Governor announces $10 million innovation grants for new childcare centers

The Missouri State Legislature convened on February 10, 2025, to discuss the state budget, focusing on several key funding initiatives aimed at enhancing childcare and after-school programs.

A significant portion of the meeting centered around the allocation of Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) grants. Legislators highlighted that 12% of these grants must be dedicated to improving quality in childcare services. Among the proposed funding items is a $1.5 million allocation for adult high school childcare, designed to support adults pursuing their high school diplomas.

Additionally, the governor recommended a new decision item for innovation grants totaling $10 million. These grants aim to support the establishment of new childcare centers in partnership with businesses and community organizations. The timeline for these grants was discussed, with officials indicating that startup and construction costs could be covered within the fiscal year 2026, although the actual funding might not be available until fiscal year 2027.

The meeting also addressed the Teach scholarships, which would receive $700,000 in CCDF funding to assist individuals seeking career advancement in education. Legislators discussed the application process for these grants, noting that potential childcare providers must submit applications to become licensed or license-exempt before receiving funds.

In addition to childcare initiatives, the budget included $7 million for after-school programs, which have transitioned from federal funding to state general revenue. This shift allows for greater flexibility in funding additional applicants who may not qualify under federal standards.

Overall, the discussions underscored the state's commitment to enhancing childcare services and after-school programs, with a focus on quality and accessibility for families across Missouri. The next steps involve finalizing the budget allocations and implementing the proposed programs to support the community's educational needs.