First Nations

Up to $1.02B over 10 yrs

Starting in 2018–19, to support the co-developed Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Framework and strengthen culturally appropriate early learning and child care programs for Indigenous children and families.

Métis

Up to $450.7M over 10 yrs

Métis Nation leaders will sign a co-developed Canada-Métis Nation Early Learning and Child Care Accord on March 6, 2019. Through the accord, the design, delivery, and administration of early learning and child care services for Métis children will be administered by the Governing Members of the Métis Nation.

Inuit

$111M over next 10 yrs

Starting in 2018–19, to support the co-developed Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Framework and strengthen culturally appropriate early learning and child care programs for Indigenous children and families.

2020-2021 Federal Budget Update

As part of its response to the COVID-19 pandemic the Government of Canada is providing an additional $120.7 million to help Indigenous early learning and child care facilities safely operate. The investment will support over 35,000 First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children who access culturally relevant Indigenous early learning and child care programs.

$75M in funding announced in Fall Economic Statement to improve the quality and accessibility of Indigenous child care programs. This funding will enable providers to take steps to improve the retention of Indigenous early childhood educators and offer more flexible and extended hours of care.

Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Quality Improvement Projects

March 4, 2021 – For RFP proposals starting in 2021–22. Priority areas were identified through engagement with First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners. Based on their feedback, proposals should focus on the following key themes:

• development of a vision or framework for a high-quality, culturally appropriate early learning and child care system;
• activities to build and strengthen local child care licensing rules and procedures;
• actions to support ongoing education and training for early learning and child care leaders, management and staff; and
• new tools, curriculum or training to support staff working with children with special needs