You may be eligible for INCENTIVE$ in Marion County if you meet the following criteria:
  • Earn less than $25.00 per hour as an early childhood educator in Marion County. This includes Directors, Teachers, Assistant Teachers, Floaters or Family Child Care Home educators.
  • Work in a licensed or license-exempt child care program (center or family child care home)
  • Be employed at least six months at this same child care program at the time of employment confirmation
  • Work in a School Readiness or VPK site contracted with the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County
  • Work in your program at least 20 hours per week with children birth to 5 years of age
  • Have at least one of the education levels listed on the INCENTIVE$ Scale (from a regionally accredited college)

*All INCENTIVE$ stipend payments are contingent upon funding availability. Please direct any funding related questions to your local Early Learning Coalition.

ELC Marion County Logo_May 2025
Attn: Marion County Early Educators

As of July 2025, the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County will no longer be providing the INCENTIVE$ Program. Please contact our office at 352-369-2315 for more information or to share your concerns.

We encourage you to continue your educational journey with the TEACH Early Childhood® Scholarship Program. Please visit their website for professional development opportunities.