Child Care and Early Education Programs in Alaska

The Steady Child Care: Municipality of Anchorage Child Care and Early Education Sector Stimulus Program is an initiative funded through the Anchorage Child Care and Early Education Fund. This effort represents a collaboration among thread, a nonprofit organization with over 35 years of experience in early childhood education, the Municipality of Anchorage Assembly, the Anchorage Child Care and Early Education (ACCEE) Board, and the Mayor’s Office. The goal of this program is to support the sustainability and stability of child care and early education providers within the Municipality of Anchorage. The program will distribute approximately $2.3 million in 2025 to eligible entities, including child care programs licensed by the Municipality of Anchorage, programs accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA), and legally operating non-relative providers who care for four or fewer children. These funds aim to strengthen the child care sector by mitigating financial strain and enabling programs to continue providing essential services to families in the Anchorage area. Eligible expenditures under this program include rent or mortgage payments, utilities, facility maintenance, insurance, personnel costs and benefits, staff recruitment and retention, professional development, equipment and supply updates, and services necessary to maintain child care operations. Funds may also be used to support mental health services for both children and employees, reflecting a broad understanding of the support required for effective early childhood environments. The application period for the 2025 funding cycle is open from June 9 through July 6, 2025. Applications must be submitted online, with applicants encouraged to use the Google Chrome browser for the best experience. Required documentation varies depending on the applicant’s classification. For example, licensed programs must submit an IRS Form W9, a valid child care program license, and their Alaska Child Care Information System (AKCCIS) number. ACA-accredited programs and non-relative providers must include relevant accreditation or business licenses as applicable. Once the application period closes, thread will begin distributing stimulus payments in August 2025. Participating providers will also be asked to complete a survey to inform future investments and decisions related to child care in the Anchorage region. Technical assistance is available from thread for applicants needing support during the application process. For more information, assistance, or questions, applicants can contact thread at initiatives@threadalaska.org or call 800.278.3723. This funding opportunity presents a critical financial lifeline to ensure the continued operation and development of the local child care and early education sector, reflecting a strategic investment in Anchorage’s families and workforce infrastructure.

Use Google Chrome browser on a desktop or laptop; complete and save a signed W9 form in advance; keep tax documents nearby.