Emma Bostwick
Vice President of Business Attraction
Capital Area Child Care Coalition
The Capital Area Child Care Coalition (CACCC) is a regional partnership working to improve the availability, affordability, and quality of child care in Eaton, Clinton, and Ingham Counties. We believe child care is essential infrastructure—vital to families, foundational to the workforce, and key to a stronger economy. Founded in 2023 with support from the ECIC Innovation Fund, CACCC brings together parents, providers, employers, and local leaders to identify challenges and implement practical, community-driven solutions.
As a collaborative network, we focus on building strong partnerships that support long-term change. Whether you’re a parent, provider, policymaker, or business leader, there’s a role for you in shaping a child care system that works for everyone.
Why Child Care Matters in the Capital Area
30,000+
children under five in the region
$10,568
per year average cost of center-based care
41%
of a minimum-wage family’s income goes to care
77%
of providers report staffing shortages
5
children under age two for every available infant care spot
Coalition Impact Highlights
74
coalition members from all sectors
7+
regional meetings and community events
348+
residents engaged through feedback
$340K+
in funding secured
17
providers receiving direct support
“We all have degrees related to child care or education, but what is missing in those degrees is the business management support - we have no formaI business support.”
Who We Serve
Child care impacts everyone—from the families who rely on it, to the providers who deliver it, to the employers and community leaders working to build a stronger economy. That’s why CACCC offers dedicated resources and ways to get involved for every group connected to care.
Choose your path to explore resources and get involved:
Understanding the Coalition
What is the Capital Area Child Care Coalition (CACCC)?
CACCC is a regional partnership working to improve access to affordable, high-quality child care across Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties. It brings together families, providers, employers, and community leaders to drive policy, workforce, and business development solutions.
What problems is the region facing?
There are significantly more children in need of care than licensed spots. High costs, limited hours, and staffing shortages make child care difficult for families and providers alike.
How is it funded?
The CACCC was established through a grant from the Early Childhood Investment Corporation (ECIC) and is supported by local organizations, including LEAP, Capital Area Michigan Works!, and the United Way of South Central Michigan.
What does membership involve?
Coalition members participate in meetings, provide feedback, and help guide action strategies. Participation is flexible—members can stay engaged through updates or take on more active roles in working groups and planning efforts.
Who can participate?
Child care professionals, parents, employers, economic developers, and community leaders are all encouraged to join the coalition.
