Wisconsin’s “Partner Up!” Cost-Sharing Childcare Program

Wisconsin's Partner Up childcare program was created to address a severe childcare crisis that was causing significant economic and workforce challenges across the state. With a lack of staff, childcare providers are stuck closing more classrooms and serving fewer children while watching their waitlist continue to grow. This is causing parents, especially women, to leave or not enter the workforce, costing Wisconsin at least $1.1 billion per year in lost economic activity. Across Wisconsin, businesses are experiencing historic challenges in recruiting and retaining their workforce, while our families are facing barriers in locating accessible and affordable childcare. And childcare businesses are struggling to retain experienced staff. The shortage was particularly acute in some areas, with Marathon County losing more than half of its regulated childcare providers over just a few years. Additionally, despite the childcare workforce having various levels of higher education, they get paid about 20% less than the typical Wisconsin worker with only a high school degree.

• Target employer recruitment: Work with business chambers and economic councils to raise awareness and onboard diverse employers.
• Data-driven storytelling: Use participation data and family testimonials to make the case for sustained or expanded funding.