Strategic Plan

Strategy 4.1

Promote and formalize agreements between public and private sectors to generate financial support for this strategic plan.

4.1.1   Explore public-private partnership models around the country and identify elements
that reflect Kansas values and priorities.
State agency led tactic.

4.1.2   Equip business leaders with information demonstrating the impact of supporting safe,
stable, nurturing relationships in early childhood.
State agency led tactic.Local individual or small group champions.Statewide and community-level partnerships.

4.1.3   Connect local government officials, nonprofit leaders, chambers of commerce,
the economic development community, and business leaders with opportunities
to support families, such as wage support and scholarships for early childhood
care and education professionals, expanded broadband access, and community
service tax credits.
State agency led tactic.Local individual or small group champions.Statewide and community-level partnerships.

Progress Update

The Kansas Future Fellows initiative is comprised of a diverse group of public and private cross-sector leaders from throughout the state. Together they create a network of professionals engaged and committed to a long-range vision in which children and families thrive in a Kansas rooted in innovation, choices, community, equity, and stability. The Fellows are engaged in collaborative projects today that pave the way for progress across the state.

Local organizations and businesses have modeled how public-private collaboration can have tremendous benefits for children, families, and the early childhood sector in general. Child care-friendly policies and initiatives from employers such as Urban Outfitters, along with effort by community leaders such as the Wyandotte County Economic Development Council and Finney County Economic Development Corporation showcase how communities can leverage unique public-private partnerships to meet their needs. In addition, the Kansas Department of Commerce earmarked a significant portion of their Community Service Tax Credit Program for early childhood development needs. This program supports non-profit organizations considering major capital campaigns through tax credits for donors.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how essential early childhood programs are to supporting working families and the overall economy. It is critical to continue efforts to educate the private sector on ways they can support their employees and the families that live, work, and play in their communities.