Updates to ECAP Expand Support for Caymanian Families
The Ministry of Education and Training has announces updates to the Early Childhood Assistance Programme (ECAP) aimed at expanding access and strengthening support for Caymanian families.
ECAP provides funding to help children access early childhood care and education. To qualify, children must be Caymanian and turn three years old before 1 September of the academic year, and their parents or guardians must meet financial means-testing requirements. The programme represents an important social investment, helping to build a strong foundation for future learning and improved long-term learner outcomes.
Under the updated policy, families who exceed the current income threshold may now still be considered for support under a new financial hardship provision. Households with a monthly income above CI$5,500 may qualify for basic funding if they can demonstrate that essential living expenses—such as accommodation, food, utilities, and transportation—account for 90% or more of their income. Applications under this category will be assessed based on documented evidence and reviewed by the ECAP Oversight Committee, with approvals granted for a defined period where appropriate and subject to budget availability.
In addition, funding amounts have also been increased to better reflect the cost of early childhood education, with basic funding now set at CI$625 per month and supplementary funding at CI$937 per month.
Designated third parties are also now permitted to apply for ECAP on behalf of a parent or legal guardian, providing greater flexibility and support for families who may need assistance navigating the application process.
The revised policy aligns with the Government’s Strategic Policy Statement 2026–2028, supporting equitable access to high-quality education and reinforcing the Government’s commitment to enhancing early childhood support.
Minister for Education and Training, Hon. Rolston Anglin, stated:
“The updates to ECAP reflect our commitment to ensuring that no Caymanian child is left behind due to financial circumstances. By introducing greater flexibility for families experiencing financial hardship, increasing funding support, and making the application process more accessible, we are investing not only in our children, but in the future strength and resilience of our country. Early childhood education is one of the most impactful investments we can make as a nation.”
Applications for ECAP for the 2026/27 academic year opened on 1 April 2026 and will close on 31 March 2027. Families who apply by 31 July will receive notification of an outcome via email by early September. Parents and guardians can review eligibility requirements and submit applications online at moeapplications.gov.ky.
For more information, please email the Ministry’s Early Childhood Care and Education Unit at ecap@gov.ky or call 244-3155 or 244-3151. The updated ECAP policy can be viewed at gov.ky/web/moet/publications.
