Working together to make child care more accessible

Mission

The Early Learning Innovation Hub creates a space for members of the Kalamazoo Child Care Coalition to partner and collaborate on pilot projects before broader implementation.

The ELIH reduces the burden on any one organization in facilitating pilot programs and requires collaboration through shared leadership and data sharing among KCCC members.

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A Deeper Look

ELIH is built on the belief that child care is a public good, an essential part of education and economic development, and an industry where workers should earn a living wage.

This collaborative approach creates opportunities to learn from pilot projects before considering broader implementation.

Our First Pilot: Smaller-Sized Employer Tri-Share Reimbursement

Michigan's Tri-Share program divides child care costs equally among the state, employer, and employee, reducing eligible families' child care expenses by two-thirds. However, some employers cannot afford to participate because of the employer's required contribution.

ELIH's first pilot aims to address this barrier by:

Reimbursing eligible employers: Covering participating Kalamazoo County employers' portion of Tri-Share child care costs.
Increasing access: Helping more eligible working families benefit from reduced child care costs through existing state funding.
Testing an approach: Exploring whether reimbursement encourages small employers to enroll in Tri-Share.

Want to be part of the first pilot?

Are you a parent or an employer in Kalamazoo County that might qualify? We'd love to hear from you! Whether you're interested in participating or just want to learn more, complete our interest form to get started. You don't need to know if you qualify before reaching out.

Submit an Interest Form

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