PIERRE, (KCCR) — The Pierre Economic Development Corporation or PEDCO is one of 13 organizations who have been awarded state funding for child care in the state from the Governor’s Office of Economic Development. Over 40 different entities applied for the latest round of implementation funding. A total of three-point-seven million dollars was awarded to the 13 agencies. Other central South Dakota awardees include the Murdo Development Corporation, City of Highmore and Mobridge Development Corporation. Several types of projects were awarded funds to help expand the number of child care slots available. Projects include improving child care workforce, strengthening partnerships to create after school programs and business accelerators for potential new owners. The funds should help retain nearly 600 child care spots and allow for nearly 2500 new child care slot openings. Other areas getting funds are in Brookings, Burke, Rapid City, Redfield, Madison, McIntosh, Platte, Sioux Falls and Vermillion.
