Elevate Rapid City Offers Childcare Grants

Rapid City, South Dakota – A lack of available childcare is one of the contributing factors to the workforce shortage the Rapid City community is facing. Those who want to open or expand a daycare face several barriers, especially when it comes to startup costs. To increase the capacity of available, quality childcare in Rapid City, Elevate Rapid City has $180,000 in grant funds available for existing and would-be providers of all sizes.

The funds must be used to expand the number of spots available through the grantee. This can be through the opening of a new facility, re-opening long-closed rooms, or expanding existing centers. The target ages to be served are infants and school-age but all applications will be considered.

“For months we have conducted surveys and focus groups to better understand the childcare landscape. It comes as no surprise that this is a multi-faceted topic that will take many different approaches to address,” said Laura Jones, housing and community development manager. “We know this grant may not address some of the most pressing needs of existing providers, but we are hopeful that helping even one more person access the quality care they seek can have a lasting impact.”

Interested providers must apply by May 14. Questions regarding the application must be submitted no later than May 7. The application and details can be found at elevaterapidcity.com/grants. This grant was made available through the Governor’s Office of Economic Development as part of Governor Kristi Noem’s Investment Plan for Child Care.

In addition to the grants, Elevate Rapid City has partnered with SDCEO to host business boot camp workshops. These workshops will help new and aspiring providers learn valuable tools such as finance and marketing to maintain a successful business. Details will be available in early May.

About Elevate Rapid City

Elevate Rapid City is a public-private partnership organization leading the economic development and small business efforts in the Black Hills region. We work to elevate the Rapid City region for all with the strong vision of making Rapid City and the Black Hills region the place people want to be. Visit elevaterapidcity.com to learn more.

Childcare Provider Application Details:

• Total of $180,000 available; 3x $10,000 grants available to in-home providers; 3x $50,000 available to group providers and centers
• Funds must be used to expand number of spots, whether opening a new facility, re-opening long-closed rooms, or expanding existing centers
• Target ages to be served: infants & school-age, but all applications will be considered
• Deadline is May 14, 2024 at 5pm MT; Deadline for questions is May 7, 2024 at 3pm MT. For all questions, Conact Laura Jones!
• Uses are limited to the Approved Expenses outlined by SD GOED

Click the button to fill out and submit your application prior to May 14, 2024 at 5pm MT! Childcare Grant Application