#United States #Washington, D.C. #Women's Business Centers #Stearns Bank #Childcare Accelerator

Early Results from the WBC Childcare Accelerator Program

Recently, the Association of Women’s Business Centers (AWBC), in collaboration with Stearns Bank, shared promising initial results from the WBC Childcare Accelerator Program. This initiative, launched in the summer of 2025, aims to enhance the operational and financial capabilities of licensed childcare providers across the country. With a notable financial input of $875,000 from Stearns Bank, the program is already showcasing the transformative impact of targeted business support in strengthening the childcare sector.

Positive Trends in Financial and Operational Management

From the initial data gathered from 28 program participants, the results indicate remarkable improvements in their business practices:

• - Financial Tracking Tools: 67% of participants have adopted new financial tracking systems, allowing for better management of their finances.
• - Business Planning: The percentage of providers with a written business plan surged from 42% to 85%, highlighting the significant increase in formal business strategy development, with many developing new plans during the program.
• - Operational Budgeting: Improvements were also seen regarding budget practices; those using monthly operational budgets rose from 34% to an impressive 84%. Alongside this, half of the participants established a budgeting process that was absent before.

Despite these advances, many providers are looking toward future funding opportunities, with 84% forecasting a need for additional resources to support various aspects of their operations such as growth, equipment purchases, and facility upgrades. This highlights a crucial ongoing need for investment within the childcare ecosystem.

Voices from the Ground

The program's influence extends beyond metrics, as participants have shared inspiring feedback regarding their experiences. One provider remarked, “The program helped me transform my small home daycare into a more organized and confident business. I now manage my finances more efficiently, plan for growth, and connect with fellow childcare providers who motivate me daily.” This sentiment illustrates the program's role in fostering community and personal development among providers.

A Collaborative Effort for Nationwide Impact

The WBC Childcare Accelerator Program operates through various Women's Business Center hubs located across the country, including places like Nebraska, Pennsylvania, California, and Minnesota. Each hub provides tailored training, personalized technical assistance, and access to financial guidance, ensuring that local childcare providers receive the support necessary to enhance their services and expand access to quality childcare.

Addressing Sector Challenges

The childcare sector is navigating a tumultuous period characterized by staffing shortages, escalating costs, and slim operating margins. These challenges have made it difficult for providers to meet the rising demand for services. The early data from the Accelerator program suggests that with focused resources and structured support, childcare providers can build sustainable businesses.

As the program progresses, participants will continue to receive technical support from their local Women's Business Centers, and their progress will be reassessed in six months. The ultimate aim is clear: to enhance access to high-quality childcare services for communities that rely on them.

About AWBC and Stearns Bank

The Association of Women’s Business Centers serves as a vital national resource advocating for women's entrepreneurship—supporting a network of over 150 Women's Business Centers (WBCs) across the U.S. These centers offer a wide range of free coaching, networking opportunities, and business resources. On the other hand, Stearns Bank is a majority women-owned financial institution committed to empowering entrepreneurs and small businesses, providing them with necessary tools to succeed economically.

The collaboration between AWBC and Stearns Bank underscores a mutual recognition of the critical role solid childcare infrastructure plays in community development. By investing in the capabilities of childcare providers, they are contributing significantly to the overall economic health and stability of families throughout the nation.