Yesterday was Budget Day in Manitoba. It is evident that the provincial government is listening to MCCA and are committed to the prioritization of early learning and child care.
Prior to the budget speech, MCCA was honoured to meet with Tracy Schmidt, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning. At this meeting, the Minister shared a preview about the child care investments.
MCCA was pleased to see a budget that includes the fundamental elements of system building – quality (workforce), accessibility (spaces) and affordability:
- 2.9% increase to wages (with a focus on retention by indexing all levels)
- 1% increase to operating grant
- 21 new child care facilities/2300 new licensed not for profit spaces
- fully subsidized families will pay nothing for child care
The budget speech was described as an economic opportunity budget.
“Investing in you is one of the most important investments we can make for the future of our province.” - Finance Minister, Adrien Sala (speaking with a group of children at a child care facility - March 20, 2026)
YES! They are speaking our language - early years investment results:
- Economic returns – every $1.00 into child care = $1.80 in economic returns
- Developmental growth in children – supporting social and emotional regulation, higher academic success
- Socioeconomic gains – including poverty reduction, lower crime rates, safer communities, healthier families
MCCA looks forward to its continued advocacy to strengthen and expand a high-quality licensed system in Manitoba. There is much more work to be done.
