Child Care Resource and Referral of Midwestern Illinois

08/27/2026

Join us online for great trainings! Learn more at https://www.childcareillinois.org/provider-services/training-and-professional-development/events

08/21/2026

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08/14/2026

The INCCRRA Bloomington office is closed Friday August 14, 2026 due to severe weather and a power outage.

Smart Start Workforce Grant FY27 Round 2 Update -
Severe storms across much of Illinois on Thursday resulted in widespread power outages and disruptions that affected many programs’ ability to access systems and complete required work. We understand these circumstances were beyond programs’ control and want to ensure those experiencing access issues have adequate time to complete their Smart Start Workforce Grant funding requests and documentation submissions.

As a result of these access disruptions, the Smart Start Workforce Grants FY27 Round 2 deadline for funding requests and missing documentation has been extended to Monday, August 17, 2026.

INCCRRA has also experienced power and system disruptions, which may result in temporary delays in response times as services are fully restored.

We appreciate your patience and understanding.

08/13/2026

Free training opportunity!

Join private child care leaders and industry experts for actionable strategies on not only strengthening program quality, but making it the bedrock for driving enrollment and sustainable growth.

08/12/2026

08/11/2026

Need CPR & First Aid? Register by 10/30 for the class on 11/7/26 in person at CCR&R of Midwestern Illinois! Use the QR code or go to www.childcareillinois.org and register!

08/10/2026

Sharing this fun idea for anyone interested! This is not sponsored by CCR&R but sure looks like a fun adventure!

08/10/2026

Smart Start Workforce Grant FY27 Round 2 applications are available for renewal July 1 – August 14, 2026.

It is important that you complete all FY27 Round 2 renewal requirements, including submitting funding requests and required reporting by Friday, August 14, 2026.

Due to limited funding, programs that miss renewal deadlines or do not submit required information by August 14, 2026, will not receive funding in Round 2. Additionally, programs that are not funded in Round 2 may not have an opportunity to re-enter the program during FY27 Round 3 and could be required to wait until the FY28 funding cycle to apply again.

07/27/2026

Join us on Tuesday, August 4th at 6 PM for a virtual information session on ECE degrees, scholarships, credentials, and professional development opportunities. Register online today at https://www.childcareillinois.org/provider-services/training-and-professional-development/events!