Childcare has emerged as a critical focal point in conversations about workforce development and economic growth in Ohio. This was underscored during a recent statewide conference hosted by Wright State University, in collaboration with the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce, Preschool Promise, and the advocacy group Groundwork Ohio. The event, titled “The Workforce Equation: Why Child Care Matters for Ohio Businesses,” attracted over 300 stakeholders, including community leaders, government officials, and business representatives.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine emphasized the fundamental role childcare plays in workforce participation, asserting, “Without the support of families and giving them the help they need, we are not going to be able to advance as a state.” His remarks resonated with many attendees, highlighting the urgency of addressing childcare accessibility and affordability as paramount to both family stability and economic prosperity.
Lynanne Gutierrez, president and CEO of Groundwork Ohio, shared alarming statistics that reveal the scale of the challenge; 61% of women currently outside the labor market indicate they would re-enter if childcare barriers were eliminated. The financial burden of childcare in the state is substantial, with annual costs averaging over ,000 for infants, more than ,000 for toddlers, and nearly ,000 for preschoolers. In addition to these steep prices, rural areas suffer from a significant lack of childcare providers, exacerbating the difficulties faced by families.
A report from Ready Nation revealed that inadequate access to affordable, quality childcare costs Ohio’s economy approximately billion annually due to decreased workforce participation and productivity. Kara Wente, director of the Ohio Department of Children and Youth, articulated the wider implications: “We’re seeing individuals leave the workforce.”
In response to these challenges, a new state initiative aims to unite community and business leaders with the goal of generating sustainable childcare resources for families. This program encourages local entities to identify gaps in childcare availability and devise strategies for closing these gaps with financial support from both the business sector and government agencies.
The Preschool Development Grant is facilitating this collaboration, providing funding for the next two years to bolster public-private partnerships in the childcare sector. This initiative illustrates a growing recognition that quality childcare is not merely a family issue but a pivotal component of a healthy economy, positioning Ohio to emerge stronger and more resilient in the face of ongoing workforce challenges. As childcare continues to shape discussions around economic equity and workforce development, stakeholders are increasingly called to engage in solutions that benefit families and businesses alike.
