Business leaders have an acute understanding of the importance of a well-educated workforce to support a strong economy, keep America competitive globally, and ensure a vibrant democracy. Right now 20 percent of the American labor force is functionally illiterate or innumerate. High-quality child care and early education builds a strong foundation of cognitive and social skills in young children that can improve their engagement in school and increase per capita earnings and economic development. This is especially important for the growing proportion--almost half--of American young children currently living in deprivation and poverty. Yet, only a fraction of children access such services. The nation now faces tough choices to renew the economy, but fiscal prudence cannot be served at the expense of under-investing in the well-being and future of the children--and thereby preventing unnecessary remedial expenditures. The Committee for Economic Development (CED) believes it is vital for the country's future that investments in the youngest children remain a major national and state-level priority. CED's model of engaging the business community has mobilized corporate leaders to support early learning programs. With tools provided by CED, the Trustees have travelled the country and spoken to business and civic audiences about the importance of investing in children and families. This report provides new data, strategies, developments, and examples of corporate engagement to promote investment in early childhood.