Connecticut Expands Early Childhood Education Capacity

Connecticut is taking a major step toward strengthening its childcare infrastructure and supporting the state’s workforce.

Gov. Ned Lamont announced the state will add up to 1,000 new spaces to the Early Start CT program beginning in January—marking the largest expansion of early childhood education in Connecticut history.

Funded through the Connecticut Early Childhood Education Endowment, the move aims to improve childcare access for working families and support the state’s workforce by helping parents—particularly women—return to work.

“Access to these services strengthens families, enables parents to participate in the workforce, and helps children begin their lives learning the skills needed to achieve professional success in the future,” Gov. Ned Lamont said.

Addressing Barriers

Childcare continues to be a top workforce barrier for employers across the state.

Nearly 60% of employers told CBIA’s 2025 Survey of Connecticut Businesses that access to affordable, quality childcare is important for attracting and retaining employees. 

“When families can rely on stable and affordable childcare, our economy benefits significantly,” CBIA policy director Danielle Cloud said.

“When families can rely on stable and affordable childcare, our economy benefits significantly.

CBIA’s Danielle Cloud

“This expansion not only assists working families, but it also supports employers who are trying to grow in a very competitive labor market.”

Administered by the Office of Early Childhood, Early Start CT serves infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school age children from income eligible families.

The recent expansion increases capacity in communities where the shortage is most severe.

“This bold investment is good for families, good for childcare programs and its workforce, and good for Connecticut’s economy now and in the future,” Early Childhood Interim Commissioner Elena Trueworthy said.

Workforce Opportunities

In addition to new slots, providers will receive an 8% increase in provider payments, a $10 million investment designed to improve wages and reduce turnover.

This improved compensation is intended to improve stability in the childcare ecosystem.

Childcare programs across the state commonly cite hiring and retention challenges as one of the greatest threats to maintaining capacity.

“By connecting long term investment to a dedicated endowment, the state is signaling a sustained commitment to supporting families, strengthening the talent pipeline, and bolstering Connecticut’s overall economic competitiveness,” Cloud said.

Applications Opening

The Office of Early Childhood will launch a request for applications from childcare providers to apply for the Early Start CT spaces.

Programs awarded spaces must participate in the Elevate quality improvement system, join the Child and Adult Care Food program, and enroll families that meet income eligibility requirements.

The Office of Early Childhood will distribute $19 million in state contracts from January 2026 through June 2027.