Tackling Childcare: the Business Case for Employer-Supported Childcare

From IFC. A key barrier to female labour force participation is the lack of access to childcare. Recognizing the impact that childcare provision has on women’s employment, countries such as Brazil, India, and Jordan have unveiled policies requiring companies to provide childcare options. Even when not driven by regulatory compliance, companies can support childcare and reap business benefits. Much has been written about the need for investment in childcare, yet there is a dearth of information on what companies can do to address their employees’ childcare needs and how companies might benefit as a result.

This report highlights innovative approaches that companies across sectors and regions have taken to better meet their employees’ childcare needs. Featuring 10 case studies, the report shows how companies can choose from a range of childcare options, from on-site crèches to partnerships with governments and local childcare providers. As a result, companies can better attract and retain qualified staff—helping boost employee productivity and strengthening the bottom line.