Read our National Commission’s Statement of Principles
United WE is proud to share meaningful progress in our research and advocacy efforts to tackle childcare challenges impacting women entrepreneurs. This month has brought exciting developments, garnering national attention and paving the way for a more supportive environment for women pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams.
Our National Commission on Childcare and Women's Entrepreneurship, established through a Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation grant, recently released its Statement of Principles. This document outlines a comprehensive framework for policymakers and stakeholders to address the unique childcare barriers faced by women in business. Released during "Takes Heart: A Celebration of Women Entrepreneurs" event with the Kauffman Foundation on June 25th, 2024, the Statement of Principles builds upon rigorous research - including our recently completed national survey of mothers as entrepreneurs that were revealed on a panel hosted by our partner, the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), at their Advocacy Days in Washington, DC.
The Commission identified key areas for improvement, reflected in their Statement of Principles:
Public Funding for Supply and Demand: The statement calls for a two-pronged approach to public funding, supporting both childcare providers through operational grants and targeted tax credits and families through childcare vouchers. This strategy aims to incentivize childcare options while ensuring affordability for female entrepreneurs.
Investing in the Workforce: The Commission recognizes the critical role of childcare professionals. The Statement of Principles emphasizes the need for sufficient compensation for early educators, promoting high-quality childcare programs.
Data-Driven Decision Making: The document underscores the importance of real-time data on childcare supply and demand. Readily accessible data can help families identify available childcare options and streamline enrollment processes. Better data will also allow policymakers to pinpoint areas with the most significant childcare gaps and allocate resources to communities most in need.
White House Engagement and Momentum Builds
Wendy Doyle, President and CEO of United WE, presented the findings from the national childcare survey at a briefing for the White House Gender Policy Council, sparking important conversations about policy changes that could better support female entrepreneurs and their full participation in the U.S. economy. This engagement signifies a growing recognition of the childcare challenges faced by women entrepreneurs and an appetite for future collaboration at the federal level.
Coming Soon! State-by-State Childcare Licensing Analysis
Our new forthcoming research analysis will build on this work to map the current landscape of childcare licensing policies across the country. With this data, policymakers can design streamlined licensing procedures that reduce unnecessary burdens for women entrepreneurs seeking childcare options.