We recognize that you are busy. Early childhood education providers are working through real challenges. You may be navigating staffing shortages, supporting families who need affordable care, or trying to strengthen quality while managing limited time and resources. With so much happening day to day, it can be difficult to step back and imagine new possibilities.
To support this type of thinking, we are offering two virtual ideation sessions with Mitch Marcello of Imago Innovation on April 9. These sessions are designed to help providers explore fresh ideas and gain simple tools to approach challenges in new ways.
Why This Matters Now
The next round of the ECHO Innovation Grant Program is approaching quickly. The application process opens on May 4 and closes on June 1. Many providers share that they need time to think before they begin writing their applications. These sessions offer dedicated space to reflect, plan ahead, and consider what could strengthen your business or meet a need in your community.
What to Bring
Please bring one real challenge your program is facing. Examples may include:
- Helping more families access affordable care
- Improving staff retention or hiring
- Strengthening quality in a specific area
During the session, Mitch will introduce practical tools that support creative thinking. You do not need to arrive with a finished idea. The goal is to explore options, consider new angles, and identify ideas that could be shaped into a strong grant application. We encourage you to share what you learn with your team, family, or friends after the session.
Join Us – Register Today!
Date: Tuesday, April 9, 2026
Session 1: 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. — Register here
Session 2: 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. — Register here
Please register for one session only.
Participants will receive a one-pager approximately one week prior to the session, including background information and guiding questions to support preparation.
A New Opportunity for Providers
This is a new support we are offering, and we hope it gives participants time, space, and confidence as they explore new ideas. Our goal is to help lift up the creativity already present in early childhood education and to make the process of applying for the ECHO Innovation Grant more manageable.
As a reminder, this grant program directly funds early childhood educators and providers in York County, PA who present creative solutions for increased capacity and quality.
If you would like to talk about whether this session is a good fit, please email us at mwhalen@cccforpa.org. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.
To learn more about the ECHO Innovation Grant, visit echoyork.org/grants-and-programs.
