British Columbia increases funding for Early Childhood Educators

On May 24, 2024, the government of British Columbia announced additional funding to support early childhood educators (ECEs). The ECE Education Support Fund will receive an extra $45 million, benefiting new ECE students and those currently upgrading their credentials. Managed by Early Childhood Educators of BC (ECEBC), the fund provides up to $5,000 per semester for eligible ECE students. An additional $11 million is allocated for new and ongoing professional learning opportunities. This funding supports the ECE Peer Mentoring and Early Years Professional Development Bursary programs. The ECE Education Support Fund is backed by provincial investments and federal funding under the 2021-22 to 2025-26 Canada-British Columbia Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement.