CCR&R helps Iowa child care providers connect with funding resources, business supports, and financial tools that strengthen regulated child care programs across the state.

Funding programs and initiatives support quality improvement, staffing, facility projects, program expansion, and daily operations.

What Is Child Care Funding Support?

Child care funding resources help Iowa providers strengthen and sustain their programs through grants, incentives, wage supports, and operational tools.

Strong child care programs support working families, local businesses, and community growth across Iowa.

Funding support helps programs strengthen operations while continuing to meet the needs of children, families, and staff.

Funding resources can support:

  • Program growth
  • Quality improvement
  • Staff retention
  • Business sustainability
  • Economic development
Little boy feeding teddy bear from bottle

How CCR&R Can Help

Community Development Specialist’s are regional experts dedicated to providing technical assistance to leaders interested in child care solutions. The Community Development Specialist’s are available to provide tools, data, and hands-on support necessary to identify child care gaps and implement sustainable solutions.

Community Development Specialist’s can:

  • Provide local child care data
  • Identify available funding opportunities
  • Understand eligibility requirements
  • Connect with business support resources
  • Access additional Iowa services
  • Facilitate planning meetings

Funding Programs and Opportunities

Explore funding programs that support program growth, improvement, and sustainability.

The Growing Iowa program is to help Licensed centers and Registered Child Development Homes support the regulatory and quality of child care throughout the state of Iowa.

Explore funding opportunities that support business operations, program growth, and child care expansion efforts.

Learn about wage supplement opportunities that support workforce retention and long-term commitment in early childhood programs.

Program eligibility, funding availability, and application details are managed through Iowa AEYC.

Business and Workforce Support Tools

Access tools and resources that strengthen program operations and workforce stability.

Manage administrative tasks and streamline daily operations.

Includes:

  • Billing and invoicing
  • Attendance tracking
  • Enrollment management

CCMS is free through June 30, 2027, to programs participating in Child Care Collaborative of Iowa. CCMS software helps child care providers automate their day-to-day operations.

CCMS Options:

  • brightwheel
  • Playground

Access resources that support workforce development and staff retention.

Includes:

  • Retention strategies
  • Training resources
  • Career supports

EC-PBIS Program wide may offer participation incentives.

Funding Resources for Iowa Communities

Community partnerships and local organizations support child care growth and access across Iowa. Child care plays an important role in workforce development, economic growth, and strong communities.

Providers can connect with local partners, employers, and community initiatives that support expansion, workforce development, and community-based child care solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What funding opportunities are available for Iowa child care providers?

Funding opportunities may include grants, wage supplements, business tools, and program improvement resources. 

How do I apply for child care funding programs?

Application requirements vary by program. Providers should review eligibility criteria and follow application instructions for each opportunity.

What is required for funding eligibility?

Some funding opportunities require providers to be regulated programs or meet participation requirements established by Iowa HHS or partner organizations.

Does this apply to Child Development Homes and centers?

Yes. Some funding opportunities are available to child care centers, preschools, and Child Development Homes.

What support is available through CCR&R?

CCR&R can help providers identify available funding resources, understand eligibility, and connect with additional business support tools.

Person using smartphone to access Iowa Childcare Resource & Referral information on a table.

Still Have Questions?

CCR&R can help you explore funding resources, connect with business support tools, and identify next steps for your program.