At the Cincinnati Regional Chamber, we recognize that access to affordable, quality childcare is essential—not just for working families, but for the strength of our entire economy. Childcare is not a partisan issue; it’s a central part of workforce development, increasing participation, talent retention, and regional growth. And it’s one we advocate for as part of our Policy Agenda.
Across our region, businesses are struggling to fill open positions. At the same time, families are facing barriers to rejoining or staying in the workforce. The cost, availability, and reliability of childcare are holding too many people—and by extension, too many companies—back.
The Childcare Challenge: By the Numbers
According to research from the U.S. and Ohio Chambers of Commerce, Ohio loses $5.48 billion annually due to childcare-related workforce disruptions, including $1.5 billion in lost tax revenue. A household with two young children spends the first $11 of every hour worked just to cover childcare—before they’ve paid for housing, groceries, or gas. And even when cost isn’t the main barrier, access often is: waitlists are long, hours are limited, and staffing shortages are common.
We also know parents are ready and willing to work. Sixty percent of Ohio mothers say they would return to work or increase their hours if they had access to affordable, reliable childcare.
The economics behind the provision of childcare services is also a challenge. Today, many childcare professionals earn less than $15 an hour—wages that make it difficult to attract and retain staff. In fact, this industry sees a 30% annual turnover rate, making it difficult for institutions providing childcare to keep up with workforce changes.
Part of the problem lies in how little childcare workers are paid. Most earn less than $15 per hour, contributing to a 30% annual turnover rate in the field. That constant churn makes it nearly impossible for centers to maintain staff and serve more families.
A Workforce Issue Disguised as a Social Issue
Often childcare is seen as a social issue, one that is more about working parents than about real economic impact.
“There’s a misconception that this is a personal challenge for families to navigate alone,” said State Representative and House Minority Leader Dani Isaacsohn at the Chamber’s Regional Government Day. “But what we’re seeing is a breakdown in economic infrastructure. Childcare isn’t a luxury—it’s a requirement for a functioning workforce.
There are initiatives under way to support the childcare infrastructure. 4C for Children, a local leader helping families connect to licensed childcare providers, access financial assistance, and navigate challenges like transportation or special needs—all at no cost—is a recipient of state funds to support their work. Their team conducts over 500 vacancy checks every month to help match families with providers who have openings right now. Their work is a shining example of how public dollars can be put to work effectively.
Policy Solutions for Ohio Employers
We believe Ohio has both the tools and the momentum to address this challenge head-on. This year, the Ohio Metro Chambers Chamber Coalition (of which the Cincinnati Regional Chamber is a part), is advocating for increased affordability and accessibility in this space. Some proposed legislation that the coalition has supported include:
- Expanding eligibility for publicly funded childcare
- Establishing a child state tax credit to directly support working families
- Providing free childcare for childcare workers, helping stabilize and strengthen the sector’s workforce
- Scaling cost-sharing models like the tri-share program, where costs are split between the employer, employee, and state
- Investing in flexible and extended-hour care to meet the needs of shift and gig economy workers
The Cincinnati Regional Chamber will continue it’s work with partners like Ohio Metro Chambers Coalition, 4C for Children, Department of Children and Youth, and Groundwork Ohio – the State’s leading childcare advocacy group. We’re proud to have House Minority Leader Isaacsohn and State Senator Bill Blessing representing our region and championing bipartisan solutions in this space. – the challenge is to expand what’s working, fix what’s broken, and build a system where families and businesses can thrive together. Because when we invest in childcare, we invest in everyone’s future.