For Immediate Release
September 18, 2024
Contact: Moxi Media Relations
Email: hello@moxichildcare.com

"Moxi Raises Over Half a Million Dollars from Local Moms, Launches On-Location Service and Makes Key Hires"
The Bham-based startup continues to gain momentum, announcing a historic round of mom-led investments, new location and first 3 key hires

‍BIRMINGHAM, AL: September 18, 2024 -- With $650,000 raised so far from a group of 90% women and 90% parents, Moxi, the innovative new childcare startup, is proud to announce the success of its Founding Mothers campaign. This historic initiative marks the first women-led capital raise in Alabama’s history, and continues to drive momentum behind the Birmingham-based startup while highlighting women’s critical role in solving the childcare crisis. 

In addition to the success of this early fundraising round, Moxi is proud to announce the launch of Moxi to Go, an on-demand, on-location childcare service for conferences, parties and events. Moxi to Go provides highly trained, background-checked, and CPR-certified childcare workers who bring age appropriate toys and supplies, baby proofing, a signature activity and take home treasures for each child. The service will first be publicly provided this Thursday, September 19th at Storytime, Small Magic’s annual fundraiser supporting child literacy – where spaces with Moxi to Go sold out in under an hour.

Committed to its local roots, Moxi is also announcing its first 3 key hires this week, all proudly  Alabama-grown talent: Maria Underwood, COO; Tara Collins, Head of School, Birmingham; and Amber Whitfield, Early Learning Specialist. Bios for each available below.

‍"We’re incredibly proud of the progress we've made so far," said Cori Fain-Forrest, Moxi Founder. "These mom-led investments are a testament to the dedication and vision of the women and parents in our community. This campaign is more than just a funding round; it's a movement led by women to create lasting change. And it’s a lifeline to the thousands of Alabama families still on waitlists for childcare – including mine. Moving forward, I can’t wait to see how our team of Alabama-led talent continues to develop industry-disrupting – yet community building – services like Moxi to Go.”

"We know that 85,000 Alabama families are struggling with access to quality childcare." added Maria Underwood, COO. "We’re confident that the commitment and support demonstrated by the Founding Mothers campaign will help redefine childcare in Alabama and beyond. Ultimately, our goal is to create a new model for care, one that benefits children, parents, and the community as a whole – while providing much-needed relief to the families that need it right now.” The success of the Founding Mothers campaign positions Moxi to further its mission of providing accessible, flexible, and reliable childcare. With the initial funds raised, Moxi is well on its way to opening its flagship childcare center, set to transform childcare with innovative services and holistic family support.

For more information about Moxi, the Founding Mothers campaign, its leadership and mission, please visit moxichildcare.com.

Key hires:
‍Maria Underwood, Chief Operating Officer
‍Maria, Moxi’s first executive hire, brings over a decade of experience in social impact as both a startup founder and nonprofit executive. Her expertise spans fundraising, community building, and operational leadership, making her a dynamic force in driving success and innovation.

Tara Collins, Head of School, Birmingham
‍With over 13 years of experience in early childhood education, Tara most recently served as Director of La Petite Academy of Mercedes Benz. Her deep knowledge in childcare center management, licensing, and teaching makes her an exceptional leader who is beloved by teachers, parents, and children alike.

Amber Whitfield, Early Learning Specialist
‍Amber holds a master’s degree in early childhood education and has over a decade of experience in childcare services and management, including leadership roles in First Class Pre-K and United Way of Central Alabama. Her expertise ensures a strong foundation for developing and launching Moxi’s early education initiatives.