The Mr Price Foundation is calling on youth-led Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres to apply for its Learning Hubs Pilot Programme 2025, a transformative initiative aimed at empowering young changemakers in the education sector.
Closing Date: 31 October 2025
This pilot programme will support five youth-owned or youth-managed ECD centres located in Limpopo, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal, providing them with the tools, funding, and mentorship needed to build thriving, sustainable learning environments for young children.
About the ECD Learning Hubs Pilot Programme
The ECD Learning Hubs Pilot Programme by Mr Price Foundation is designed to uplift youth-led centres by offering micro-grants, mentorship, and business development support. The goal is to turn promising centres into sustainable ECD models that not only serve children but also strengthen communities.
Through a combination of financial assistance and hands-on mentorship, selected centres will receive the support needed to improve infrastructure, enhance educational programmes, and create impactful learning environments.
Programme Benefits
Centres selected for the Mr Price Foundation ECD Learning Hubs Pilot Programme 2025 will receive:
- Micro-grants of up to R50,000 for infrastructure or programme development.
- Business development training, covering finance, compliance, strategic planning, and marketing.
- Academic support to strengthen literacy, numeracy, and school readiness programmes.
- After-school programme enhancement, helping to create structured, safe spaces for learners.
- Mentorship from experienced business and education specialists.
- Resource packs to improve classroom management, teaching, and operations.
These benefits combine practical skills, financial support, and mentorship to ensure participating centres become strong, sustainable examples of community-based early learning.
Who Can Apply
The Mr Price Foundation is looking for ECD centres that are youth-led and committed to making a difference. To qualify, applicants must:
- Be majority youth-owned or youth-managed.
- Be registered with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) through Bana Pele or the Department of Social Development (DSD).
- Have been operating for at least two years.
- Currently offer or plan to offer after-school programmes.
- Have basic infrastructure (classrooms, toilets, water, play area, and kitchen).
- Show a commitment to improving service delivery and long-term growth.
How to Apply
The application process is simple and accessible for all youth-led centres.
Step 1:
Complete the online application form available on the official application platform
Step 2:
Prepare and submit the following supporting documents with your application:
- Proof of youth ownership or management (e.g., ID copies, governance documents)
- Registration certificate from DBE or DSD
- Recent photographs of facilities (classrooms, toilets, play area, kitchen, etc.)
- Proof that the centre has been operational for at least two years
- A brief description or plan of the after-school programme (current or intended)
- A motivation letter explaining:
- Why your centre should be selected for the pilot
- How the funding will improve your infrastructure or after-school services
Centres are encouraged to submit complete and well-documented applications to improve their chances of selection.
Why This Programme Matters
Early Childhood Development remains one of the most powerful drivers of education and social progress in South Africa. Yet, many youth-run centres face major challenges in securing funding and resources.
The Mr Price Foundation ECD Learning Hubs Pilot Programme bridges that gap by offering meaningful financial support, training, and mentorship to young leaders committed to transforming their communities through education.
This initiative is more than just a funding opportunity—it’s a platform to develop sustainable ECD models that inspire growth and impact future generations.
Conclusion
The Mr Price Foundation: ECD Learning Hubs Pilot Programme 2025 is a rare opportunity for youth-led centres to grow, innovate, and make a lasting difference in their communities. With financial assistance, mentorship, and structured training, the programme paves the way for a stronger, more inclusive early learning ecosystem in South Africa.
If your ECD centre meets the criteria, don’t miss this chance to apply before 31 October 2025 and take a bold step toward shaping a brighter future for young learners.
Thanks for the information you gave me. I wold like you guy’s givesßsome more training also toysg
Thank You, Stay Updated