Progress Lakeshore has launched a new Child Care Revolving Loan Fund designed to support child care and early childhood education providers as they start or expand their businesses.
The Child Care Revolving Loan Fund offers low-interest, short-term loans to assist child care providers in Manitowoc County with start-up equipment and renovation expenses, particularly those required to meet licensing standards. Loans will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to available funding. Loan amounts are expected to range from $2,500 to $6,000.
“This revolving loan fund helps reduce one of the biggest barriers child care providers face, upfront costs,” said Jamie Zastrow, Progress Lakeshore’s Executive Director. “By investing in child care entrepreneurs, we are also investing in workforce participation, business growth, and long-term economic stability in Manitowoc County.”
This program is made possible through Entrepreneurship Partner Grants from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation. Progress Lakeshore received EPG funding to support the Child Care Accelerator Program, which aims to enhance the availability and quality of child care throughout Manitowoc County.
Progress Lakeshore is also reintroducing Lynn Palama, Community Child Care Development Specialist. Palama works directly with child care providers to help them navigate licensing requirements, access funding opportunities, and connect with local and regional resources.
“Starting a child care business can feel overwhelming,” said Palama. “My role is to help mproviders understand their options, connect them with the right resources, and support them every step of the way.”
Individuals interested in starting or expanding an early childhood education business are encouraged to reach out to Palama at lynn@progresslakeshore.org or 920.482.0540
For more information about starting a child care business or the Child Care Revolving Loan Fund, visit https://www.progresslakeshore.org/start-a-child-care-business/
