Business Roundtable: Foundational Workers, Child Care, and the U.S. Economy

July 24, 2026 - 03:11

A bipartisan group of more than a dozen business leaders gathered recently for a roundtable discussion focused on the critical link between child care access and the health of the U.S. economy. The event, hosted by the First Five Years Fund, Moms First's National Business Coalition for Child Care, and Etsy, brought together executives from various industries to address a growing problem: the lack of affordable, reliable child care is pushing foundational workers out of the labor force.

Participants highlighted that the child care shortage is not just a family issue but a major economic drag. When parents cannot find or afford care, they often reduce their work hours or leave jobs entirely. This creates staffing shortages for employers, especially in sectors like retail, hospitality, and healthcare. The roundtable explored policy solutions that could help stabilize the child care market, such as expanded tax credits and public-private partnerships.

The discussion underscored a shift in corporate thinking. More companies now see child care support as essential infrastructure for a productive workforce, not just a benefit. Without action, business leaders warned, the economy will continue to lose millions of potential workers. The group called for sustained investment at both the federal and state levels to keep families employed and businesses running.