Applications will open on January 2nd, 2026. Please be sure you are filling out the childcare provider application when applying.

Purpose

Thank you for applying! The purpose of this funding is to increase the number of childcare slots available for Wyoming families in high-need communities by:

• Offsetting start-up costs for new/start-up childcare businesses. In this instance, a start-up/new childcare business is defined as open one year or less. 
• Offsetting other associated costs for established businesses whose aim is to increase enrollment capacity.   

Eligibility

• Applicants must be located in high-need areas of Wyoming (zip codes and map areas to come).
• Applicants must be licensed, working toward licensure, or must accept childcare subsidies.  
• Applicants may be nonprofit or for-profit entities.  
• Applicants not previously awarded childcare start-up funds in 2025.
• Priority will be given to:  

1. 1. Childcare business start-ups in a designated high-need area. New/start-up businesses that have opened within the last year (based on application deadline) and those planning to open within a year of submitting an application will be considered.
   2. Existing providers looking to expand capacity and enrollment in a designated high-need area.
   3. Childcare businesses accepting or planning to accept childcare subsidies.
   4. Childcare businesses with business plans.

• Other applicants may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Additional Benefits:   

We understand that to be a successful childcare business it’s important you have access to resources and support that serve your needs now and in the future.   

We’re happy to share that by submitting this application, you will be automatically connected with free support services from groups that are here for YOU. We HIGHLY encourage you to access these services prior to applying: The Wyoming Early Childhood Professional Learning Collaborative, WY Small Business Development Center, and the Wyoming Women’s Business Center. You will receive follow-up communication from each organization. Participation is mandatory for awardees.

Timeline

• The grant portal will close on March 1, 2026. Announcements of awards will be made by April 1, 2026. 
• Applications will be accepted until funds are exhausted.

Funding Request

More than one award is anticipated; thus, requests must not exceed $20,000.00 per applicant. Grants will be distributed until funds are expended. Requests exceeding this amount will not be considered. An award may be made in whole or in part.

Scope: Funding can support a wide array of needs; however, applicants should prioritize those items essential to opening or expanding their services, such as safety equipment, furniture, or facility improvements, before requesting enhancements like technology or play/educational materials. 

Examples of requests include but aren’t limited to:  

• Materials or improvements necessary to meet licensure requirements
• Push bar exits
• Replacing entry and exit doors and/or related hardware (e.g., doorknobs)
• Fencing
• Green Space
• Indoor and outdoor safety and accessibility renovations, including lighting and ventilation improvements, smoke and carbon monoxide detector installation or repair, childproofing measures, ramp installation, deck or stair repairs, and more.  
• Modifications to assist children and families with disabilities
• Kitchen equipment
• Child health and safety items, such as approved safe sleep surfaces, gates, locks for cabinets or other unsafe spaces, approved fireplace covers, and food handling and storage items, etc.

Funds may not be used for: 

• Construction (other than renovations described above)
• Purchase of land, buildings, or vehicles
• Emergency purposes
• Backfilling revenue shortfalls
• Employee wages

Please contact Micah Richardson (Micah@wycf.org) with questions.