In an encouraging development for families and communities across Maine, the Child Care Business Lab, a program of Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (CEI), proudly marks its sixth year by celebrating the launch of 15 new child care services. These new providers are set to support a total of 377 children, addressing a pressing need for accessible childcare options in the state. Applications for the upcoming 2026 program will be closing on January 9th.
The initiative, which supports aspiring child care entrepreneurs, has played a pivotal role in the establishment of 50 child care providers since its inception in February 2020. Collectively, these businesses serve a significant number of families, providing licensed care for a total of 1,027 children across various counties. The recent cohort extends its reach into eight different counties, with new providers now operational in regions including Cumberland, Franklin, Hancock, Penobscot, Sagadahoc, Waldo, York, and Androscoggin.
One distinguishing feature of the CEI Child Care Business Lab is its model-agnostic approach, recognizing that the needs of communities can differ greatly. This flexibility has resulted in a diverse array of newly established providers, comprising eight home-based operations, six center-based services, and one nursery school. The ownership of these businesses is equally varied, with operators including solo entrepreneurs, multi-person co-ops, nonprofits, and tribal governments.
For many participants, the journey toward establishing a child care business is transformative, demanding the acquisition of new skills and the navigation of complex processes. Katelyn Gervais from Jay, Maine, shared her experience, stating, “CEI’s Child Care Business Lab helped me realize that owning my own child care can become a reality. I got help with many tasks such as making sure I have all the documents required for licensing, creating handbooks for my child care, and even help with getting a business loan to make my dreams come true!”
All 15 new business owners successfully completed the Child Care Business Lab’s Get Licensed program, which is designed to empower new child care entrepreneurs by helping them navigate the unique challenges of operating in a highly regulated environment. This no-cost, group-based program offers participants essential resources, including assistance with licensing applications, business plans, financial forecasts, and ongoing support through one-on-one business advising.
The next cohort of the Child Care Business Lab: Get Licensed program is set to begin in April 2026. Potential participants interested in starting a home-based child care business or operating from a commercial facility are encouraged to register by completing the program registration form by January 9th at 5:00 p.m.
CEI, a Community Development Financial Institution and nonprofit organization, is dedicated to fostering equitable economic growth by promoting small business ownership and advancing sustainable practices. Throughout its 48-year history, CEI has made significant contributions to the child care sector, offering over $19 million in financing to help create or preserve more than 6,000 child care slots.
For additional information about the Child Care Business Lab and how to apply for the upcoming program, prospective participants are invited to visit CEI’s official website.
