Governor's Conference on Economic Development
Expanding or relocating?
SIOUX FALLS, SD – Today, the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) announced multiple recipients of Governor Kristi Noem’s Investment Plan for Child Care.
“These grants will help parents expand their child care options,” said Governor Kristi Noem. “Our kids and grandkids are our future. And we will always do all we can to support South Dakota families. I am proud that we are able to provide these families with even more resources.”
Twenty-eight planning grants have been awarded across the state, totaling $1.13 million for these entities. The funds will be used to expand child care opportunities across South Dakota through innovative strategies and detailed plans.
Applicant ideas included creating career pathways to improving child care workforce, creating coalitions and partnerships, offsetting costs, and creating a business accelerator for potential owners of child care centers.
“So many communities have reached out to us about the lack of child care. We wanted to help, and this program has been a step in the right direction,” said GOED Commissioner Chris Schilken. “This was a competitive grant, and we had a lot of applicants. We are excited to announce the recipients for the planning phase.”
Recipients awarded:
Partner Relations Director Joe Fiala explained that the number of applications that came in show the true need of child care services.
“Organizations across all corners of the state reached out to us during this entire process. This solidifies our knowledge that we need more child care. We are looking forward to working with these 28 entities and helping families across the state,” said Fiala.