Free guide · 2026 edition

Funding Schemes and Grants for Irish Childcare Centres in 2026

A comprehensive guide to every major funding opportunity available to Irish childcare providers – from Core Funding and the NCS to capital grants, inclusion supports, and workforce schemes.

What you’ll learn

  • How Core Funding works and what the €405 million 2026 allocation means for your centre’s income and stability.
  • A full breakdown of the National Childcare Scheme (NCS) and how to maximise participation to attract more families.
  • Building Blocks Capital grants – how to apply for expansion, retrofit, and green energy funding for your premises.
  • AIM and Equal Start supports for inclusion, and how extended hours funding applies beyond ECCE from September 2024.
  • Workforce funding: the Nurturing Skills Learner Fund, employee assistance schemes, and childminding development grants.
  • Practical steps for organising documentation, meeting deadlines, and working with your local City/County Childcare Committee.
  • €1.48bn

    Budget 2026 allocation for early learning and childcare

  • 286k

    Children estimated to benefit from the NCS in 2026

  • +70%

    Increase in State investment in the sector since 2020