Childminders encouraged to apply for €1,000 grant scheme

Today, February 4, Norma Foley, Minister for Children, Disability and Equality has announced the opening of the 2025 Childminding Development Grant.

This Childminding Development Grant will provide up to €1,000 to assist registered and unregistered childminders who are providing a childminding service in their own homes.

The grant has been set up to support childminders so they can enhance quality and safety in their service. This can be achieved through the purchase of toys, childcare equipment, safety equipment, equipment to support inclusion and Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Maths (STEAM) education, as well as IT equipment to assist childminders to engage with training and registration processes.

It has been confirmed that the grant scheme is open to all childminders, including those who are planning to open a childminding business during 2025. 75% of the grant is paid in advance to help childminders with the upfront costs of purchasing equipment.

Making today’s announcement, Minister Foley revealed, “I am delighted to announce the launch of the 2025 Childminding Development Grant as one of the first actions in my term of office as Minister”.

“Childminders play an essential part in the provision of childcare in all parts of the country, and I am fully committed to recognising and supporting their important role, and to following through on the National Action Plan for Childminding 2021-2028”.

“I encourage childminders to avail of this funding opportunity, whether they are already registered or would like support in advance of registration over the next couple of years.

Foley added, “The Childminding Development Grant provides funding for quality and safety equipment and can also be used to contribute to IT equipment”.

The total budget for the scheme is €500,000, proving the high demand for the grant in previous years.