In 2021, the Leelanau Early Childhood Development Commission (LECDC) set a goal to expand childcare options in Leelanau County. The Early Childhood Investment Corporation (ECIC), a private non-profit organization, stepped forward to award LECDC a grant to expand the number of quality childcare businesses in Leelanau County. Grant funds were used to assist new providers in meeting state licensing regulations in order to open their businesses.

Each enrollee was provided a personal coach to navigate the childcare application process, participated in a business financial training series, and received support for licensing, safety requirements, teaching resources and equipment.

Through exhaustive recruiting methods, the initiative was set to exceed its goal - - by the end of 2023, Leelanau County was expecting to have six new childcare businesses accepting youngsters.

Due to the extended timeline provided by the State of Michigan licensing department, ITCS saw 3 providers open their doors to Leelanau County youngsters.