How much funding can be received?

The Inclusive Spaces Program Grant provides a maximum of $15 million over two years to improve accessibility and inclusivity in existing child care programs in Alberta. Eligible activities include infrastructure improvements, such as wheelchair ramps, and the acquisition of inclusive equipment and resources.

grant_single_labels|projects

The Inclusive Spaces Program Grant is designed to enhance accessibility and inclusivity in existing child care environments. Eligible projects focus on infrastructure improvements and equipment acquisition to support children from diverse and vulnerable communities.

Renovations to existing facilities to enhance accessibility, such as installing wheelchair ramps, elevators, or adaptive washrooms.
Creation of adaptable spaces through widening doorways, adding accessible parking or drop-off areas.
Development of multi-sensory rooms and stations for enhanced child engagement.
Purchase of assistive technology devices and sensory equipment to enhance learning environments.
Acquisition of culturally relevant materials and adaptive play structures to promote inclusive play.
Implementation of accessibility enhancements such as elevator installations and installing wheelchair ramps.
Purchase of learning resources in multiple languages and adaptive toys and equipment.

grant_single_labels|admissibility

Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the applicant's profile and the type of facility they operate.

The applicant must be an existing non-profit or private daycare facility, preschool facility, or family day home agency.
The applicant must operate a facility that is not an out-of-school care program, as these programs are ineligible for funding.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

Eligible applicants for the Inclusive Spaces Program Grant include existing non-profit and private daycare and preschool facilities and family day home agencies. Importantly, out-of-school care programs are ineligible for this funding as they do not fall under the Canada-Alberta Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement funding. The grant is designed to support projects that enhance inclusion and accessibility within existing child care facilities.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply

This grant is specifically designed to support existing licensed child care facilities and is not available to certain organizations. Here are the entities restricted from applying for this grant.

Out-of-school care programs, as they are excluded under the Canada-Alberta Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement funding.
Projects aiming to create new spaces or expand existing ones, as the grant focuses on improvements and resource acquisition for existing facilities.
Entities seeking to "stack" the funding with other Government of Alberta or federal government grants for the same project.
Organizations planning projects that are contrary to applicable legislation or regulation.

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

Eligible expenses for the Inclusive Spaces Program Grant are those directly related to project completion under infrastructure improvements and equipment/resource acquisition.

Construction materials and labor costs for renovation of existing structures (such as widening doorways).
Accessibility enhancements like elevator installation and installing wheelchair ramps.
Specialized furniture and mobility aids.
Adaptive play structures and sensory equipment.
Assistive technology devices.
Culturally relevant books, toys, and learning materials.
Professional services, including project design costs and consultation fees for accessibility or inclusion specialists, not to exceed 10% of project value.

grant_eligibility_criteria|zone

This grant is open to eligible child care providers within Alberta, Canada. The program is focused on licensed early learning and child care facilities across the province.

Eligible applicants must be existing non-profit and private daycare and preschool facilities located in Alberta.
Family Day Home Agencies operating in Alberta are eligible to apply.

grant_single_labels|criteria

The evaluation and selection of projects for the Inclusive Spaces Program Grant are based on specific criteria with allocated point scores to ensure alignment with the grant's objectives.

Alignment and Impact: Project demonstrates a clear alignment with the program and a positive impact on the inclusion of children in existing ELCC Program – 25 per cent.
Justification and Project Design: Clear rationale and purpose of proposed project. Proposal clearly defines overall activities, goals, and expected outcomes – 30 per cent.
Feasibility and Timeline: Project's scope is manageable given the resources available (people, experience, budget) and the proposed timeline. The proposal should demonstrate a high probability of completion within the grant's timeframe – 15 per cent.
Budget: Detailed budget with clear justification for all expenses. Budget should reasonably reflect current market conditions, align with project activities, and comply with program guidelines – 15 per cent.
Evaluation Plan: Defines clear metrics and methods to measure project success and impact on inclusion – 15 per cent.

grant_single_labels|register

Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:

Step 1: Access the Application
Download the application form and program guide from the provided government website.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Fill out all required fields in the application form, providing details about your project, including objectives, outcomes, and alignment with the program.
Prepare any supplementary documentation and estimates from qualified contractors for projects involving renovations.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Email the completed application form and all supporting documentation to JET.inclusivespaces@gov.ab.ca.
Ensure submission is made before 11:59 p.m. (MST) on January 31, 2025.
Step 4: Receive Confirmation
Await confirmation or further communication from the government regarding your application status and potential next steps.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

Here is additional relevant information for the Inclusive Spaces Program Grant:

The grant includes a maximum funding pool of $15 million available over two years (2024-2026).
Acknowledgement of the Government of Alberta’s support is encouraged in various forms such as news releases and social media mentions.
The Government of Alberta’s logo is available upon request for acknowledging their support.
Projects that "stack" funding from other provincial or federal sources are not allowed.
Eligible projects should cater to specific community groups such as lower-income families, Indigenous families, and families from underserved communities.
A portion of the grant (up to 10%) can be used for professional services.

grant_single_labels|contact

jet.inclusivespacesgrant@gov.ab.ca

Apply to this program

Unlocking Inclusive Childcare Environments through Grant Funding

The Inclusive Spaces Program Grant offers strategic financial support to childcare providers looking to enhance their facilities and resources to better support diverse and vulnerable communities. This grant underscores the commitment to fostering inclusivity and accessibility within early learning environments across Alberta.

Exploring the Impact and Application of the Inclusive Spaces Program Grant

The Inclusive Spaces Program Grant is a pivotal initiative under the provincial government's child care improvement strategy, aimed at transforming existing childcare environments into inclusive and accessible spaces for children from varied backgrounds. This initiative is part of a comprehensive effort to adapt childcare infrastructures and resources to meet the needs of all children, regardless of their physical abilities or cultural backgrounds. Key elements of this grant include funding streams for infrastructure enhancement and the acquisition of inclusive resources, both critical to creating supportive early learning environments.

Applicants eligible for this grant include non-profit and private daycare and preschool facilities, as well as family day home agencies, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility enhancements rather than expansion of spaces. This ensures that current facilities can adapt to meet existing demand, instead of simply increasing numbers without considering accessibility and cultural or individual educational needs.

The focus on infrastructure improvements helps facilities undertake necessary renovations like installing wheelchair ramps and elevators or creating adaptive washrooms, which are vital for children who require mobility assistance or specialized facilities to participate fully in daily activities. Additionally, by supporting equipment and resource acquisition, the grant empowers facilities to source sensory equipment, culturally responsive materials, and adaptive play structures, hence fostering environments where all children can thrive and feel included.

Another critical aspect of this grant is its strategic distribution of funds. Recipients receive 50% upfront to jumpstart project implementation, with the remaining balance released upon successful project completion and reporting. This structured fund release not only provides immediate financial support but also ensures accountability and progress tracking, which is crucial for effective project management and successful outcomes.

The grant aligns with broader governmental efforts, such as the agreement between Alberta and Canada to develop high-quality, affordable child care systems and reduce childcare costs. However, this specific grant is tailored to ensure inclusivity, a factor growing communities increasingly require. Particularly, it addresses the needs of groups like lower-income families, Indigenous families, lone-parent households, and families with children needing enhanced support, recognizing the diverse landscape that characterizes Alberta's population growth.

Eligible projects must be meticulously planned to fit within a 12-month completion window. This encourages efficiency and ensures that improvements are made promptly to benefit children as soon as possible. The adherence to such timelines reflects a dedication to swiftly improving childcare environments, reducing wait times, and integrating inclusive practices in a timely manner.

The Inclusive Spaces Program Grant stands as a significant opportunity for child care professionals committed to developing an equitable and inclusive learning landscape. By supporting both physical infrastructure and educational materials, this grant helps pave the way for diverse, inclusive, and engaging environments that cater to the unique needs of all children. As facilities transform with this funding, they not only comply with necessary accessibility standards but actively enhance the quality of child care offered across the province, thereby setting comprehensive benchmarks for inclusive child care practices.