This program is a collaborative effort between 4Cs of San Mateo County and the Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center (REN). Through tailored training, mentorship, and expert business guidance, FCC Provider Pathways equips providers with the resources and tools they need to start and build thriving child care businesses.

Scroll below to learn about each of the specific services available to providers, or click here to learn more about the FCC Provider Pathways program.

4Cs provides step-by-step guidance for individuals interested in starting a family child care business and becoming licensed. Support includes:

• Pre-licensing visits and assistance navigating state licensing requirements.

• Business foundations training to help providers establish strong operational practices

• Opportunities for start-up grants to purchase instructional materials and program supplies.

Through Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center, FCC providers receive tailored advanced business training and expert consulting for long-term success. Renaissance offers:

• Advanced Business Courses on marketing, branding, and financial sustainability.

• One-on-one consulting with business experts.

• Opportunities for growth grants to expand and strengthen FCC businesses.

FCC Pathways Program helps providers grow their businesses through targeted outreach and client retention strategies, including:

• Utilizing the statewide resource and referral database MyChildCarePlan (MCCP).

• Technical assistance and support in creating and maintaining an MCCP profile, along with ongoing referrals from 4Cs.

• Website development and marketing strategies to increase visibility and attract families.

4Cs’ FCC Pathways Ambassador Program connects newly licensed providers with experienced FCC professionals who serve as mentors. Ambassadors provide:

• Peer support and hands-on guidance to strengthen business operations.

• Best practices for curriculum, family engagement, networking, and client retention.

• Coaching on quality care, policies, contracts, and financial management.

Providers have access to foundational business courses and professional development workshops in multiple languages (English, Spanish, and Chinese), including:

• Health and Safety Prerequisites such as Preventative Health and CPR/First Aid.

• Fundamentals of Family Child Care Series

• All Our Kin (AOK) Business Series

And other courses covering:

• Best practices in the field and quality improvement.

• Health and Safety and Licensing Regulation Updates.

• Family engagement and culturally responsive practices.