The Flint Hills Community Accelerator (FHCA), an effort of the ongoing Childcare Business Initiative (CBI), a collaborative project led by the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation and the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce is set to open in August 2025, bringing up to 96 new childcare slots annually by supporting eight independently owned childcare businesses.

FHCA will also house Kansas WorkforceONE, the west location for Manhattan Free Clinic, and serve as a training site for Manhattan Area Technical College. The facility will provide classes, licensing support, and business development resources for those pursuing childcare careers.

Applications are now open for the first group of childcare providers. Participants will receive licensing support, business training, mentorship, shared resources, and help transitioning to independent ownership. Learn more or apply at https://www.childcarebusinessinitiative.org/.