Montana Launches $8.5 Million Grants to Boost Childcare Services

Montana is distributing $8.5 million in new grants from the Early Childhood Account to support childcare providers statewide.

The Montana Early Childhood Account, established by House Bill 924 during the 2025 legislative session, is distributing three initial grants aimed at workforce support, training on developmental differences, and expanding infant and toddler care. This initiative addresses ongoing challenges in childcare availability and workforce stability.

One of the grants offers up to $10,000 to help providers open or expand infant and toddler care services, with a total of $8.5 million available. Providers such as Larch Early Childhood Care, serving 33 families, and Exploration Works, which plans to launch infant care in January, are among the beneficiaries. Childcare directors emphasize that funds will support staff pay raises, necessary equipment, and facility renovations to meet licensing requirements. The application window closes Monday, October 26th.

Looking ahead, providers will use these grants to address immediate needs, although the program is not a long-term solution for infant care shortages.

New state grants target childcare workforce, training, and infant care
By Madelyn Heath, KTVH