s Finance MI: No-Cost Business Consultation
Business Consulting
Start-up or expansion support, business and financial assessments, business improvement plans, and more.
Employer Resources
MI Tri-Share Child Care
Shared Cost Program
Childcare costs split three ways: employer, employee, and the state. Reduces family burden, improves retention.
BCG Report – Childcare Benefits ROI
Research / Business Case
Childcare benefits can generate high ROI (up to 425%) by reducing turnover and improving productivity.
U.S. Chamber – Federal Childcare Guide for Employers
Policy & Program Overview
Explains federal childcare programs, employer options, and compliance considerations.
Additional Resources
Childcare Specialist Registered Apprenticeship Program
No Cost Certification Program for Childcare Staff
U.S. Department Labor Certification program with mentoring, live in-class training hours, and support with completing the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
CPR/First Aid/AED Training
On-site at Program Site or at Local CCN Offices
Low-cost CPR/First Aid Training/AED training that meets licensing requirements.
Great Start to Quality Southeast Resource Center
Support for Childcare Providers and Staff
Coaching and consultation on quality improvement efforts that could improve access to stronger income streams.
