Gov. Reynolds Announces $5.2 Million for Child Care and Preschool Partnerships

DES MOINES — Governor Kim Reynolds announced Tuesday that more than $5.2 million in grants will be awarded to expand 19 partnerships between child care providers and preschool programs across Iowa.

The funding comes through the state’s Early Childhood Continuum of Care grant program and is intended to help expand access to full-day care and early learning opportunities for 4-year-olds. The grants will support partnerships between Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program (SWVPP) sites and licensed child care centers.

“By working together to best support the families and children they serve, preschool programs and child care centers can ensure 4-year-olds benefit from full-day care and early learning opportunities,” Reynolds said in a statement. “The types of creative solutions these grants encourage give working parents more options and keep Iowa’s workforce strong.”

The Continuum of Care program encourages collaboration between preschool programs and child care providers to address gaps in full-day care for young children. Funding can be used to expand staffing, extend operating hours, and provide transportation options that help connect families with both preschool and child care services.

The announcement marks the second round of awards through the program. The first round received more than 120 applications, while 39 applications were submitted for the second round.

State officials say the investment is part of the governor’s broader effort to strengthen Iowa’s child care system while helping working families ensure their children enter school prepared to learn.

Grants of up to $300,000 over three years are available through the program. Iowa Health and Human Services issued the request for proposals for the funding, which aims to create seamless, full-day care options for preschool-aged children.

Another round of Continuum of Care grants for child care and preschool expansions is expected to be announced this fall for the 2026–2027 school year.