A new $16 million Early Childhood Educator Wage Initiative is giving monthly stipends to over 2,500 child care providers across Northern Michigan, including the Upper Peninsula. Administered by MiLEAP and the Gogebic-Ontonagon Intermediate School District , the effort aims to stabilize the workforce and support families. All 10 of Michigan’s Regional Child Care Coalitions are participating, with each eligible for up to $1.6 million. Stipends, started in November, offer up to $200 for part-time and $300 for full-time educators. The initiative, running through September 2027, seeks to improve compensation, strengthen child outcomes, and boost local economies.