Running a licensed child care facility in British Columbia is expensive. Wages, rent, food, and supplies all add up, while families expect fees to stay affordable. Child Care Operating Funding (CCOF) Base Funding helps by providing monthly operating support to eligible child care providers across BC.
This guide explains how CCOF Base Funding works, who qualifies, how much you can receive, and how to apply.
CCOF Base Funding is a monthly subsidy for licensed child care providers in BC. It is part of the ChildCareBC initiative, funded by the Province of British Columbia and the Government of Canada.
The main goals are to:
Base Funding is the starting point for CCOF. You must get Base Funding before you can access other programs like the Fee Reduction Initiative and Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Wage Enhancement.
To qualify for CCOF Base Funding, your facility must meet all of these requirements:
New providers can apply, but you must set parent fees at or below regional affordability benchmarks to be approved.
If your facility does not get CCOF Base Funding, you cannot access related CCOF programs.
CCOF Base Funding is paid every month and is calculated for each enrolled child.
There is no fixed maximum per facility. Total funding increases with your licensed capacity and enrolment.
Funds can be used for:
CCOF Base Funding is usually treated as operating revenue for tax purposes. Check reporting requirements with your accountant.
The Province of British Columbia manages the application process.
Check your licence
Make sure your facility licence is active and in good standing.
Apply online
Applications are submitted through the Child Care Operating Funding portal.
Set parent fees
New applicants must set fees at or below regional affordability benchmarks.
Agree to program rules
This includes limits on fee increases and policies around closures.
Submit required reports
Approved providers must complete the annual Provider Profile Survey.
There is no fixed deadline. CCOF Base Funding is ongoing, and applications are accepted while funding remains available.
Using GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly check if your child care facility qualifies and find related provincial funding programs.
Raising parent fees without approval
Increasing fees beyond allowed limits can lead to loss of CCOF funding.
Thinking Base Funding is optional
You must get Base Funding to access fee reduction and wage enhancement programs.
Missing annual reporting
Not completing the Provider Profile Survey can put your funding at risk.
Applying before your licence is active
Only fully licensed and operating facilities are approved.
Q: How often is CCOF Base Funding paid?
Payments are made monthly to approved child care providers, based on reported enrolment.
Q: Can new child care centres apply for CCOF Base Funding?
Yes. New providers are eligible if they are licensed and set fees at or below regional affordability benchmarks.
Q: Is CCOF Base Funding guaranteed every year?
The program is ongoing, but funding depends on government budgets and following program rules.
Q: Can I use CCOF Base Funding for equipment or supplies?
Yes. Funds can be used for general operating expenses, including equipment and materials.
Q: What happens if my centre closes temporarily?
Temporary or permanent closures must follow provincial policies. Not following these rules may lead to funding suspension or repayment.
Child Care Operating Funding Base Funding is an important support for licensed child care providers in BC. If you need stable monthly funding to keep fees affordable and pay staff, this program is essential.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of grant and funding programs across Canada, including provincial child care funding. You can check which programs match your facility type, location, and licence status.
See also:
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