Andrea Schaut opened Shine Bright on Main daycare in 2025 licensed to provide care for eight children in Coleman.
“I was determined to make quality childcare available in our community,” Schaut said. “We worked with the resources we had, stayed committed to our vision, and found a way to make it happen.”
Schaut found there was enough need to expand and renovate the 2,000-square-foot building. The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation is supporting the $300,000 project with a $147,300 Community Development Investment Grant.
“Childcare is one of the most critical needs of our workforce,” said John W. Miller, secretary and CEO of WEDC, the state’s leading economic development organization. “This Shine Bright on Main renovation and expansion will provide much-needed access to affordable, quality childcare for families in rural Northeastern Wisconsin.”
Once complete, Shine Bright on Main will be licensed to serve 47 kids, age six weeks to 12 years, and will have seven or eight staff members.
The renovation and expansion will include renovating and adding wheelchair-accessible bathrooms, installing a warming kitchen, adding signage, installing new flooring, and upgrading electrical and HVAC. The project is expected to be complete by the end of 2027.
The expanded space will also allow Schaut to offer after-school care.
“This expansion is about creating a better experience for everyone,” Schaut said. “Families will have more convenient care options, and children will have safe, welcoming spaces where they can learn, grow, and thrive.”
While Shine Bright on Main is providing a much-needed option for those seeking childcare, Schaut hopes it also has an impact on the other businesses in downtown Coleman.
“This building sat vacant for a couple of years and bringing something back here is allowing it to thrive,” Schaut said. “Hopefully it has a trickle-down effect on other businesses in the area.”
