Burien Invests in Childcare to Strengthen Workforce and Support Families

New support systems are expanding access to licensed, high-quality childcare in Burien. Burien’s economy, workforce, and families depend on reliable childcare.

But since the pandemic, too many parents have faced limited options, long waitlists, and unaffordable care. With monthly childcare costs averaging $1,300 per child in Washington, the region’s childcare shortage has become a direct barrier to employment and economic mobility.

Burien is taking action.

The City of Burien is investing $250,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to expand childcare capacity through a new contract focused on launching up to nine home-based childcare providers.

By partnering with The Imagine Institute, the program provides startup funding, technical support, and business guidance for aspiring childcare entrepreneurs in Burien. The goal is to build a stronger, more sustainable childcare network that better supports Burien families and businesses.

Childcare Access Is a Workforce Issue

During the pandemic, closures caused by low enrollment, retirements, and staffing turnover significantly reduced local capacity. Parents are still feeling the effects, and employers are seeing the consequences.

Lack of childcare limits who can return to work, how long they can stay employed, and which jobs they can accept. As more employers struggle to fill openings, improving access to childcare has become critical to retention, productivity, and overall economic participation.

Burien is responding with a coordinated effort that strengthens the City’s economic foundation by expanding the childcare ecosystem.

A Targeted, Data-Driven Investment

The $250,000 investment is structured to make an immediate and long-term impact.

• $150,000 will support The Imagine Institute in delivering technical assistance, mentoring, licensing support, and navigation help for the City’s zoning and permitting process.
• $100,000 will fund $10,000 startup grants for nine new childcare providers. These funds help cover costs like licensing fees, equipment, and early operational expenses.

Together, these resources will help entrepreneurs formalize their businesses, meet all licensing standards, and build sustainable operations. The program is open to both new and experienced providers to launch all nine locations by the end of 2026.

New Sites Already in Motion

Two successful graduates of the Imagine U program will be opening soon. An upcoming ribbon cutting ceremony at each will celebrate their exciting milestone as well as the addition of more childcare options for Burien families.

By the end of 2026, Burien is on track to welcome at least nine new licensed home-based childcare businesses.

Addressing a Top Community Priority

Burien residents and business leaders alike have identified childcare as a top priority. As part of the City’s broader Economic Development Strategic Action Plan approved by Council in 2024, this program reflects clear, community-led direction addressing community needs.

Burien Economic Development is also focused on long-term policy change. By evaluating zoning, permitting, and parking regulations, the City is working to remove unnecessary barriers that discourage new childcare providers from establishing their much needed operations. Staff are also exploring ways to communicate opportunities better, provide permitting support, and continue to build relationships with existing providers.

A Roadmap for Long-Term Change

This initiative is part of a broader 5-to-10-year strategy to:

• Increase year-round, full-day, and nontraditional-hours care
• Prioritize areas with high employment density and low childcare availability
• Support early learning in the critical 0–5 age range
• Improve workforce retention by reducing a key employment barrier
• Advocate for state-level incentives and systemic reform

Childcare is economic infrastructure. Burien is addressing the issue with targeted investments, coordinated support, and a long-term plan to increase supply, reduce costs, and support families and employers alike.

Get Involved

For childcare entrepreneurs: Learn more about licensing and grant opportunities by contacting Burien Economic Development.

For employers and partners: Join the conversation about how improved childcare access can help grow and retain talent in Burien.