Child Care Economic Development Grants
Forecasted
Child Care Economic Development Grants support Minnesota communities in expanding child care businesses and capacity to reduce local shortages and strengthen economic development.
Funder: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Application)
Funding Amounts: FY26 awards estimated at $50,000–$300,000; performance period approximately 12 months
Summary: Grants support Minnesota communities in expanding child care capacity and reducing shortages that affect local economic development.
Key Information: A local government unit or 501(c)(3) nonprofit must serve as lead applicant and fiscal host.
Description
The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), through its Office of Child Care and Community Services, funds community projects that increase the supply of quality child care and reduce shortages across the state. Supported work includes starting or expanding child care businesses, training, facility modifications, employee retention incentives, and assistance with licensing or other regulatory requirements.
The program prioritizes sustainable investments that create child care capacity beyond the grant period, particularly in communities with documented shortages. DEED also considers the long-term viability of projects, collaboration among community partners, and the ability to complete work within the grant timeline. Individual family, special family, and center-based programs can participate through an eligible lead applicant.
