Grants, Loans and Smart Start

Occasionally, DHS or other state organizations will offer grants or loans for start-up or enhancement purposes to persons wanting to become a licensed child care provider. The following office may advise you of available grants or loans.

Smart Start Workforce Compensation will allow providers to cover higher staff wages with consistent and predictable base funding, that considers the cost of competitive wages and pays in advance rather than in arrears through a reimbursement model. Providers receiving these grants will be required to pay a specific base wage level, helping them to attract more staff and meet parents' needs for child care at a rate they can afford.