Applications open to licensed childcare facilities across 26 Northwest Kansas counties
NORTON, Kan. — The Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center, Inc. (Innovation Center) and the Dane G. Hansen Foundation are pleased to announce the Fall 2026 NWKS Childcare Grant Opportunities, providing financial support to licensed childcare facilities throughout Northwest Kansas.
The grant programs are designed to strengthen childcare operations by supporting staff retention and helping providers address facility, equipment, maintenance and programming needs.
Eligible applicants include KDHE-licensed childcare facilities located in Cheyenne, Cloud, Decatur, Ellis, Ellsworth, Graham, Gove, Jewell, Logan, Lincoln, Mitchell, Norton, Osborne, Ottawa, Phillips, Rawlins, Republic, Rooks, Russell, Saline, Sheridan, Sherman, Smith, Thomas, Trego and Wallace counties.
“Childcare providers are essential to the strength of our communities and our regional workforce,” said Dana Jo Stanton, Childcare Program Specialist with the Innovation Center. “These grants are one way we can help providers invest in their staff, facilities and programs so they can continue providing quality, reliable childcare for Northwest Kansas families.”
Two Types of Grant Support
Early Childhood Education Staff Support Grant
This grant provides financial recognition for childcare staff, helps reduce costs associated with employee turnover, and supports a more stable childcare workforce.
Facility and Program Support Grants
The Enhancement Grant, administered by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, and the Multi-Purpose Grant, administered by the Innovation Center, help childcare facilities (including licensed home-based facilities) address needs related to equipment, facility maintenance and programming.
How to Apply
Application processes are based on the facility’s business structure.
- For-profit childcare facilities (including licensed home-based facilities) should apply through the Innovation Center. Program descriptions, eligibility requirements and applications are available at https://nwkeici.org/what-we-do/childcare/childcare-grants/.
- Nonprofit childcare facilities with 501(c)(3) status should apply through the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. Program descriptions, eligibility requirements and applications are available at https://danehansenfoundation.org/grants/nw-kansas-cares-for-kids/.
Applicants must meet program eligibility requirements, and facilities may apply for these grants once per year. Grants are competitive, and funding is not guaranteed.
Applications for the fall grant cycle are due October 25, 2026.
For questions about for-profit childcare grant opportunities, contact Innovation Center Childcare Program Specialist Dana Jo Stanton at danajstanton@nwkeici.org or 785-874-5150.
For questions about nonprofit childcare grant opportunities, contact Hansen Grant Coordinator Kyra Reese at kyra@danehansenfoundation.org or 785-689-4832.
About the Innovation Center
The Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center, Inc. works to empower businesses and communities across Northwest Kansas by connecting the region with resources, programs and opportunities that support economic growth and long-term sustainability.
About the Dane G. Hansen Foundation
The Dane G. Hansen Foundation works to improve the quality of life for residents of Northwest Kansas through partnerships and investments that strengthen communities throughout the region.