Starting a daycare business can be a highly rewarding venture, but navigating the regulatory landscape and funding options—especially under the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) program—can be complex.
Whether the goal is to open a new childcare centre, purchase an existing one, or join a franchise system, early decisions will significantly impact CWELCC eligibility, operational support, and business complexity. These decisions also depend on whether the organization is non-profit or for-profit, and on the municipality’s specific policies regarding CWELCC enrollment.
The “Starting a Daycare Selection” chart provides a clear, visual breakdown of the five most common entry pathways into the childcare sector. It outlines:
- Eligibility for CWELCC based on organizational structure and regional policy
- Recommended experience levels for operators or owners
- The difficulty level and operational considerations for each path
This decision tree serves as a practical guide for aspiring daycare operators to evaluate their options and identify the most suitable path forward based on experience, business goals, and regional conditions.
