Are you a youth-led Early Childhood Development (ECD) centre ready to expand your impact and create brighter futures for young children? The Mr Price Foundation has announced an exciting new initiative – the ECD Learning Hubs Pilot Programme – aimed at empowering five majority youth-owned or youth-run centres in Limpopo, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal.
This pilot programme is designed to strengthen youth-led centres through micro seed funding, tailored mentorship, and development support, turning them into thriving ECD Learning Hubs.
What’s in it for Your Centre?
Selected centres will enjoy a package of benefits that go far beyond funding. The goal is to create holistic growth that supports children, educators, and the community at large. Benefits include:
- Up to R50,000 micro-grants for infrastructure and programme development.
- Business development training covering finance, compliance, planning, and marketing.
- Academic support to strengthen literacy, numeracy, and school readiness.
- After-school programme enhancement to create safe, structured spaces for learners.
- Mentorship from both business and education specialists to guide long-term success.
- Resource packs to improve teaching, learning, and day-to-day operations.
This combination of financial aid, capacity-building, and mentorship ensures that centres are equipped to become sustainable models of quality ECD.
Who Should Apply?
The programme is specifically targeting youth-led centres that already have a footprint in their communities. To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Majority youth-owned or youth-managed.
- Registered with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) through Bana Pele, or with the Department of Social Development (DSD).
- Operating for at least two years.
- Already offering, or planning to offer, after-school programmes.
- Equipped with basic infrastructure such as classrooms, toilets, water, a play area, and a kitchen.
- Demonstrating ambition and commitment to improving service delivery.
How to Apply
The application process is straightforward and youth-friendly:
Step 1: Complete the online application form here: Apply Now
Step 2: Submit your application along with the following supporting documents:
- Proof of youth ownership or management (ID copies, governance documents).
- Registration certificate from DBE or DSD.
- Photos of your facilities (classrooms, toilets, play area, kitchen, etc.).
- Proof of operation for at least two years.
- Description or plan of your after-school programme (current or intended).
- A motivation letter explaining:
- Why your centre should be selected for the pilot.
- How the seed funding will strengthen your infrastructure or after-school activities.
DOWNLOAD THE MR PRICE FOUNDATION: EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT (ECD) LEARNING HUBS PILOT PROGRAMME ADVERT HERE
Why This Matters
South Africa’s ECD sector is a cornerstone for long-term social and educational development, yet many centres face financial and resource challenges. The Mr Price Foundation’s pilot programme offers a unique opportunity for youth-led centres to gain recognition, improve operations, and build resilience.
If your centre has the passion and vision to grow, this initiative could be the stepping stone toward becoming a leading ECD hub in your community.
Our Conclusion
Opportunities like this don’t come around often. If you are a youth-led ECD centre in Limpopo, Eastern Cape, or KwaZulu-Natal, make sure you take the next step and apply. The support offered goes beyond funding – it’s a chance to build a legacy of early childhood education excellence.
CLOSING DATE: 31 OCTOBER 2025
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