Maximize Your Training Opportunities with the Educational Incentive Program (EIP)
At ChildCareEd, we are committed to supporting #early-childhood #educators and caregivers in enhancing their knowledge and skills. One great way to make training more affordable is through the Educational Incentive Program (EIP), a scholarship initiative provided by the New York Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). Many New York providers use EIP to pay for ChildCareEd courses such as the 45-Hour Group Child Care Training Buy Now
$399.00$199.00 and the CDA Credentialing Course Buy Now
$500.00$400.00; confirm eligibility with OCFS or your county training specialist before enrolling.
The EIP offers funding to help #staff and caregivers pay for approved training and educational activities. This program is designed with the goal of improving the quality of child care by strengthening the knowledge, skills, and competencies of child care providers.
View the latest EIP Brochure: Comprehensive Guide to the Educational Incentive Program for Child Care Providers.
The Educational Incentive Program is a scholarship program that provides financial support to those working in child care settings, helping them access approved training and educational programs. The program's purpose is to empower caregivers and providers to enhance their professional #growth, which in turn benefits the children in their care.

Application steps and documentation requirements can vary by county and the OCFS application cycle. Typical application items include proof of employment at a licensed child care program, a training plan or course invoice, and valid identification. Begin by contacting your county's OCFS training coordinator or the EIP administrator to confirm the current application window and required forms. The EIP award process involves eligibility determinations and, where funding is approved, either direct payment to approved training vendors or reimbursement of documented costs; providers should expect to submit invoices, attendance rosters or certificates, and any required program training plans. Retain copies of invoices, certificates of completion and correspondence because counties and OCFS may audit records and require documentation for reimbursement timelines. For New York-focused guidance that explains pre-service and training documentation, see our overview: What do child care providers need to know about pre-service trainings in New York?. If you need tips for completing OCFS hours while working, consult: How can New York childcare providers finish OCFS training hours quickly and affordably online?.
EIP funding can cover credentialing and professional development when the training appears on the approved list. Many New York providers use EIP to support CDA coursework and OCFS health-and-safety trainings, but acceptance depends on OCFS approval and local policy. For step-by-step help using New York grants for credentialing, see: How can I follow the CDA credentialing roadmap and use NY State grants to pay for it? and How Can New York Childcare Workers Earn Their CDA Online While Working Full Time?. Always confirm coverage with the OCFS EIP coordinator or your county training contact before assuming a course is payable.
For more detailed information on how to apply for the EIP Scholarship and to see a list of eligible training programs, visit our page here: EIP Scholarship Information on ChildCareEd.
At ChildCareEd, we offer a variety of courses that qualify for EIP funding. These courses are designed to build your skills, knowledge, and competencies in #early-childhood-education. Whether you're looking to gain new insights into child development or seeking professional certification, we’ve got you covered.
Some of our most popular EIP-approved training programs include:
For more information on these and other courses, check out our course offerings here. You can also browse our list of New York ChildCareEd approved online courses to identify programs pre-approved for OCFS/EIP funding and enroll online.
For additional context about how providers combine EIP with other funding, see our reviews of grants and program bundles that New York providers have used: Can grants and vouchers in New York help child care providers? and What bundles are available now in New York and how can they help my program?.
To support you in your ongoing professional journey, ChildCareEd provides a wealth of resources to guide and inform your practice. Learn how other New York providers have used EIP and related funding in our review of grants and vouchers: Can grants and vouchers in New York help child care providers?, and see program bundle options that may work with EIP funding: What bundles are available now in New York and how can they help my program?.
Stay up-to-date on all the latest news, updates, and training opportunities by following us on our social media platforms. We regularly share tips, resources, and updates that can help you in your journey as a child care professional.
Follow us on social media:
By taking advantage of the EIP Scholarship, you can enhance your child care practice while making the most of available financial support. Don’t wait—apply today and begin your journey toward furthering your education and #career-in child care!
For more information, visit ChildCareEd.
EIP can reduce the financial barrier to earning credentials, completing required OCFS hours, and improving classroom practice. This article explains what EIP is, how to apply, typical documentation, and how providers commonly use awards to support CDA and OCFS-related trainings. Before you enroll, confirm course eligibility with your county OCFS EIP coordinator, retain receipts and training plans, and document communications to support timely reimbursement requests. For more New York-specific FAQs and stepwise help, follow the linked guides above or contact your OCFS training specialist.
By utilizing the EIP, you're not only investing in your professional development but also ensuring a brighter future for the children in your care.