Early Learning and Child Care Business Plan Grant

Operators of Early Years Centres or individuals who intend to operate an Early Years Centre may be eligible for funding to help with the cost of their professional business plan for business expansion planning or new child care facility planning. The Early Learning and Child Care Business Plan Grant is a one-time grant up to $4,000 or 80 percent of the cost of a certified business advisor to develop a business plan. Priority will be given to applicants proposing to increase infant and toddler spaces and located in areas of high need. Eligible applicants will be approved until funds allocated for this program are depleted. Apply using the online form below. 

Approved applicants must submit invoice and receipt of payment from the business professional before funding will be issued.

Why do I need a business plan?

 A business plan can ensure your centre is financially prepared, particularly when you must take on debt to finance the business. It can help you choose whether to proceed with an expansion and is often required to secure funding and/or financing.

A well-designed business plan includes: 

• Your business model and goals; 
• Review of viability of creating or increasing spaces;  
• Human resource (HR) plan to recruit and retain qualified early childhood educators; 
• Customized training such as bookkeeping, HR practices, communication strategies for diverse populations (children, families, staff); 
• IT strategies to manage flow of data for multiple purposes, such as enrolments, parent fee collection, attendance, payroll, etc; and 
• Impact on current operations, if applicable. 

What do I need to complete the online application?

You will be asked to provide: 

• Identity and contact details;
• Description of the business goals; and
• Expected costs for professional fees to develop the business plan, supported by at least one quote from an accounting or business advisory firm.

If you are an operator of an Early Years Centre or currently operating a business, you will also be asked to provide: 

• Business details, including licence number
• Business name and Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) registration number
• Copy of your letter of good standing from the CRA 

How long will it take to process my application?

Please allow three weeks to receive approval. 
Proposals that plan to create new infant or toddler spaces and located in areas of high need will be prioritized.

Who can I contact for more information?

Contact the Manager of Grants Lisa Bernard at lcbernard@gov.pe.ca or by phone at 902-438-4843.