Typical Costs to Consider
Planning for Baby-Friendly Initiative (BFI) implementation and designation includes identifying and preparing for a range of potential expenses. While the overall cost will differ across organizations based on size, setting, and readiness, most facilities encounter several common categories of investment throughout the process.
These generally include:
Education and training for staff*
Building staff competency (knowledge, skills and attitudes) is a core requirement for meeting BFI standards.
To estimate expenses, facilities should consider the number and roles of staff who require training. Training-related costs will vary depending on how education is delivered within the organization. These costs may include accessing external education opportunities, developing or adapting internal learning resources, and supporting staff participation in training.
Facilities may also need to account for time away from regular duties, any required materials or equipment, and, where applicable, travel or other expenses associated with attending training outside the organization.
Ongoing education is essential. This includes orientation and training for new staff, as well as regular refresher sessions to support sustained BFI implementation.
Facilities should account for staff time dedicated to BFI-related activities. This may include data collection and analysis, chart audits, participation in quality improvement initiatives, updating policies and procedures, preparing for assessments, and ongoing monitoring to maintain BFI standards.
Purchasing breastmilk substitutes and infant feeding supplies
In alignment with the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes, facilities are required to ensure that all relationships with manufacturers and distributors are appropriate and free from commercial influence. This includes purchasing breast milk substitutes (e.g., infant formula), bottles, nipples, pacifiers, and related supplies at fair market value, and not accepting free or subsidized products. Organizations may need to review and revise procurement, inventory, and distribution practices to ensure full compliance with BFI standards.
Recognition Program and External Assessment costs
Facilities participating in the Recognition Program and External Assessment contribute fees that support the delivery of a structured, evidence-based process for achieving and maintaining Baby-Friendly Initiative designation. These costs enable access to national expertise, including mentorship, standardized assessment tools, and coordinated evaluation by trained reviewers. Facilities also benefit from access to data platforms, quality improvement resources, and ongoing support that help streamline implementation, demonstrate progress, and sustain improvements over time.
For detailed information on current costs, facilities are encouraged to contact the BFI Assessment Committee.
* Staff includes those who are paid or non-paid, employed, contractual, or holding professional privileges.