Closed
Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Quality Improvement Projects
Funding for Indigenous child care quality improvements
Last Update: May 15, 2026
Funding available
$ 2,000,000
Timeline
- Closing date : April 16, 2026
Location
Quebec, Canada
Overview
This program provides up to $2 million per project over a maximum of 36 months. It supports Indigenous early learning and child care quality improvement projects that develop best practices, innovative models, training tools, and stronger licensing and governance approaches.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase social or community impact
- Improve governance or administrative structure
- Develop strategic partnerships
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 2,000,000 $
Timeline
- Closing date : April 16, 2026
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Health care and social assistance
Location
- Quebec
Legal structures
- Non-profit
- Public or Parapublic institution
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Indigenous Peoples
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Primary and Secondary Education
- Other Education
- Social Services
- Economic, Social and Community Development
- Children and Youth Organizations
- Diversity and Inclusion
Target groups
- Children & youth
- Indigenous peoples
- People with disabilities
Revenue structures
- 100% donations / grants
Scope
- National
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Developing or testing new ideas to improve Indigenous early learning and child care
- Designing Indigenous-led governance and partnership models
- Building training and professional development for IELCC leaders and staff
- Strengthening local licensing rules and procedures
- Creating tools and training for staff supporting children with special needs
Documents Needed
- Completed application form EMP5523
- Partner confirmation letter(s), if applicable
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Indigenous communities
- Indigenous governments
- Indigenous organizations
Eligible expenses
- Wages and employment-related costs
- Overhead and administrative support costs
- Professional fees such as consulting, research, evaluation, translation, and facilitation
- Utilities, insurance, and premises rental
- Project evaluation and reporting costs
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Land or building purchases
- Construction, maintenance, or repair of Indigenous ELCC facilities
- Equipment for ELCC facility operations
- Ongoing operations or direct service delivery costs
- Costs incurred before agreement signing or ministerial approval
Eligible geographic areas
- Canada
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are first screened for eligibility and completeness.
- Eligible proposals are assessed against program objectives, project relevance, activities, results, and budget.
- Additional consideration may be given to partnerships and to geographical and sectoral representation.
- Funding decisions are expected in Fall 2026.
- If approved, an agreement must be signed before funding can be accepted.
Additional information
- Only one application per organization is permitted.
- Applicants in Quebec or Alberta may need provincial approval before accepting funding.
- Information sessions are offered online or by teleconference.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Quality Improvement Projects Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Quality Improvement Projects. This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.
What is the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Quality Improvement Projects?
This program provides up to $2 million per project over a maximum of 36 months. It supports Indigenous early learning and child care quality improvement projects that develop best practices, innovative models, training tools, and stronger licensing and governance approaches.
How much funding can be received?
Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Quality Improvement Projects Funds up to $2,000,000 of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Quality Improvement Projects program?
To be eligible for the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Quality Improvement Projects program, you must:
Indigenous community, government, or organization
Located in Canada
Project aligned with program objectives
What expenses are eligible under Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Quality Improvement Projects?
Developing or testing new ideas to improve Indigenous early learning and child care
Designing Indigenous-led governance and partnership models
Building training and professional development for IELCC leaders and staff
Strengthening local licensing rules and procedures
Creating tools and training for staff supporting children with special needs
Who can I contact for more information about the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Quality Improvement Projects?
You can contact Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
Where is the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Quality Improvement Projects available?
The Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Quality Improvement Projects program is available the province of Quebec.
Is the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Quality Improvement Projects a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Quality Improvement Projects is a Grant and Funding