Our communities face complex social challenges that demand bold thinking and innovative solutions. Real transformation happens when philanthropic organizations join forces with community-led initiatives to pursue shared goals. Together, we can achieve greater impact and create lasting change.

In 2020, CEI launched the Child Care Business Lab, a groundbreaking cohort program designed to empower entrepreneurs—often overlooked by traditional systems—to start or grow child care businesses. This initiative has delivered critical services to families while strengthening local economies. Thanks to strategic partnerships, the program has helped open 50+ new child care businesses and create over 1,000 child care slots across Maine. Many of these businesses are owned by women and BIPOC entrepreneurs and serve rural communities, advancing equity and inclusion statewide.

This workshop will spotlight the collaborative approach behind the Child Care Business Lab’s success. Attendees will learn how funders aligned with the program and supported it beyond traditional grants—through Program Related Investments, capacity-building initiatives, and networking opportunities. CEI will share how this layered support model has made affordable, high-quality, and culturally responsive child care accessible, enabling parents to return to work or school and strengthening community vibrancy.

By showcasing these partnerships, we aim to inspire both community-led organizations and philanthropic leaders to think creatively about collaboration. Together, we can leverage resources, amplify impact, and drive meaningful change.

Call to Action:

• For Community-Led Organizations: Explore innovative ways to collaborate with philanthropic leaders to address your community’s unique needs.
• For Philanthropic Leaders: Go beyond grantmaking. Align diverse resources—financial and non-financial—and work collectively with community organizations to create systemic change.