The Our Strong Start program will help the state reach its goals of opening 1,000 new child care programs by the end of 2024. | Gov. Gretchen Whitmer/Facebook
The Our Strong Start program will help the state reach its goals of opening 1,000 new child care programs by the end of 2024. | Gov. Gretchen Whitmer/Facebook
Michigan has established a new program for those who want to establish child care businesses.
According to a news release, the Our Strong Start project would accelerate child care programs by streamlining the licensing process and providing working families with more child care options.
“As a mom, I know the importance of high-quality, affordable child care,” Michigan Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said in the release. “While we’re working to lower child care costs for families and expand access to early learning programs, like 4-year-old preschool, there are still too many working families struggling to find child care that meets their needs and budget. That’s why I’m proud that we’re taking action to make it easier for entrepreneurs to work with (the) state government to open more child care programs across Michigan.”
Whitmer adds that the program coincides with Caring for MI Future and expects 1,000 additional daycares by 2024. Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs’ Child Care Licensing Bureau will aid entrepreneurs when trying to secure funding for their establishment.
“It is critical to support child care entrepreneurs and expand access to high-quality, affordable child care,” Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II said. “Today’s announcement will help more child care entrepreneurs develop and grow their businesses, obtain the resources they need to succeed and connect with grant funds. It will ensure that more parents and families can access child care in their communities. Gov. Whitmer and I are proud of the work we have done to invest in childcare in communities across Michigan, and we will continue working hard to boost access to affordable childcare.”
“The Our Strong Start provided invaluable assistance in navigating the process to start my family child care business,” Donyeal Sizemore, a childcare entrepreneur in Southeast Michigan, said. “I’m planning my grand opening and am grateful that the Our Strong Start was there to help me every step of the way.”
Those interested in assistance can contact the program to receive information during the business project process.
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