The EmpowerHer Child Care Business Accelerator is an 8-week training and mentorship program designed to help family child care educators launch, grow, and strengthen their businesses. Through expert-led sessions, one-on-one coaching, and peer networking, participants gain the tools, insights, and confidence needed to succeed as entrepreneurs in the child care industry.
Graduates of the EmpowerHer Child Care Business Accelerator who meet all participant criteria and eligibility requirements outlined below will be eligible to receive a $10,000 small business award, issued directly by Stearns Bank.*
The EmpowerHer Child Care Business Accelerator is more than a program—it’s your launchpad to elevate your child care business, tap into a vibrant community of changemakers, and access the tools, knowledge, and funding you need to thrive.
What to Expect:
8 weeks of interactive virtual training (2 hours per week), led by experienced family child care experts
Personalized mentorship beginning in Week 5 with seasoned FCC educators
Opportunities to connect, collaborate, and grow with peers and national leaders
Continued support to fuel your growth, confidence, and leadership journey
Participant Criteria & Eligibility Requirements:
Open a business account with Stearns Bank (grant funds will be disbursed via direct deposit).
Complete a demo of the Autobooks software with Stearns Bank (no purchase required).
Complete both the pre- and post-program participant data surveys.
Maintain an active NAFCC membership upon acceptance into the program.
Be a current family child care educator operating in a residential setting within the U.S.
Provide proof of a valid state or local FCC license in the name of the program and/or educator.
Intend to expand your program within six months of completing the accelerator (by mid-November).
Attend all 8 weeks of virtual training and complete all assignments; one excused absence is allowed for extenuating circumstances (e.g., illness, bereavement).
Submit a final business plan and itemized grant budget for NAFCC approval.**
Participate in one pre- and one post-program follow-up within 12 months.
Priority for participation will be given to individuals who have completed the NAFCC Business Series and/or the NAFCC LSL Fellowship Program.
**Final Business Plan Submission – Definition:
A practical and easy-to-follow roadmap detailing how you plan to grow your family child care program. Your plan should include a description of your program, the community need you aim to address, specific growth goals, a budget outlining how the $10,000 will be used, and clear action steps for strengthening your business over the next six months.
Program Timeline:
Sep 2–6: Applications open.
Sep 6–13: Applications close.
Sep 15–20: Applicant interviews.
Sep 29–Oct 4: Program Kick-off.
Oct–Nov: Weekly sessions (8 total) + mentorship starting on week 5
Nov 10–15: Graduation Celebration!
Training Sessions Outline:
Week 1: Understanding the Child Care Landscape and Business Model. Child Care Licensing Process
Week 2: Introduction to Financial Literacy (Accounting & Bookkeeping). Financial Statements, Budgets, and Cash Flow Management
Week 3: Crafting a Winning Business Plan
Week 4: Developing Growth Strategies for Child Care Business
Week 5: Exploring Funding Sources & Crafting a Business Pitch
Week 6: Operations Essentials. Costing, Pricing, and Tools
Week 7: Risk Management and Sustaining Growth
Week 8: Graduation
*Grant & Tax Information:
The $10,000 award is considered taxable income. Participants will be issued a Form 1099 for IRS reporting and compliance. All participants are required to have a valid Tax Identification Number (TIN or SSN/EIN) in order to receive funds. Please consult a tax professional for guidance on how this income may affect your individual or business tax filing.
