SPARK Childcare Program

New resource for home-based childcare businesses

Childcare SPARK is a first-of-its-kind program that combines expertise from business development, childcare operations, and childhood development organizations into a business accelerator model.

The program assists entrepreneurs who are interested in understanding, launching, operating, and growing home-based childcare businesses. The self-paced program matches participants with mentors who guide them through the process step by step and offer one-on-one mentorship.

SPARK can help connect participants with low-interest loan options to make necessary home repairs required to meet state regulations. SPARK can offer support in navigating the process of identifying resources to help cover costs such as repairs, permits, and inspections.

The Childcare SPARK program was built in Marquette County in partnership with their local community foundation, local ISD, and 4C of the UP (Great Start to Quality), with a mission to help families find childcare to remain or re-enter the workforce.

The Childcare SPARK program is now available across the Upper Peninsula thanks to the efforts of the U.P. Childcare Coalition. SPARK provides education, guidance, and one-on-one licensing support for anyone interested in starting a home-based childcare business.

The SPARK program is offered free to participants thanks to funding from the Early Childhood Investment Corporation.

Please visit childcarespark.com for more information.