HCEDC in Action: Childcare and Workforce Growth in Hancock County

Hancock County Economic Development (HCEDC) continues to work behind the scenes to support the long-term success of local businesses and communities, and one of the most pressing issues emerging across the county is access to childcare.

Employers across Hancock County consistently tell us they can find jobs, but families need childcare. Without reliable care, parents can’t work consistently, accept promotions, or relocate to the area. That directly impacts our workforce and local economy.

As workforce needs continue to grow, access to affordable, high-quality childcare has become a key factor in economic development. Through conversations with businesses, providers, and community leaders, HCEDC has seen firsthand how childcare shortages affect hiring, retention, and business growth.

To help address this need, HCEDC has been working with community and state partners to expand childcare capacity and strengthen long-term sustainability for local providers. One of the largest efforts currently underway is a new GC4 childcare facility that will add approximately 70 new childcare slots to Hancock County. HCEDC is serving as the consortium lead for this project, coordinating partners and compliance requirements to move the project forward.

The new childcare center is scheduled to open in April 2026 and will significantly expand access to care for working families throughout the county.

Projects like this don’t happen overnight, they require collaboration between local organizations, state agencies, employers, and providers. Our role is to help bring those pieces together so that solutions can actually happen.

In addition to the new facility, HCEDC continues to connect childcare providers with workforce training, grant opportunities, and business planning resources to support stability and growth in the childcare sector. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to strengthen both childcare access and workforce participation.

Reliable childcare benefits the entire community. Employers see stronger retention and fewer disruptions, families are able to remain in the area, and communities gain long-term economic stability.

Anyone with questions about childcare resources, workforce development, or economic development initiatives is encouraged to contact Hancock County Economic Development: Director@hancockcountyiowa.com