Nursing Education Initiative

How does the fund work?

All nurses (both RPNs and RNs) are eligible to apply to the fund. The maximum amount of funding in any one cycle is $1,500. Nurses who have not received $1,500 from this fund will be given priority. Nurses who have received full funding in the previous year will be considered with less priority than those nurses that have not received full funding.

Only complete applications will be considered for reimbursement. A complete application package MUST include a copy of the NEI application form, receipt of payment and proof of successful completion for the education in question (copies acceptable). Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Are there deadlines?

Applications MUST be received within 90 days of the end date of the education. Refer to the application form for eligible dates and submission deadlines. If there are concerns that all documentation may not be available before the 90 day time frame, please contact us directly IN ADVANCE for more information.

What can the funding be used for?

This funding can be used towards tuition or course fees as well as registration fees for conferences. Non-tuition fees such as books, transportation, food etc. are not considered.

How can I get an application?

Applications will be mass mailed to all RPNs in the province of Ontario based upon current registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario. (If you have indicated on your annual payment form with the College of Nurses that you did not want to hear from professional associations, you may not receive one)

Additional Background about the Nursing Education Initiative

In March 1999, the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care announced the establishment of a nurse training and education fund for RNs and RPNs in response to the Nursing Task Force's earlier recommendations. The RNAO is delighted to be involved in this initiative.

The fund is to be used to provide ongoing funding to nurses to increase their knowledge and professional skills to enhance quality of care and services provided within Ontario.

If you are undertaking professional development course(s) and/or program(s), you are eligible for reimbursement of up to $1500.

Nurses who have not received $1,500 from this fund will be given priority.

Nurses who have received full funding in the previous year(s) will be considered with less priority than those nurses that have not received full funding.

Interest in the fund has grown tremendously in the past few years. While an application may qualify, not all nurses will receive funding due to the pressure on the fund.