Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled two initiatives aimed at revolutionizing child care in New York State, backed by a staggering $100 million in combined funding. The initiatives not only address the critical need for accessible child care for families but also present unique opportunities for businesses to contribute to their employees’ well-being.
Child Care Capital Program (CCCP): Building Foundations for Future Generations
The cornerstone of Governor Hochul’s announcement is the $50 million allocated for the Child Care Capital Program (CCCP). This program intends to provide grants ranging from $500,000 to $1.5 million to eligible child care providers, encouraging the expansion of existing centers or the construction of new ones. This initiative, overseen by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) and administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), is a strategic step towards meeting the increasing demand for child care services across the state.
The CCCP grants cover a spectrum of expenses, including design, construction, rehabilitation, and equipment for state-licensed, not-for-profit, or for-profit child day care centers and registered school-age child care programs. To ensure sustainability, funded projects must be ready for construction, fully operational within six months of completion, and intended for child care purposes for at least eight years.
To access the CCCP grant, interested applicants must prequalify through the New York State Grants Gateway, with final applications accepted until May 22, 2024. Successful awardees will be announced on or after July 15, 2024.
Child Care Creation and Expansion Tax Credit: Empowering Businesses for a Family-Friendly Workplace
Complementing the CCCP, the second initiative involves $50 million in business tax credits under the Child Care Creation and Expansion Tax Credit program. Businesses within New York State are encouraged to create or expand licensed or registered child day care seats for their employees’ infants or toddlers, either directly or through a third-party.
Eligible businesses must also limit costs for child care expenses to their employees. The application window for tax credits for child care seats created in 2023 opens on January 1, 2024, and closes on January 31, 2024. This initiative is a win-win, supporting both businesses and working families in navigating the challenges of child care.
How to Get Involved and Stay Informed
Any questions regarding this grant should be submitted via the CCCP Survey link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CCCP2023. For technical questions regarding Grants Gateway contact GrantsReform@its.ny.gov or (518) 474-5595. An informational webinar about the CCCP is scheduled for January 24, 2024, and potential applicants are strongly encouraged to attend. Additional details will be available on the Child Care Services page of the OCFS website.
Businesses interested in the Child Care Creation and Expansion Tax Credit can find more information on the websites of the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) or the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance (DTF).
