This brief examines ways early childhood investments enable progression through the talent development system on the path to upward economic mobility for children, parents and families, and the workforce of early childhood educators and caregivers. In it we explore more fully the links between early childhood education investments and economic mobility, drawing on academic journal articles, policy papers, and other think-tank, philanthropic, and social sector reports. This research continues to inform MDC’s place-based work and offers knowledge that can help communities identify local policies and practices that have the strongest potential to improve the early childhood ecosystem and the broader infrastructure of opportunity. (author abstract)