News

Powering Home-Based Child Care Providers with New Technology

May 2025
HBC Laptop Distribution
 
Through an initiative with E2D, Smart Start of Mecklenburg County's (SSMC) Chief Impact Officer, Dr. Nicole Campbell, helped distribute new laptops to home-based childcare providers throughout our community.

"Home-Based Child Care owners are operating small businesses and we are committed to help them build their infrastructure. Technology is a cornerstone to helping them expand their business through management, organization, marketing and communication. Giving them the gift of these laptops and training to use them will change the whole landscape of their impact," said Campbell.

With her mom in tow, Campbell hit the road, delivering laptops to 10 providers, with 10 more getting ready to be distributed soon. The new technology aims to help build their business infrastructure.

Valecia Marshall opened her first home based child care business in 2010.

"Technology has been moving at an extraordinary pace. I find it hard to keep up at times. Having this new laptop will allow me to learn new ways to help my business grow, connect with others providers, professional development training, and helping children learn through technology use," said Marshall.

 
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SSMC aims to take the stigma out of home-based childcare providers. Last year, Campbell accompanied a group of dedicated home based providers to the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) National Conference in St. Louis. This opportunity for five CEOs gave them the opportunity to professionally develop their craft and network and strategize ways to grow their business.

"Connecting with [Nicole] and Smart Start of Mecklenburg County has allowed us to grow as childcare providers and have access to very valuable resources. We have gained a lot of knowledge and education in a small time frame. I know that continuing to have Smart Start in my corner will make a powerful impact on helping young children reach their highest potential," said Marshall.

E2D is a local nonprofit with the goal of eliminating the digital divide, mainly amongst school children enrolled throughout the Charlotte Mecklenburg School System. The organization has distributed over 55,000 laptops since its inception in 2013.