Community Based Child Care Grant Program

GOED is working to provide opportunities in this two-phase community based child care grant program in South Dakota. Community Based Child Care Grant Program Child Care Grants Awarded In 2024, the South Dakota Governor’s Office of Economic Development and the South Dakota Department of Social Services worked jointly to provide a two-phase funding opportunity for communities to help with solutions to South Dakota child care challenges. The emphasis of this grant program was to provide funds for innovative community-based child care solutions. Many of the projects aimed to expand child care services and provide career pathways to improve the workforce. Through an application process, GOED awarded a total of $1.1M to 28 communities for the planning portion and another $3.8M to 13 communities for the implementation portion of the program. *(This program is now closed. This was a one-time funding opportunity through GOED. For any child care funding questions please contact the SD Department of Social Services.) McIntosh Vermillion Madison McIntosh GOED’s Community-Based Implementation Grant has been instrumental in advancing the McIntosh Child Care Center’s ability to provide quality care and education. With the grant funds they were able to cover key expenses such as licensing fees and teacher training, ensuring the daycare meets state standards and enhances the skills of its staff. Physical upgrades including playground equipment. These investments have helped create a enriching environment for children. In addition to the GOED Implementation Grant, they leveraged this funding to win a $50K USDA Grant, further boosting their resources for expansion and improvement. Other sources of funding have also played a critical role. The SD Community Foundation Grant supported ongoing development efforts. Through overwhelming monetary support from community members, they were able to secure a Governor’s Home for the center, providing a permanent, stable location for operations. These combined efforts enabled the center to become state-licensed, and expand its capacity, increasing the number of child care slots available to support working families. Overall, these investments have significantly enhanced the center’s ability to serve the community and contribute to the well-being of families. Vermillion The childcare grant was transformative for the Vermillion Community. With the funding from the grant and huge buy in from local support, the community was able to come together to resourcefully use the dollars in as many areas as possible with a focus on accessibility, affordability and quality of care. Their community partners included: Head Center, Boys and Girls Club, Vermillion School District, Center for Children & Families, Pulse Child Care, and Sue Galvin. A total of 54 additional childcare slots were added with all their efforts while also upgrading trainings. Additionally, the Vermillion Chamber & Development Company (VCDC) will fund and award up to 3 – $10,000 grants for startup childcares going forward. Madison The grant funds were a vital investment in the future of the Madison community, helping them create a nurturing and secure environment where children can thrive. The City of Madison approved a Tax Increment Financing District within the Lakeview Industrial Park. LAIC will receive property tax revenue generated within the district, a significant contribution that will directly benefit the childcare facility. The new facility will be owned by the LAIC and operated by EmBe. Together, they are dedicated to providing high-quality childcare and early education to children in the community. McIntosh McIntosh