Childcare is increasingly recognized not simply as a family responsibility, but as a critical component of workforce and economic stability. Across the country, business leaders, policymakers, and childcare providers are finding new ways to work together, driven by a shared understanding that access to affordable, high-quality care directly affects labor force participation, productivity, and economic growth.
The Early Childhood and Business Advisory Council (ECBAC) convenes these stakeholders to develop action-oriented strategies that reflect both employer needs and family realities. Through this model, states are not only identifying challenges, but advancing practical solutions built on collaboration.
Bringing the Right Voices to the Table
A defining feature of ECBAC is its ability to convene leaders who do not often work side by side. By design, it creates space for business executives, childcare providers, and public sector leaders to align around shared goals.
In Alabama, this approach has reshaped how stakeholders engage with one another. As Shannon Parker, director of strategic relations at the Business Council of Alabama explains, ECBAC has created an environment where leaders can move beyond isolated discussions and work toward solutions informed by shared data.
That data-driven collaboration has helped accelerate progress. Once employers gained a clearer understanding of how childcare gaps intersect with workforce challenges, many began to engage more directly in identifying solutions.
Similarly, in Arkansas, ongoing collaboration between business and early childhood stakeholders has reinforced the value of sustained engagement. As Brandom Gengelbach, president and CEO of the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce underscores, bringing these groups together has strengthened alignment and highlighted how limited interaction had previously been.
From Awareness to Action
As understanding deepens, states are translating collaboration into tangible policy and programmatic solutions.
In Alabama, cross-sector engagement led to the passage of a state childcare tax credit designed to incentivize employer investment. The effort brought together stakeholders across business, government, and advocacy organizations—resulting in swift alignment and broad support.
The state has also pursued innovative approaches to increasing supply. Partnerships between agencies and education systems are helping expand childcare capacity by supporting construction and facility development—addressing gaps that traditional funding sources can’t fully cover.
In Arkansas, leaders are exploring similar strategies, including proposed tax incentives for employers who invest in childcare solutions for their workforce. These efforts reflect a broader shift toward policies that recognize the role employers can play in expanding access and affordability.
A Workforce and Economic Priority
These developments underscore a broader reframing of childcare as a workforce issue. Employers are increasingly recognizing that gaps in access affect their ability to recruit and retain talent, maintain productivity, and support business growth.
As Parker notes, employers in Alabama are seeing the direct connection between childcare challenges and outcomes such as absenteeism and turnover.
This shift in perspective is prompting businesses to think more strategically about their role—whether through direct investment, partnerships, or policy engagement. It also reflects a growing understanding that childcare is foundational to a functioning labor market.
“What was once considered a personal or family matter is now understood as a core workforce infrastructure issue,” Parker said.
Key Lessons from State Experience
As states continue to advance their work, several key lessons are emerging:
- Start with shared data and clear outcomes. Establishing a common understanding of the problem enables faster alignment and more focused action.
- Engage employers as partners and champions. When business leaders actively participate, solutions gain broader support and momentum.
- Build flexible, locally informed approaches. Needs vary by region and industry, requiring tailored strategies rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.
- Sustain cross-sector collaboration. As Faye Nelson, deputy commissioner of the Alabama Department of Human Resources emphasizes, lasting progress depends on continued coordination among stakeholders working toward shared goals.
Looking Ahead
The work underway across states demonstrates both the urgency of the challenge and the potential of collaborative solutions. By bringing business into the conversation—and equipping leaders with data, partnerships, and actionable strategies, ECBAC is helping states move from awareness to implementation.
This approach is creating a stronger foundation for workers, families, and employers alike. As efforts continue to evolve, the emphasis will remain on expanding what works while adapting to local needs.
Organizations interested in learning more about this work or exploring opportunities to partner can visit the Early Childhood and Business Advisory Council page.
About the author
Joseph Davis
Joseph Davis is communications director at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
