NDWBC is leading in expanding North Dakota’s childcare owners capacity, equipping them with the tools and training needed to create resilient businesses, deepening their industry connections, and building a brighter future for North Dakota’s families. More than 200 childcare owners and professionals have already benefited from NDWBC’s specialized one-on-one coaching, virtual Childcare Intensives course, and in-depth industry conferences.
“When we heard that childcare was in crisis two years ago, we knew that our business services would be key to building onto the good work that was already being done with the childcare industry in our state,” said an NDWBC Client Success Director Elizabeth Phares Oren.
The childcare sector faces unique challenges: razor-thin margins, unpredictable demand, staffing challenges, regulation changes, and funding. These barriers make it difficult for providers to meet the state’s demand for quality care. NDWBC has risen to meet these needs by offering business education, coaching, and a community of support specifically designed for childcare owners.
“Too often, childcare professionals and their businesses and organizations they run are seen and treated as babysitters. The depth, breadth, and complexity of this industry and the potential impact it has on the everyday life of North Dakota citizens is something to be celebrated, appreciated, and invested in. Our goal is to help these business leaders create strong operational foundations, build financial know-how, and develop strategic plans for staffing and growth,” said Elizabeth. “By doing so, we help them build stronger, more sustainable businesses.”
Partnering with Childcare Aware of North Dakota (CCA), NDWBC has crafted programming that complements CCA’s resources with NDWBC’s expertise in capacity building and relationship development. Together, they offer targeted tools and strategies to strengthen childcare businesses across the state.
One of the standout offerings from this partnership is the Childcare Intensives virtual course— a 12-week program designed specifically for childcare owners. The course combines group sessions and personalized coaching, covering essential topics like financial literacy, leadership skills, and strategic planning.
As owners swap stories about the day-to-day struggles of running a childcare business, they share best practices and insights that only someone in their shoes could provide.
Nourished by the personal stories, Childcare Intensives boasts a unique and adaptive curriculum based on individual concerns reported in networking time, discussion with subject matter experts, and in pre-class surveys, so the program is tailored to meet owners’ needs.
“What sets our course apart from other training is the power of connection. Over three months, the women who join this program don’t just learn better business skills—they build a network of supportive peers that they belong to,” said Elizabeth.
The depth of community building found in the Childcare Intensive course is the true value of the program. It creates a space where childcare providers not only learn how to run their businesses more efficiently but also lift each other up, elevating the foundation for early childhood educators in North Dakota.
“This class was very encouraging. It took me to the next level and expanded my knowledge. I’m ready to continue planning for my future,” says a recent graduate of the program.
Another foundational aspect of the program is the built-in one-on-one coaching.
While NDWBC, offers business coaching to all entrepreneurs and business owners, intensive program participants who are engaged in the curriculum meet with seasoned facilitators who already know them. At these coaching sessions they get feedback by someone who understand their unique challenges and can offer tailored feedback within the context of a shared understanding.
“[NDWBC’s facilitator] was knowledgeable, engaged, and so supportive. I’d recommend the Childcare Intensive course to anyone in the industry,” shared a recent graduate of the program.
Although the in-depth nature of NDWBC’s programming is challenging to scale beyond the virtual course, NDWBC continues to share insights and offer training at childcare industry events, such as the Taking Care of You and Your Business Summit hosted by Childcare MN and ND. At this fall’s summit, NDWBC facilitated a panel on funding opportunities and presented a keynote on budgeting and cash flow management for owners.
The conference underscored how much business owners value having a reliable partner as they navigate the complex landscape of starting, expanding, and sustaining their childcare businesses.
NDWBC is honored to be that partner, championing the industry and leading the way in North Dakota for these business owners. Through one-on-one coaching, group training, and intensive programs, NDWBC is stands behind women coming together. Its seen firsthand that their collective strength makes everyone’s business stronger.
Want to be part of the next class? NDWBC is currently accepting applications for our next virtual Childcare Intensives course starting in January. Apps are due on November 15. Learn more about this free, 10-session course for childcare business owners of all sizes.