HAGERSTOWN, Md. – Hagerstown officials are moving forward with a new grant program aimed at expanding childcare access within the city, using $250,000 in state funding to support new and growing providers.
Economic Development Specialist Chris Siemerling presented the proposed “Bright Start Childcare Grant Program,” outlining how the initiative would help reduce financial barriers for childcare providers.
The program is funded through Maryland’s Community Legacy program and is designed as a 1-to-1 matching grant, meaning applicants must match awarded funds with their own investment.
Grants will range from a minimum of $10,000 up to $250,000 and can be used for a variety of startup and expansion costs, including facility renovations, equipment purchases, property improvements and marketing efforts needed to meet state licensing requirements.
City officials said the program is intended to address a growing need for childcare services while encouraging investment within Hagerstown’s designated Sustainable Communities Area.
“By reducing key financial barriers … we’re hoping to make it more feasible for providers to open or expand,” Siemerling said, noting that applicants can combine the grant with other funding sources.
Eligible applicants include both for-profit and nonprofit childcare providers seeking to create new facilities or expand existing licensed operations within city limits. Projects must demonstrate the ability to meet Maryland’s childcare licensing requirements and show a clear development plan.
Applications will be reviewed by a cross-department committee based on factors such as project need, infant and toddler care capacity, job creation, business viability and overall economic impact.
Officials emphasized that the program is focused on capital improvements and startup costs rather than ongoing operational expenses such as rent or salaries.
To qualify, projects must be in the planning stage at the time of application and must begin within three months of approval. All work must be completed and operational by May 31, 2028.
Applications will be accepted through Jan. 31, 2028, or until funding is exhausted, and will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to final approval by the state.
The program stems from an application approved by the mayor and city council in June 2025 and reflects broader efforts to strengthen workforce support systems and economic development within the city.
The proposed program guidelines and application are expected to be presented to the mayor and council for approval later this month.
