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The Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center is now accepting applications for a new home-based childcare provider recruitment program aimed at addressing childcare shortages in rural communities.
The pilot program, which launched on January 1st, is funded by a grant from the Patterson Family Foundation. It focuses on helping individuals start small, home-based childcare businesses that better fit rural workforce realities.
Eligible applicants must be at least 18, hold a high school diploma or GED, reside in one of 25 specified Kansas counties, which include Cloud, Ottawa, and Republic Counties, and operate the childcare facility from their home.
Participants will receive start-up grant funding, mentorship from experienced childcare providers, and ongoing business support from the Innovation Center to promote long-term success.
The program only supports new providers, with a limit of two participants per county. Full details and applications are available on the Innovation Center website, and a free informational webinar will be held on January 29th at 6:30 p.m.
