Funding for Playgroups for Toddlers

In Tyrol, the State of Tyrol supports the establishment of playgroups for toddlers from the first year of life until the transition to kindergarten. Eligible for funding are non-profit associations, public law entities, as well as other non-profit organizations with their own legal personality. These providers can apply for a subsidy of 3 euros per child per month, which is continuously available and has been granted indefinitely since August 16, 2023. There is no fixed application deadline; billing is done semi-annually at the Office for Early Childhood Education and General Education based on the submitted billing form. This instrument promotes initial social experiences outside the family environment and prepares the educational transition to nursery or kindergarten.

Requirements include a publicly accessible offer and proof that a risk analysis according to § 17 para. 1 lit. a TKBetG is available. The documents to be submitted include the fully completed billing form of the state as well as the current risk analysis. There are no costs for submitting the application. The funding amount is calculated based on the average occupancy and weekly opening hours; corresponding records must be submitted with the billing. The billing deadlines are June 20 and November 20 of a calendar year. Changes affecting the funding amount require prior approval from the funding agency, and funds granted on the basis of incorrect information must be repaid. The funding makes an important contribution to enabling providers to offer sustainable, inclusive, and high-quality early childhood care in Tyrol.