BC childcare businesses with long waitlists, licensed capacity, and trained early childhood educators (ECEs) command strong multiples. The licence, the waitlist, and the staff are the three pillars of value — buyers pay for the infrastructure that took you years to build.
ECE Operators Expanding
Licensed ECEs or directors seeking to own their own centre or add a second location. Often the most motivated and fastest-moving buyer type.
Corporate Childcare Chains
Regional and national childcare chains actively acquire licensed centres in BC markets they do not yet serve.
Immigrant Investors
Childcare businesses are eligible for BC PNP Entrepreneur applications — particularly in underserved communities.
Regulatory Note
Licence transfer under the Child Care Licensing Regulation requires MCFD notification. The buyer applies for a new licence — the existing licence does not transfer automatically. This takes 60–90 days and should be built into the closing timeline.
$7,500 non-refundable engagement fee, credited at close. Reverse Lehman — minimum $25,000.
10%
First $1M
8%
$1M – $2M
6%
$2M – $3M
4%
Above $3M
Seller Resources
Buyer Side
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