A Critical Industry Powering Workforce & Economic Growth
Childcare is essential infrastructure for a strong and growing economy. In Great Falls, access to reliable, affordable childcare directly impacts workforce participation, business productivity, and quality of life for families across our region.
The Great Falls Development Alliance (GFDA) is actively working to expand and strengthen the childcare ecosystem—supporting providers, employers, and partners to meet demand and unlock economic opportunity.
Why Childcare Matters in Great Falls
Childcare is not just a family issue—it’s a workforce and business issue.
- Over 60% of families report difficulty finding childcare
- Nearly 80% say they are paying too much for care
- Childcare challenges directly impact employee retention, work hours, and business productivity
GFDA’s economic development strategy identifies childcare as a key driver of workforce participation and talent attraction in the Great Falls region.
Jolene Schalper, CEcD, EDFP, EDP
Executive Vice President
Connect with a team member! Contact Jolene.
Market Opportunity
Great Falls has a stable but constrained childcare market with clear opportunities for investment and expansion.
- 73 licensed childcare providers serving ~3,095 children
- Estimated unmet demand of 500–850 children, especially for:
- Infant care (0–12 months)
- Toddler care
- Preschool-aged children
Demand is not driven by rapid population growth, but by:
- Workforce participation needs
- Affordability gaps
- Misalignment between available care and family schedules
Key Challenges = Business Opportunities
Workforce Shortages
Staffing—not facility space—is the primary constraint on childcare availability. Even small staffing changes can reduce capacity or close classrooms.
Affordability Pressures
Childcare costs often exceed 12–15% of household income, far above affordability benchmarks.
High Demand for Infant & Flexible Care
The greatest unmet need exists in:
- Infant and toddler care (higher staffing ratios required)
- Nontraditional hours (shift work, healthcare, military)
Mismatch Between Supply & Preferences
Families often prefer:
- Affordable options
- Smaller, home-based settings
- Flexible schedules