Childminders in Donegal are being urged to apply for aGovernment grant scheme that covers the cost of educational equipment.
Applications are open for the 2025 Childminding Development Grant, which provides up to €1,000 to assist both registered and unregistered childminders who are providing a childminding service in their own homes.
The grant supports the purchase of toys, childcare equipment, safety equipment, equipment to support inclusion and Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Maths (STEAM) education. The grant can also be used for the purchase of IT equipment to assist childminders to engage with training and registration processes.
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.
Trish McLaughlin from the Donegal County Childcare Committee said that “The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth’s Childminding Development Grant has been a huge benefit to many childminders in County Donegal.”
“Any childminder with any questions about applying for the grant is welcome to contact us on 074 91 23442.”
Making the announcement, Children’s Minister Norma Foley said:
“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 in County Donegal 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.”
“The Childminding Development Grant provides funding for quality and safety equipment and can also be used to contribute to IT equipment”
