Challenges

Access, Worker Issues

Location

Montana

Stakeholders

Businesses, Nonprofits, State Government

Beneficiaries

Families, Childcare Providers

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Overview

Funders for Montana’s Children is an organization that partners with nonprofit institutions to explore business-led solutions to childcare through in-depth research, presenting success stories, convening leaders, and awarding grants.

Key Impact Metrics

  • 6
    member foundations
  • 300
    business leaders presented with critical research and data on childcare

Problem

In Montana, the economy loses $232 million annually due to inadequate childcare, ranking 40th in the nation in childcare availability. 57% of businesses reported a shortage of affordable childcare options in their community—and 60% felt that childcare should be a priority. While business growth is impacted by inadequate childcare, it also cripples some families—the average annual cost for childcare in Montana is $12,750, and employee absences are common. Proper, well-developed childcare has been scientifically and economically proven to yield high returns on investment, as the early years of brain development are the most important for any child. And yet, businesses and nonprofits rarely come together to develop mutually beneficial childcare solutions.

Solution

Funders for Montana’s Children (FMC) was established in 2014 to address the limited availability of childcare resources in Montana. As a collaborative funding initiative, FMC pools resources and awards joint grants to support innovative ideas and actions from businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations. It also advances research and advocacy efforts around childcare. Notably, FMC partnered with the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis to study and present key data on childcare’s economic impact, and convened Montana business leaders for strategic planning. Additionally, FMC showcases regional success stories to inspire and guide similar efforts across the state.

Results

  • Beneficiary Impact
    300 business leaders provided with accurate research and critical resources on the impacts of childcare issues on business

Replication Tips

  • Identify key local nonprofits, foundations, businesses, individuals, and local banks that are vested in improving childcare.
  • Develop a collaborative governance structure to guide decision-making and strategy.
  • Identify shared priorities and pool resources for greater impact.
  • Invest in data collection and evaluation to measure progress and inform future efforts.
  • Engage community stakeholders to ensure programs address real needs.
  • Promote transparency in funding decisions and outcomes.
  • Share successes and lessons learned to inspire broader support and replication.

Suggested Implementation Timeline

~14-18 months

Sources