WBDC Technology Grant Program

WBDC is pleased to offer technology grants to OEC licensed programs.

The Women’s Business Development Council is offering technology devices to qualified child care businesses in Connecticut.

This grant program is designed to empower your child care business with the right technology. WBDC is offering technology devices to select OEC licensed programs to help you run a stronger, smarter business. 

What this Grant Provides

Selected applicants will receive technology devices, such as a desktop, laptop, or tablet to support the day-to-day operations of your child care business. These devices are for business use, not intended for classroom use by enrolled children.

Make sure to read the Eligibility section below before beginning the process to apply (scroll down for link).
 
Ready to apply? Click the link in your email invitation

Important: If you have any questions during the application process, please email us at childcaregrants@ctwbdc.org

Key Dates for Awardees:

April 23
: Awardee Orientation
May - June:
Device Installation

Learn About the Technology Grant Program

This round is open by invitation only to select OEC-licensed child care businesses., due to limited funding.

Review the criteria below before applying:

  1. Awarded Early Start spots
  2. Operate in a medium to high needs area by COI/Access score
  3. Are an active WBDC client
  4. Have NOT received a WBDC grant (Start-Up, Emergency Facilities, Expansion, or Technology Grant)
  5. Have a licensed capacity of fewer than 50 slots
  6. Received an email invitation to apply
Note: If you have received a referral to this program but have not met the eligibility requirements above, please contact us.

Device can support:

  • Financial Tracking and Bookkeeping: Stay on top of income, expenses, and cash flow
  • Business Planning: Make informed decisions with tools that support your financial health and day-to-day operations
  • Parent Communication: Send updates, newsletters and messages with ease
  • Enrollment Management: Manage waitlists, registrations, and records digitally
  • Professional Development: Access training and resources to grow your skills

You are not eligible if you:

  1. Previously received a WBDC Technology Grant
  2. Did not receive an email invitation from WBDC
  3. Own a business computer or laptop less than 2 years old
  4. Requesting reimbursement for a device already purchased. Cash reimbursements will not be considered or approved.

Prepare Your Application

Before you begin your application, you will be required to create a profile in WBDC’s eCenter portal to provide general information about you and your business.

If you are an existing WBDC client that has used eCenter before to register for classes, you will need to review and update your eCenter Profile by logging into eCenter, and clicking “My Information” on the left.

If you are an existing WBDC client that has not used eCenter before, click the link below to get to our eCenter. Then click “Forgot Password” in the top right corner. Enter your email and follow the on-screen prompts to access to your profile.  Once logged in, click “My Information” on the left to complete or update your information.

Click here to access your eCenter profile

  • Eligibility questions
  • Technology needs assessment (non-narrative)
  • Award agreement (if eligible)
  •  

Note: If you have never applied for a WBDC grant before, you will need to create a new account. To make things easier, we recommend using your eCenter login credentials that way you won’t have to keep track of an additional username and password.

Documentation you’ll need to provide:

  • W-9 Form (instructions below)

Additional Resources

How to Complete a W-9 Form

Use Form W-9 to provide your correct Taxpayer Identification Number to the person who is required to file an information return with the IRS to report, for example:

  • Income paid to you
  • Prize Winner or Award Recipient (Miscellaneous Income)

Download the W-9 FormYou can obtain the W-9 form from the IRS website or the link below. Ensure you have the most recent version of the form.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using the Wrong Name or Business Name 
    • Make sure the name on Line 1 is the correct legal name that matches your Tax Identification Number)
  • Checking the Wrong Tax Classification Box 
    • Remember, if you’re a one-person business (sole prop or single-member LLC with no corporate elections)
    • Double and triple-check your SSN or EIN. Please do not enter both.
  • Forgetting to Sign and Date 
    • An unsigned W-9 is not valid.

 

Important Notice
If awarded, you will receive a 1099 form in January 2027. The value of your technology award will be reported to the IRS and should be included in your tax filing. We recommend consulting a tax professional if you have questions.

These grants are made possible through the generous financial support of the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC).