PHOENIX (STN) – A new partnership is expanding economic opportunity while addressing Arizona’s critical shortage of quality childcare.
Niños en Mi Casa, a collaboration between Candelen and CPLC’s Préstamos CDFI, is helping caregivers launch and grow licensed, home-based childcare businesses, supporting both children and the local workforce.
At the heart of the program is a powerful idea: equip caregivers with the tools and training to become confident entrepreneurs. According to Candelen CEO Rob Podlogar, the demand for in-home care is growing.
“Three out of five families we surveyed in 2024 wanted their child to be in a home-based childcare environment,” he said. “It’s more intimate and personal for kids five and under.”
With nearly 50 years of experience in early childhood development, Candelen provides the educational foundation and licensing support.
Candelen, CPLC partner to grow caregiver businesses:
“We really want to support caregivers in taking those first steps to start and grow their business,” said Ruth Ray, program director at Candelen. “Because when we support caregivers, we’re supporting families in accessing the kind of care they want for their children.”
Préstamos CDFI, the small business lending arm of CPLC, complements the work by offering financing and technical assistance. “It felt like the perfect way to work collaboratively,” said Amber Cordoba, senior director of external affairs. “Candelen brings the subject matter expertise, and we bring the resources to help these providers turn their work into a sustainable business.”
The long-term goal of the partnership is to increase access to affordable, high-quality childcare while building financial stability for caregivers who have transitioned into entrepreneurship.
“We’re not just filling a need for childcare,” Podlogar added. “We’re creating the workforce behind the workforce.”
