A new mini-daycare center is being established in Berkesd, located at the western gateway to Baranya County and just an 18–26-minute drive from Pécs, as part of the kindergarten’s expansion. The project is being implemented with a non-repayable EU grant of 123 million forints; the construction site was handed over on October 29, 2025, and completion is expected by October 30, 2026.
The development will create 8 new spots for children aged 0–3, as well as a developmental and speech therapy room and related support spaces. The project is being implemented by a consortium comprising the Municipality of Berkesd and the Baranya County Government Office under the TOP_Plusz-3.3.1-21 call for proposals.
Why is this important to investors?
1) A more stable and flexible labor supply. The OECD notes that in Hungary, having young children reduces women’s employment to a greater extent than in many other OECD countries; expanding childcare is a direct way to increase labor force participation. For local employers, this means fewer absences, faster returns to work, and greater flexibility in terms of shifts and seasonal work.
2) Direct impact on recruitment in the Pécs metropolitan area. Berkesd is approximately 18–26 minutes from Pécs by car, meaning the town falls within the “catchment area” of the Pécs labor market. The proximity of childcare facilities can reduce employee turnover and improve willingness to commute to work.
3) Social impact = reduced business risk. The mini-daycare center provides access to early childhood development, particularly for children from disadvantaged families. Better school readiness and social integration reduce human risks (dropout rates, absenteeism) in the long term and improve local productivity prospects.
4) Population retention and commuting convenience. Providing services in small towns brings them closer to families, which significantly simplifies everyday logistics (the workplace–daycare–home triangle). Given the region’s population decline, any investment that supports a family-friendly lifestyle is a factor in competitiveness.
What does the development include?
- A new mini-daycare facility with one classroom (8 spots), an attached children’s restroom, a changing area, a teachers’ lounge, and a staff locker room.
- A developmental and speech therapy room for activities that support preschool education.
- Procurement of all infrastructure and equipment (furniture, toys, supplies).
- Project schedule: site handover on October 29, 2025; completion expected on October 30, 2026.
Investor Summary
- Workforce: It significantly helps parents of young children enter the workforce → fewer unfilled positions and lower turnover.
- Location: Due to its proximity to Pécs, the recruitment pool is expanding regionally as well.
- Social impact: inclusive services for disadvantaged children → stronger local human capital.
