THE CEO PROJECT: INVESTING IN CARE, INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES

WHO WE ARE

The CEO Project is fighting for fully funded economic investments in Ohio that transform the lives of families, children, and early childhood educators. We believe that every child, no matter their zip code, deserves access to high-quality early education, and those who provide this invaluable care deserve wages that allow them to thrive, not just survive.

By building the leadership of Black women and women of color who are directly impacted by the care economy, we are creating the power necessary to reshape Ohio’s policies and ensure that childcare workers, families, and communities receive the support they need to flourish.

SUPPORT CARE WORKERS ACROSS OHIO

Ohio’s future depends on a strong, well-supported workforce of early childhood educators. Yet, childcare workers often face low wages, minimal benefits, and harsh working conditions, leading to staff shortages and instability in the care families rely on. To ensure every child receives a strong foundation for lifelong success, we must invest in the people who care for them. Skilled, well-compensated educators are essential for a thriving childcare system that supports both working families and economic growth.

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

We urge Ohio lawmakers to take action by: 

  • Ensuring childcare providers are reimbursed based on enrollment, not attendance, as required by the federal Administration for Children and Families.

  • Capping co-pays for Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC) families at 7% of their income to make childcare more affordable.

  • Reimbursing childcare providers at the 75th percentile of the market rate to ensure sustainability and quality care.

  • Creating a new funding model based on the actual cost of care, including a $20 minimum wage for childcare workers, developed with input from providers and parents.

  • Making childcare free for early childhood educators and other employees of childcare facilities to support the workforce. 

INVEST IN CHILDCARE, INVEST IN OHIO'S FUTURE

A thriving childcare system benefits everyone—children, families, and our economy. It’s time to prioritize policies that recognize early childhood education as essential infrastructure and ensure that those who provide it are treated with dignity and respect.