Official Website: https://www.smartstart.org/featured-initiatives/nc-tri-share/
Authorizing Legislation: Senate Bill 293 (S.L. 2023-134)
Common questions about child care assistance in North Carolina
NC Tri-Share is North Carolina's child care cost-sharing program administered by Smart Start, where costs are split equally among employers, families, and the state.
Families must have household income between 185-300% of the Federal Poverty Level, be employed by a participating business, and be otherwise ineligible for state child care subsidies.
Yes, NC Tri-Share is now available in all 100 North Carolina counties through the Smart Start network of local partnerships.
Families can save $6,000-$8,000 per year depending on local child care costs and provider rates.
Contact your local Smart Start Partnership or visit smartstart.org/tri-share to begin the application process and find participating employers in your area.
Employers in North Carolina can implement a Duo-Share program immediatelyโa two-way cost split between employer and employee that can be launched in 60-90 days without waiting for government funding.
Learn About Duo-Share โOur team has helped launch child care cost-sharing programs across the country. Get expert guidance on program design, funding strategies, and implementation.
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