January 14, 2026 Gatineau, Quebec Employment and Social Development Canada
First Nations, Inuit and Métis children have the right to access high-quality and culturally appropriate early learning and child care programs that reflect their languages, traditions and values. That is why the Government of Canada is investing in early learning and child care that is designed and led by Indigenous governments and communities to build the foundation for children to succeed.
Today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, launched the fourth call for proposals for Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Quality Improvement Projects.
Nearly $47 million of federal funding will be available for approved projects starting in 2026-2027. Funded initiatives can receive up to $2 million with a maximum project duration of 36 months.
Funded projects will focus on at least one of the following themes, which were co-developed with First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners:
defining what high-quality Indigenous early learning and child care (IELCC) means to First Nations, Inuit and Métis;
finding ways to support ongoing education and training for IELCC leaders, management and staff;
building and strengthening local IELCC licensing rules and procedures; and
making tools and training that support IELCC staff working with children with special needs.
First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities, governments, and organizations are encouraged to submit applications by March 25, 2026, at 3:00 pm EDT.
