Kentucky Collaborative Unveils Recommendations to Boost Child Care Access

Frankfort, Kentucky — After eight months of discussions among 40 key stakeholders, the Kentucky Collaborative on Child Care has released over three dozen recommendations aimed at improving access to affordable, high-quality child care in the Commonwealth.

The collaborative includes the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, the Lift a Life Novak Family Foundation, and the Convergence Center for Policy Resolution. The partnership convened experts from various fields to identify shared solutions to the child care challenges facing families.

“This work creates a foundation for sustainable, long-term child care solutions in Kentucky,” the report states. “It underscores what can be achieved when Kentuckians from different walks of life work together to solve big problems.”

The recommendations cover public policy, nonprofit and philanthropic action, and employer engagement, all aimed at strengthening the economy and expanding options for working families.

“Access to high-quality child care is critical for working families and improving learning outcomes for kids,” said Ashley Novak Butler, Executive Director of the Lift a Life Novak Family Foundation. “We need collaboration among all stakeholders on the best path forward.”

The stakeholders involved included business leaders, public policy professionals, workforce experts, child care providers, and educators. The group worked together from August 2024 through April 2025 and plans to continue its efforts into Kentucky’s 2026 legislative session.

“The power to convene is one of the Kentucky Chamber’s greatest strengths,” said Ashli Watts, President and CEO of the Kentucky Chamber. “Kentucky’s economy, kids, and families will all benefit from this important work.”

Mariah Levison, CEO of Convergence, highlighted the importance of consensus-building among stakeholders. “Building consensus on complex issues like access to child care is achievable when committed stakeholders understand each other’s perspectives,” she said.

In the coming months, the Kentucky Chamber Center for Policy and Research, alongside partner organizations, will release further research emphasizing the implementation of the collaborative’s child care solutions.