Space creation funding and resources
Last updated on March 5, 2024Through ChildCareBC, more than 34,000 new licensed child care spaces for children 0 to 12 have been created in B.C., with thousands more on the way. Learn about funding and grants to create new spaces.
ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund
The ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund provides funding to create new licensed child care, helping to make affordable, quality, and inclusive child care a core service that families can depend on, while strengthening communities throughout British Columbia. Eligible organizations include public sector, Indigenous governments, not-for-profit organizations and Indigenous not-for-profit organizations only.
Start-Up Grants
The Start-Up Grants program is designed to increase the number of licensed child care spaces available to B.C. families by supporting individuals who want to operate a licensed child care facility in their personal residence. The grant assists with the costs associated with obtaining a Family, In-Home Multi-Age (IHMA), or Group Care licence type.
Open a child care business
The requirements for starting a child care business are different, depending on which type of child care provider you plan to be.
For additional tools and resources to help with your business planning, visit the Employment, Business & Economic Development resource page on Starting a Business.
Operating a licensed child care facility
Rules and guidelines for licensed child care facilities are found in the Community Care and Assisted Living Act, the Child Care Licensing Regulation, and the standards of practice. This page also contains helpful resources and additional information for already licensed or potential new operators.