The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced today that it will close applications for Phase 1 of its Child Care Facilities Improvement Program on October 20. Following overwhelming interest in, and demand throughout, Phase 1 of the program the NJEDA plans to open applications for Phase 2 in 2024. This second phase will provide grants to Registered Family Child Care Homes (FCCs) to address facilities improvements.

Since launching in November 2022, the NJEDA has received 528 applications from child care centers across New Jersey that serve over 43,000 children and employ nearly 11,000 members of the vital early childhood workforce. To date, the NJEDA has already approved 79 of those applications for a combined $14.1 million in funding and expects to approve more applications in the coming weeks and months. The first 79 centers approved through the program are located in 19 counties, serve almost 7,000 children – including more than 3,300 infants and toddlers – and employ over 1,800 teachers and administrators. More than 200 contractors registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor have expressed interest in providing work for awarded child care centers. Departments of Labor Registered Public Works Contractors can learn more about the program and submit an interest form here.



No action is needed from the remaining applicants before October 20; their applications are continuing to undergo review. Applicants that have not yet started, or submitted, an application are encouraged to complete the application process by that date.

Phase 1 of the Child Care Facilities Improvement Program provides grants of $50,000 to $200,000 for child care centers to make interior and exterior upgrades and purchase furniture, fixtures, and equipment that will benefit both the children and program staff. A complete list of eligible uses and details on the program can be found at https://www.njeda.gov/child-care-improvement-program/.

About the NJEDA

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.

To learn more about NJEDA resources for businesses, call NJEDA Customer Care at 844-965-1125 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.