Marquette County Childcare Provider Enhancement Grant

The Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP) is pleased to announce the launch of the Marquette County Childcare Provider Enhancement Grant, a new grant program designed to support existing childcare providers in Marquette County by expanding their capacity or enhancing the quality of care they provide. Donor Name: Lake Superior Community Partnership State: Michigan County: Marquette County (MI) Type of Grant: Grant | Reimbursement Deadline: 05/11/2025 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The purpose of this mini-grant program is to support local childcare providers in Marquette County in expanding their capacity, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing the educational experience they offer. Focus Areas  Capacity Expansion Supports efforts to increase the number of children served or enhance service offerings. This may include: Piloting an expansion of hours or services to accommodate additional families, such as extending evening or weekend care. Purchasing equipment (e.g., cribs, tables, seating, playground structures) necessary to safely serve more children. Expanding physical space through minor renovations or modifications to meet licensing requirements for increased capacity. Operational Efficiency Aims to streamline administrative processes and improve daily operations. This may include: Implementing or upgrading childcare management software to enhance enrollment, billing, attendance tracking, or communication with families. Investing in technology such as tablets, computers, or security systems to improve record-keeping, scheduling, or safety measures. Automating manual processes to free up staff time for direct engagement with children. Educational Enhancements Focuses on improving the quality of learning and developmental opportunities. This may include: Acquiring curriculum materials, books, or educational toys to support age-appropriate learning and play. Providing professional development for staff through workshops, certifications, or training programs to enhance teaching skills. Enhancing indoor and outdoor learning environments with materials that promote creativity, problem-solving, and social-emotional growth. Funding Information Total program funding available: $23,000. Maximum grant amount: Up to $5,000. Funds may be used as part of a larger project, but the grant will only cover up to this amount. Smaller grant requests are accepted and encouraged. This grant is intended to be a reimbursement grant. Eligibility Criteria To qualify for funding, applicants must: Be a licensed childcare provider operating in Marquette County, MI Serve at least four children unrelated to the owner/provider. Be in good standing with local and state regulatory agencies. Propose a project(s) or purchase(s) that align with one or more of the program’s focus areas. Not have previously received funding through Marquette County for childcare enhancements Former Childcare SPARK participants are not eligible to receive funds for physical improvements as that was provided under the SPARK program. Such businesses may apply for other purposes. For more information, visit LSCP.