EXCERPT: “Today, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has launched the latest round of Child Care Economic Development Grants. These grants authorize $5 million over the next two fiscal years for grants to local communities to increase quality child care providers to support economic development across Minnesota. A total of $2.5 million will be available in this first round with a second round of funding being available before June 2022. DEED is seeking proposals from local governments or nonprofits with experience in the operations, financing, advocacy, or advancement of the delivery of child care services. Qualified parties may request up to $300,000 in state funds for this program. ‘We consistently hear that a lack of quality child care is one of the major hurdles preventing the growth of our workforce,’ said DEED Commissioner Steve Grove. ‘We’re excited these grants will address the child care shortage, helping parents pursue their careers and support their families.'” FULL STORY: https://fluence-media.co/3BBlzgF