Marquette County Childcare Provider Enhancement Grant 

The Marquette County Childcare Provider Enhancement Grant is a one-time grant program designed to support existing childcare providers in Marquette County by adding capacity or enhancing the quality of their services. This grant is separate from, but supplements, the work being done through the Childcare SPARK program to open new childcare businesses.  

Existing childcare providers located in Marquette County, who have not previously received childcare provider grants from Marquette County, and are currently providing care for at least four children not related to the owner(s)/operator(s) may apply for up to $5,000 for any of the following activities:

Capacity Expansion 

Supports efforts to increase the number of children served or enhance service offerings. This may include: 

• Piloting an expansion of hours or services to accommodate additional families, such as extending evening or weekend care. 

• Purchasing equipment (e.g., cribs, tables, seating, playground structures) necessary to safely serve more children. 

• Expanding physical space through minor renovations or modifications to meet licensing requirements for increased capacity. 

Operational Efficiency 

Aims to streamline administrative processes and improve daily operations. This may include: 

• Implementing or upgrading childcare management software to enhance enrollment, billing, attendance tracking, or communication with families. 

• Investing in technology such as tablets, computers, or security systems to improve record-keeping, scheduling, or safety measures. 

• Automating manual processes to free up staff time for direct engagement with children. 

Educational Enhancements 

Focuses on improving the quality of learning and developmental opportunities. This may include: 

• Acquiring curriculum materials, books, or educational toys to support age-appropriate learning and play. 

• Providing professional development for staff through workshops, certifications, or training programs to enhance teaching skills. 

• Enhancing indoor and outdoor learning environments with materials that promote creativity, problem-solving, and social-emotional growth. 

This is a reimbursement grant, and projects must be completed and requests for reimbursement must be submitted by June 25, 2025. For complex projects, the LSCP may grant additional time with appropriate monitoring.  

Applications will be accepted starting at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, April 21, and will close at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, May 11, 2025. Decisions will be communicated by May 19. Full details can be found in the grant program guidelines below. Ready to apply? Click the button below to access the application.