Advantage Valley is launching a series of free workshops to help individuals start or grow childcare businesses in southern West Virginia. As part of its “Fostering Advantages for Start-Ups & Entrepreneurial Resurgence in WV†(FASTER WV) initiative, the organization recently hosted a Boone session, and has two more coming in Lincoln, and Clay counties. The sessions are aimed at addressing one of the region’s most pressing barriers to workforce participation: childcare access.
“These workshops have been an incredibly valuable tool for connecting both current and aspiring providers with the resources and information they need to run their businesses more effectively,†said Terrell Ellis, president and CEO of Advantage Valley. “One success story involves a provider we connected with a suitable location, and they’re now preparing to open their doors next month. That connection would not have happened without their participation in the workshop.â€
Supported by grant funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission, the sessions are designed for anyone interested in opening or expanding a childcare center, family care facility, or home-based childcare operation. Attendees will receive step-by-step guidance on how to navigate the regulatory landscape and access funding and technical assistance.
The first workshop took place at Boone Memorial Hospital on June 17. Following are the upcoming dates and locations, all beginning at 6:30 p.m.:
• Lincoln County – July 24 at the Lincoln County Opportunity Company Training Center, 8041 Lynn Ave., Hamlin
• Clay County – August 12 at the WVU Clay County Extension Office, 184 Procious Maysel Road, Clay
Participants will hear from key partners including Connect Resource and Referral, local health departments, the West Virginia State Fire Marshal’s Office, Wonderschool, the West Virginia Small Business Development Center, and Advantage Valley’s FASTER WV team. Topics will include fire code compliance, health inspections, facility layout and design, marketing, business planning, and access to mini-grants and loans.
“Childcare access is a significant barrier to workforce participation,†Ellis said. “With an increasing number of job opportunities across our region, it’s vital that we support those interested in starting childcare businesses.
The workshops are open to both new and existing childcare providers. Advance registration is encouraged and can be completed online at Eventbrite at www.eventbrite.com (search for Advantage Valley in top search bar).
For more information about the workshops and the FASTER WV program, visit www.advantagevalley.com.
