A community-centered solution to Emmet County's child care shortage
The undersupply of child care in rural Northern Michigan is a systemic issue that impacts parents, prospective parents, local employers and child care providers alike. America's child care system, long devalued, is underfunded and now unsustainable in Emmet County and nationwide — yet we know that quality, affordable, reliable child care is essential for the economic stability of all families.
Launched in 2022 with support from the Petoskey-Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation, the Frey Foundation, and the NCMC Foundation, North Central's Child Care Initiative (CCI) is leading the development of a community-centered plan for a sustainable, viable local child care system in Emmet County, Michigan.
Our Vision: A high-quality, accessible early care and education system that is supported through community connections
You can make a difference in our community!
By supporting NCMC's Child Care Initiative (CCI), your contribution will help create sustainable and equitable access to child care, which relies on a qualified workforce earning a living wage.
Make a Donation Now2026 State of Child Care Executive Summary
2026 The State of Child Care Report
Childcare Landscape Survey Results
Owner & Administrator vs. Teacher & Staff - Survey Response
say their employees struggle to find child care.
spends more than $1,000 per month on child care.
worry their income won't cover their monthly bills.
The Early Childhood Leadership Toolkit
Comprehensive Support for Hiring, Onboarding, Compensating, and Evaluating
Tools for Building Strong Teams: This toolkit was created to support those who work in early childhood education and those interested in joining it.
CCI Publications
Access the latest research and insights from NCMC’s Child Care Initiative
From comprehensive data on child-care availability in Emmet County, to practical resources for providers, families and employers, our publications empower stakeholders with timely information on affordability, capacity, workforce development and quality care.
Meet the Team Behind NCMC's Child Care Initiative
Dedicated to empowering Northern Michigan families through quality early childhood education
Get to know the experts behind North Central’s Child Care Initiative, each committed to fostering a supportive, nurturing environment for our youngest learners.