Partnership group to support childcare business owners through state grant
Posted May 6, 2024
Sioux Falls, South Dakota — A partnership group that includes Startup Sioux Falls, Lutheran Social Services (LSS) of South Dakota, Helpline Center, Sioux Falls Thrive/Childcare Collaborative, City of Sioux Falls, and the Sioux Falls Development Foundation has received more than $284,000 through the Community Based Childcare Grant Program from the South Dakota Governor’s Office of Economic Development, which could open hundreds of childcare spots in the community.
“We are thrilled to partner with several community organizations to provide business training support to aspiring in-home childcare business owners. Through this program, we hope to contribute in a small way to the complex challenge of childcare in the Sioux Falls community,” said Sara Lum, vice president of Startup Sioux Falls.
Beginning in June, Startup Sioux Falls will host a CO.STARTERS Care Bootcamp and CO.STARTERS Care Business Program for aspiring childcare entrepreneurs. The two-day weekend bootcamp and the 10-week, cohort-based program are designed to help those interested in starting their own childcare business develop business plans to sustain quality state-licensed childcare in their homes or other suitable locations.
Part of the funds will also support training courses at LSS in childcare and entrepreneurship for multilingual learners of English, in partnership with Startup Sioux Falls.
“LSS is excited to be a partner in this project. This grant will both enhance and increase access to existing education and training offerings at the LSS Center for New Americans, serving more than 600 adult English Learners annually,” said Laura Smith-Hill, education services supervisor with LSS.
Two cohorts facilitated by LSS began their coursework May 1st with 45 participants enrolled. The program has had interest and input from 75 multilingual community members from 14 countries and has the potential to support the opening and expansion of up to 50 family-based daycares. It’s projected this partnership could create up to 91 new, state-licensed, one-person childcare operations and more than 1,000 new childcare openings or slots.
“Addressing the childcare challenges requires many different strategies coming together in a collaborative effort, and these programs through Startup Sioux Falls and LSS are one viable solution to make an impact,” said Mayor Paul TenHaken.
Those interested in applying for the childcare business programs through Startup Sioux Falls can apply online at startupsiouxfalls.com/childcare. Multilingual learners of English can call LSS at 605-731-2000 or text 605-403-7813 to get involved.
Learn more about the CO.STARTERS Care programs and how Startup Sioux Falls is working to expand childcare opportunities in our community.