Ontario's
Early Childhood Educators
Upgrade & Leadership Programs
Our Mission
Financially supporting individuals who are studying in the field, working at home or in a centre-based agency in Ontario, to obtain their ECE Qualifications Upgrade diploma or Leadership certification. Find out how you can become eligible for education, travel, and even training grants. Both the Provincial and Federal Governments are making this investment to address ECE shortages across the province.
Funding History
Since September 2007 funding has been provided through the Ontario Provincial Government to provide financial support for educational attainment in Early Childhood Education. Since the program’s inception, interest in the Early Childhood Educators Qualifications Upgrade and Leadership programs have continued to grow at an encouraging pace. To date, we have now provided financial assistance to over 13,000 individuals.
Program Types
Financially supporting Early Childhood Educators in Ontario, to obtain their ECE Qualifications Upgrade diploma or Leadership certification. There are 4 academic program types available throughout post-secondary schools across Ontario.
Early Childhood Education
Éducation en service à l'enfance
Native Early Childhood Education
ECE Leadership Certification
Available Grants
Financial support for ECE Qualification Upgrades are available to eligible applicants in the form of an education grant, travel grant, and training allowance. Part-time support is also available through education and travel grants, specific to the ECE Leadership certification.
Limited Funding Available
Applications are processed on a first come, first serve basis, once all documents required to process an application have been received. Funding is based on the number of applications received, and available funding per semester.
There is limited funding available through these programs, and therefore individuals are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.
Education Grants
Education Grants
Education grants are currently available and cover full-time and part-time tuition fees related to a recognized Early Childhood Education diploma or leadership certification.
Travel Grants
Travel Grants
Travel grants are available to assist grant recipients with daily commute expenses incurred to attend classes and or complete the placement component of their program.
Training Allowance
Training Allowance
Assisting with living expenses and incremental costs incurred while pursuing a ECE diploma. Earn up to $5,000 per semester for full-time, and $300 per course for part-time studies.
