Childminding Development Grant 2025

Applications are now open for the Childminding Development Grant 2025. 

What is a Childminder Development Capital Grant (CMDG)?

The CMDG is a small capital grant designed to assist existing and potential childminders to enhance safety and quality in their childminding service. This includes eligible items required to meet regulations or that may have arisen during a pre-registration assessment.

What funding is available under the CMDG?

A grant of up to €1,000 is available to childminders. Childminders can apply for the full Childminding Development Grant amount every year, but only certain items may be purchased on an annual basis. (See eligible expenditure below and FAQ document).  If the CMDG national budget is oversubscribed, an applicant may receive a lesser amount than applied for.  Successful applicants are paid 75% of the grant in advance, and up to the remaining 25% is paid in arrears. Following the submission and approval of the CMDG Expenditure Report and receipts for up to the full amount granted, South Dublin CCC will inform the successful childminder as to the balance up to 25% that will be paid. (See FAQs for further details).

What can the CMDG be used for?

The CMDG can be used to purchase items that enhance safety and quality in the childminding service. The 2025 CMDG also includes provision for purchase of certain IT equipment, subject to conditions. The Guidelines lists examples of the different types of costs that are eligible and ineligible for the grant.  If you are unsure of eligible spend, contact South Dublin County Childcare Committee for support by emailing info@southdublinchildcare.ie

You can download the CMDG Guidelines (includes the Application Form), FAQ’s for 2025 and Application Form in the links below: