Coastal Enterprises, Inc. has been awarded $1.2 million for the Incubating Child Care Centers in Rural Maine Project, a five-year financing, social enterprise, business development and workforce initiative. 

This project seeks to provide capital and technical assistance to start-up childcare businesses in Maine’s economically disadvantaged rural counties. 

“More than 68 percent of Maine children under age six live in households in which all parents are working,” said Sens. Susan Collins and Angus King in a news release announcing the funding. The senators in August wrote a letter in support of this grant application. “This important funding will propel the Incubating Child Care Centers in Rural Maine Project, sparking job growth and economic development in communities throughout our state that need it most.” 

More than 68 percent of Maine children under age six live in households in which all parents are working, according to a news release from the senators. 

The Incubating Child Care Centers in Rural Maine Project will enable a minimum of 350 parents to work, while also producing 85 newly created jobs.  Employees will also receive training through a registered apprenticeship program that positions them for promotions and wage increases as they earn childcare credentials. 

This funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Community Economic Development Grant Program.