A Shared Services Cooperative for Childcare Workers

Abstract

The Mamdani administration and Governor Hochul’s commitment to universal childcare for children under five creates a rare opening to reshape New York City’s childcare system around equity, quality, and democratic accountability. But expanding public funding into a fragmented sector risks reproducing existing gaps unless implementation builds durable civic infrastructure for worker and provider voice. This brief argues that strengthening democratic accountability should be treated as an implementation requirement, not an add-on. It proposes creating a shared services cooperative (SSC) that gives childcare workers and community-based providers collective capacity, shared back-office supports, and a stronger platform for participation in policy design and oversight. By leveling the playing field for smaller providers while preserving their independence, an SSC can become a cornerstone of a more inclusive, responsive, citywide childcare system.