Closed
Source verified August 15, 2026
Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC)
Affordable child care support in Ontario
Receipt of requests is now closed
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Latest source updateLast Update: August 15, 2026Latest change: Halton’s child care cost page now includes a direct fee subsidy application link and a subsidy calculator for families to check eligibility before applying.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: August 15, 2026
Latest change: Halton’s child care cost page now includes a direct fee subsidy application link and a subsidy calculator for families to check eligibility before applying.
Child care subsidy application link added
The Need Help with the Cost of Child Care page now adds a direct Apply for child care fee subsidy link, changing the visible entry point for families seeking support. It also adds a child care fee subsidy calculator so applicants can check whether they may be eligible before applying. The page still points returning applicants to their previous Child Care Representative or to 311 for follow-up support.
Funding available
Varies by project
Deadline
Closed
Location
Cornwall, Ontario, Canada
Overview
The Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) system supports licensed child care providers in Ontario and helps families through lower fees, including a $22 per day cap for children under age six. It aims to improve affordability, accessibility, quality, and inclusion while expanding spaces and supporting the workforce.
Receipt of requests is now closed
Get notified about updates to this grant.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop a new program or service
- Increase social or community impact
- Enhance an existing program
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Cornwall
- Ontario
Legal structures
- All legal structures
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Reduce child care fees for families.
- Create new licensed child care spaces.
- Address barriers to inclusive child care.
- Support training and development opportunities for the early childhood workforce.
Documents Needed
- Application form
- Proof of not-for-profit status, if applicable
- License issued under the CCEYA
- Certificate of insurance
- Annual operating budget and audited financial statements
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Applicants who live in Halton
Who is not eligible
- Camps and recreation programs serving children 6 to 12 years of age
Eligible expenses
- Operating costs for licensed child care services
- Staff wages and benefits
- Training and professional development
- Administration and IT costs
- Start-up costs for new spaces, such as equipment and renovations
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Camps and recreation programs serving children 6 to 12 years of age are not eligible to participate in CWELCC.
Eligible geographic areas
- Ontario
Selection criteria
- Alignment with local service system priorities for increasing access to the CWELCC program
- Priority neighbourhoods
- Families experiencing low income or underserved in the licensed child care system
How to apply
- Apply for Child Care Fee Subsidy.
- If you have applied before, contact your previous Child Care Representative for support or call 311.
Processing and Agreement
- After a service system manager receives a CWELCC application from a child care applicant or existing licensee, they review the application details and determine whether the program is eligible for enrolment in CWELCC.
- They may follow up with the licensee for more information or to confirm specific program details.
Additional information
- Oxford County does not approve child care licenses. Licensing is managed by the Ministry of Education.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) Program
What is the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC)?
The Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) system supports licensed child care providers in Ontario and helps families through lower fees, including a $22 per day cap for children under age six. It aims to improve affordability, accessibility, quality, and inclusion while expanding spaces and supporting the workforce.
Who is eligible for the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) program?
To be eligible for the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) program, you must:
Licensees may need to demonstrate financial viability.
Licensees must operate in accordance with the purchase of service agreement, the CCEYA, and local requirements.
Licensees must maintain existing licensed spaces for eligible children and keep their licence in good standing.
What expenses are eligible under Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC)?
Reduce child care fees for families.
Create new licensed child care spaces.
Address barriers to inclusive child care.
Support training and development opportunities for the early childhood workforce.
Who can I contact for more information about the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC)?
You can contact County of Wellington by email at HumanServices@cornwall.ca or by phone at 613-933-6282.
Where is the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) available?
The Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) program is available the province of Ontario.
Is the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) is a Grant and Funding
Who are the financial supporters of the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC)?
Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) is funded by County of Wellington