2026 Eggs & Issues - Childcare as an Economic Infrastructure

Childcare as an Economic Infrastructure 

Reliable childcare is a workforce and economic development issue that directly affects a business’s ability to hire and retain employees. This session brings together topic experts from UW-Extension, local childcare providers, program facilitators, and statewide childcare association leaders to examine childcare as essential economic infrastructure, using Dunn County data and real-world examples to illustrate its impact. Moving beyond problem awareness, the conversation will focus on practical, employer-driven solutions and new financial incentives available through Wisconsin Act 78. Designed for decision-makers, this session delivers actionable strategies and a clear return-on-investment perspective for businesses of all sizes.

Learning objectives
By attending, participants will:

• Understand how childcare availability impacts workforce retention and recruitment in Dunn County, supported by local CAT Survey data presented by UW-Extension.
• Learn why childcare should be viewed as essential economic infrastructure, alongside housing and transportation.
• Hear real-world examples from childcare providers and program facilitators on what is working locally and across Wisconsin.
• Explore successful employer-supported childcare models and partnerships shared by childcare association experts.
• Identify meaningful ways businesses can engage in childcare solutions beyond traditional donations.
• Gain an overview of Wisconsin Act 78 and the tax credit opportunities available for employer investment in childcare.
• Discover practical, scalable first steps for small and mid-sized employers who want to support childcare without building on-site centers.