The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s Office of Childhood is excited to announce applications for the 2025-2026 Innovation Grant to Expand a Child Care Program are now open.

This grant helps licensed and license-exempt child care providers expand their programs in partnership with local businesses or community organizations to meet the growing need for quality child care across Missouri. Eligible applicants with an established partnership can receive up to $625,000 in matching funds to cover expansion expenses, such as equipment, minor remodeling, and workforce incentives. 

Applications will remain open until February 28, 2026. For more information, please see the Innovation Grants web page.