Childminding Development Grants for 2026 Launched
The Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley has announced the opening of the 2026 Childminding Development Grant.
Applications for the 2026 Childminding Development Grant start on Wednesday, 11 February and close on Wednesday, 15 April.
The Childminding Development Grant provides up to €1,000 to assist childminders, who are providing a childminding service in their own homes. The Grant scheme is open to all childminders, including registered childminders, those that are yet to register, and those who are planning to open a childminding business during 2026.
The Grant aims to support childminders to enhance quality and safety in their service through the purchase of toys, childcare equipment, safety equipment, equipment to support inclusion and STEM and the Arts education (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) as well as IT equipment to assist childminders to engage with training and registration processes. 75% of the Grant is paid in advance to help childminders with the upfront costs of purchasing equipment.