how to write a business plan for a daycare

The Daycare Business Plan Blueprint (Examples + Template)

April 14, 2022

Adam Hoeksema

Starting a daycare business can be a daunting task. There are so many things to think about and plan for. You need to find the perfect location, get the right licenses and permits, hire qualified staff, and, most importantly, create a daycare business plan. 

Creating a daycare business plan is one of the most important steps in starting your business. A well-thought-out business plan will help you get funding, attract investors, and operate your business effectively. 

The bad news is that there is a lot of advice out there on writing a business plan. With so much information and tons of daycare business plan examples to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. 

The good news is, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll give you a comprehensive guide on how to write a daycare business plan. We will also provide some examples and a free daycare business plan template to get you started. 

But First...Is a Daycare a Good Business to Start? 

Before we talk about how to create a daycare business plan, let's first answer the question: is starting a daycare a good business to get into? 

The answer is a resounding yes! The daycare industry is growing rapidly. It is one of the few businesses that are not only recession-proof but also thrives in uncertain economic times. 

According to the National Association of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies (NACCRRA), the demand for child care services has increased by 26% over the last decade. This demand is only expected to grow in the coming years. 

When it comes to profitability, the daycare industry is very attractive. According to IBISWorld , the average profit margin for a daycare business is around 15%. That's higher than the average for most other industries! 

If you're thinking about starting a daycare business, know that you are getting into a very profitable and in-demand industry. Now let's talk about how to write a daycare business plan that will help you start and grow your business successfully.

How to Create a Daycare Business Plan 

A daycare business plan is as simple as a word document with the following sections:

• Business Description
• Market Analysis

Business Model

• Location and Facility
• Marketing Plan
• Financial Plan

Executive Summary

This article will provide context of what to include in each section of your daycare business plan. As you work on writing your business plan, you will want to grab our daycare financial projection template as well in order to complete the financial plan section.

Your daycare business plan should be an elevator pitch in itself. It should be attractive to potential partners and investors. Basically, it should give them a clear idea of your business, where it is located, what services you offer, who your target market is, and how you plan to make money. 

Creating a daycare business plan doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, the cheapest and easiest approach is to simply start with a blank word document and work through each of the above sections, it can be pretty easy. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to create a daycare business plan: 

Create a Compelling Business Description

Your daycare business's unique selling point (USP) should be the first thing you include in your business plan. What is it that makes your daycare center different from all the others? 

This description should be the foundation of your marketing efforts as well.

There are a few questions you should answer in your company description. They include:

What's your Curriculum Based On?

Potential investors, partners, and even customers will be interested in knowing what your curriculum is based on. This will help them understand the environment children will be in a while under your care. 

When describing your curriculum, make sure to include:

• What age ranges do you cater for?
• The type of care you offer (full-time, part-time, drop-in) 
• Your educational philosophy 
• The activities and programs you offer 

For example, if your daycare is unique by offering a Montessori curriculum, you will want to highlight that.  In fact, you can learn more about how to start a Montessori program here . 

How Big is Your Facility? 

The size of your facility will say a lot about the type of operation you're running. Are you a small, home-based daycare or a large center with multiple classrooms? 

This section of your business plan may include: 

• A floor plan of your facility 
• The capacity of your facility 
• The number of employees you have 
• Type of equipment and furniture you have 

Who Is Your Target Market? 

You can't market to everyone, so you must identify your target market. This will help you focus your marketing efforts and ensure that you're reaching the right people. 

Below is a daycare business plan example that shows how your business description should be:

“ABC Daycare is a small, home-based daycare located in San Francisco, CA. We cater to children aged 0-12 years old and offer full-time, part-time, and drop-in care. 

Our curriculum is based on the Reggio Emilia approach, emphasizing hands-on learning and collaboration. Activities and programs include arts and crafts, music, and outdoor play. 

Our facility can accommodate up to 12 children at a time. We have a staff of four employees who are all CPR and First Aid certified. 

Our target market is working parents in the city who need quality child care but can't afford the rates of larger daycare centers.  We've created an affordable subscription-based pricing model for our target market to fulfill the demand. We generate revenue through monthly subscriptions and have low operating costs due to our small size. 

Our suppliers are local businesses that provide us with food, toys, and other supplies.” 

Do a Thorough Market Analysis

After writing a compelling description of your business, you need to do a thorough marketing analysis. This analysis will help you determine your target market, what type of advertising and promotion will work best, and how to price your services. 

You should also research the competition and see what they are doing right and wrong. This information will be invaluable as you create your daycare business plan.

Keep these things in mind when doing a market analysis:

The Size of Your Market

This is determined by the number of potential customers in your area who need or want your services. 

For example, if you live in a small town with only a few thousand people, there may not be enough demand to support a large daycare facility. 

On the other hand, if you live in a city with hundreds of thousands of people, there may be room for multiple daycare facilities. 

Your target market is the segment of the population that is most likely to use your services. This includes factors like age, income, education, and location. 

After you've identified your target market, you need to show how you plan on fulfilling the demand. This is where your business model comes in. 

Your business model is a detailed description of how your daycare will operate daily. It should include: 

• How do you plan on acquiring customers? 
• What are your pricing strategies? 
• How will you generate revenue? 
• What are your operating costs? 
• Who are your suppliers? 

Your business model should be detailed and easy to understand. It should also be realistic and achievable. 

Here is a daycare business plan example of a business model for a small daycare center: 

“The daycare will be open Monday through Friday from six in the morning to six at night. We will offer care for children ages six weeks to twelve years old. 

Our rates will be $50 per week for one child and $40 per week for each additional child from the same family. We will offer a discount of $20 per week for families who enroll their children for an entire year. 

We will generate revenue by charging weekly rates for our services. Our operating costs will include rent, utilities, supplies, and salaries for our employees. Also, we will acquire customers through online advertising and word-of-mouth.” 

As you can see, a business model is a detailed description of how your business will operate. It's essential to have one in place before promoting and selling your services. 

One thing you should not forget to include in your daycare business plan is the location of your business and your rental agreement. If you are renting a space, including the terms of your agreement and how long you have the space. If you are purchasing a property, include information on the property, such as square footage and any special features that will help your business stand out. 

This daycare business plan example shows you how to include this vital information: 

“The daycare will be located at 123 Main Street in a commercial space currently leased by the owner. The lease agreement is for three years with an option to renew for an additional three years. The monthly rent is $2000, and the security deposit is $3000. 

The daycare will have exclusive use of the main floor, including a large open play area, a small kitchen, two bathrooms, and four classrooms. The daycare will also have access to the outdoor playground.

80% of our space will be used for childcare, with the other 20% used for our administrative offices and staff lounge. 

We have chosen this location because it is close to several residential neighborhoods and has easy access to public transportation. The space is also large enough to accommodate our future growth.” 

There are many daycare business plan templates you can use to help you get started. This is a basic outline of what should be included.

Daycare Marketing Plan

Most daycare business plan templates will include a section for your marketing plan. Most people overlook the marketing aspect of their business, but it is one of the most important pieces of your puzzle. 

In your business plan, you need to outline your target market, your marketing strategies, and how you plan on executing those strategies. 

You also need to set aside a budget for your marketing efforts. Many people make the mistake of thinking that they don't need to spend money on marketing, but that couldn't be further from the truth. 

The following daycare business plan example shows you how you should describe your marketing efforts:

"Our target market is working for families with children between six weeks and five years old. We will reach our target market through online and offline marketing efforts. 

Some of the offline marketing strategies we will use include print advertising, flyers, and word-of-mouth referrals. We will use a mix of SEO, content marketing, and social media for online marketing. 

We have set aside a budget of $500 per month for our marketing efforts."

As you can see from the example above, your marketing plan should be clear, concise, and to the point. Don't forget to include a budget!

Daycare Financial Plan

Your business plan should include a financial plan section. This is where you'll lay out how much money you need to start or grow your business. Be specific and include dollar amounts. If you're seeking a loan, including information on how much you're requesting and how you'll use the funds.

You should also include a detailed budget in your business plan. Your budget should include all of your projected income and expenses for at least the first year of operation. Creating a budget will help you get a clear picture of what it will cost to start and operate your business.

This section should include projected costs for:

• Rent or mortgage payments
• Advertising and marketing
• Operating expenses such as utilities, supplies, and more. 

Startup costs are another vital item to include in your business plan. This is the money you need to purchase equipment, furniture, or any other items to get your business up and running.

If you plan to secure a loan, your lender will want to see a detailed business plan with information on how you plan to use the loan funds. Ensure you include this information in your business plan to increase your chances of securing funding.

If you're seeking funding from investors, you'll need to include information on how they will be compensated. This is typically done through equity, a percentage ownership stake in your business. 

For example, if you seek $100,000 in funding and offer a 20% equity stake, the investor will own 20% of your business. 

Make sure you use a daycare business plan template that includes a section on funding to ensure you include all the necessary information. If you’re planning to get a loan or seek investment, you’re going to need full financial projections. Our daycare financial model will provide up to 5 years of projected income statements, cash flow and balance sheet forecasts.

Next I want to answer some key financial questions for you as you consider how to forecast your daycare financials. I am going to hit on:

• Daycare Startup Costs
• Daycare Revenue 
• Daycare Facility Operating Expenses
• Daycare Profitability

Let’s dive into some key questions. 

How much does it cost to start a daycare? 

It costs between $10,000 and $50,000 to start an in-home daycare business according to Bizfluent . 

It costs between $59,000 and $3 million dollars to start a daycare facility according to Bizfluent . 

So obviously this is a huge range in startup costs.  The main thing that will determine your startup costs is your daycare facility.  Depending on how large your daycare is, whether you are buying, building, or leasing the space, and how much renovation needs to be done, your startup costs can vary drastically.  

Some tips to help you estimate a cost of a daycare facility:

• A daycare facility should have 35 square feet of open floor space indoors per child. 
• So if you wanted a facility that could care for 100 children you would need 3,500 square feet of indoor space for children, plus additional space for offices, kitchen, bathrooms, etc.  Let’s assume that you would need at least 5,000 square feet of space for a daycare facility that served 100 children.  
• A daycare center would cost at least $295 per square foot to construct in the U.S. based on data from Levelset . 
• Constructing a new 5,000 square foot daycare center would likely cost at least $1,475,000 based on $295 per square foot.  
• Now you might not be constructing new, rather you might rent an existing facility which could require renovations.  You will need to get a specific quote for the specific renovations that you need for your space. 

How much revenue can a daycare business make?

A daycare facility can generate $17,680 in revenue per year per child according to Zippia .  

A daycare business with 100 children can generate over $1.75 million per year in annual revenue based on our average revenue per child of $17,680. 

How much does daycare cost?

The average cost of daycare is $17,680 per year, per child in the U.S. according to Zippia . 

This means that the average monthly cost of daycare in the U.S. is roughly $1,475.

What is the typical child to staff ratio for a daycare? 

The typical child to staff ratios for a daycare are:

• 1 adult staff for every 4 infants (age 0 to 12 months)
• 1 adult staff for every 6 toddlers (age 1 to 3 years)
• 1 adult staff for every 10 pre schoolers (age 3 to 5 years)
• 1 adult staff for every 12 school aged children (5+ years old)

Source - Childcare.gov

These ratios will help you estimate how many staff members you will need.  Our financial projection template makes this easy.  Just enter in your ratios and the number of children you expect to have in each age group and the model will automatically calculate the number of staff required to maintain your ratios.  See the input daycare staffing table below:

What are the typical operating costs for a daycare? 

Your largest operating expense for a daycare facility is likely to be your rent. 

It should cost between $20 and $30 per square foot to rent a daycare center space based on available spaces on Loopnet . 

Other operating costs for a daycare center include:

You can see how you can enter in your operating costs into our financial model below:

How much profit can a daycare make? 

The average daycare profit margin is 6.5% according to Daycare Business Boss . 

Once you complete your projections you will want to take a look at our At a Glance tab to make sure that your projected profit margins aren’t way out of line with the industry norms.  You can find projected profit margins for your daycare below:

This is an important aspect that you may not find in most daycare business plan templates, but it's still essential. An appendix includes any additional information to help you understand your business plan. This might include things like your:

• Business licenses 
• Insurance policy 
• Lease agreement 
• Sample contracts 
• Staff bios 

This section adds credibility to your daycare business plan and shows that you've done your homework. Including all of the necessary details in your appendix will give investors peace of mind and show that you're serious about starting a daycare center.

An executive summary is a brief overview of your business plan and is often considered the most important section. It should be two pages long, with a clear description of your business, your goals, and why you will achieve them.

There are several key elements to include in your executive summary:

• Business Name: This is the name you have chosen for your business.
• Location: Include the city, state, and country where your business will be located.
• Business description: Describe what type of business you will be operating.
• Target market : This is the group of people you will be targeting as customers.
• Competition: Who are your competitors, and how will you compete with them?
• Product or service : What product or service will you be offering?
• Sales and marketing: How will you generate sales?
• Financials: Include a five-year income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement.
• Management team: Introduce your management team and their experience.
• Exit strategy : This is the plan for how you will eventually sell or otherwise exit the business in case you decide to retire or move on to other projects.

The executive summary is the most crucial section of your business plan because it gives investors and lenders a quick overview of your company and its prospects. Be sure to include all of the key elements listed above, and keep it under two pages in length.

What Are The Benefits of Creating a Daycare Business Plan?

Research shows that a business plan helps business owners make better decisions, turn abstract goals into tangible objectives, and track progress over time. But what does this mean for those who want to open a daycare? 

Creating a business plan forces you to think through every step of starting your company. It's a valuable exercise that can save you time and money in the long run. Even if you don't end up following your business plan to a tee, the process of writing it will help you better understand your business and what needs to be done to make it successful. 

There are many benefits to creating a daycare business plan, including: 

Gives You a Roadmap to Follow

As with any journey, it's always helpful to have a map. A business plan is that map for your daycare business. It will give you a clear idea of where you want to go and how you can get there. 

Helps You Secure Funding

A business plan is essential if you're looking for investors or loans. It will show potential lenders and investors that you've put thought into your business and have a solid strategy for making it successful. 

Ensures Your Daycare Business is Feasible

When you're starting a business, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement and overlook potential problems. A business plan forces you to take a step back and assess whether your business is truly viable. It also helps you identify any areas where additional research is needed. 

Final Thoughts

A daycare business plan is a valuable tool to help you make your business successful. 

It is worth noting that your business plan is not a one-time exercise but should be updated regularly as your business grows and changes. This document is meant to be a living document that evolves as your business does. 

If you're unsure where to start, there are plenty of resources available to help you, including daycare business plan examples online, books, and daycare business plan templates. 

You can also use our daycare projection template to get your financial plan ironed out and ready for your business plan.

The most important thing is just to get started. The sooner you create your business plan, the better prepared you will be for success.

You can get the Daycare Facility financial projection template here!

The template is simple to use and will save you loads of time while still producing professional looking daycare projections. ProjectionHub has helped more than 50,000 businesses create financial projections so you can be confident that you can do it too.

The daycare business projection template includes:

5 Year Daycare Facility Pro Forma Financial Statements

CPA Developed & Completely Customizable

Free Support & Projections Review

Compatible with Google Sheets

Free expert review of your completed projections

The template is easy to use and you do not need to be an excel wizard to fill it out. Editable cells are highlighted in blue, a video guide is included, and our team is available to answer any questions you have.

You can see the complete walkthrough and demonstration of the daycare business forecast template here:

Get the template today for just $79

If you have any questions before purchasing, please feel free to begin a live chat or email us at [email protected]

100% money back guarantee in accordance with our terms and conditions

‍ Photo by Pixabay

About the Author

Adam is the Co-founder of ProjectionHub which helps entrepreneurs create financial projections for potential investors, lenders and internal business planning. Since 2012, over 40,000 entrepreneurs from around the world have used ProjectionHub to help create financial projections.

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How to Write a Business Plan for Daycare and Preschool

• brightwheel
• Running a business

Writing a daycare or preschool business plan is a big task, but due diligence and hard work will help you understand what you’ll need to launch and run a daycare or preschool successfully.

What do daycare investors want?

Your local government will have rules and regulations you’ll need to follow as a small business owner and childcare provider. Start by reviewing the childcare licensing guidelines for your state and city. Once you’re clear on licensing guidelines, you’re ready to start writing your childcare business plan.

The purpose of a business plan is to help secure funding. You’ll likely need financing to launch your preschool or daycare, especially if you want to avoid the monthly repayment of a loan. 

Investors provide businesses with money in exchange for partial ownership. As a result, they expect a larger return on their initial investment. Because many investors work in business, they prefer to invest in an established company.

Most investors look for:

Industry background and experience

Financial performance and promise.

Investors want to make money. Therefore, they are more inclined to work with experienced entrepreneurs and business owners to guarantee a return on their investment. 

This might sound discouraging for those with little experience or without a business management background, but the opportunity doesn’t end there. You could consider bringing on a partner with a business background. Additionally, many investors act as a source of business advice. 

You need to demonstrate that your business will make money. Investors will likely want to see signs of business growth before they give you money. 

Additionally, investors will want to know about your financial stability. Questions an investor might ask are:

• What do you plan to do with the money?
• Has your business been up or down in recent years?
• Is your company losing money? Are there signs of growth for the future?
• How do you plan to repay your investment?

Of course, every investor is different, so they’ll consider various factors. While experience and financial promise are at the top of the list for most investors, they might also look for uniqueness, business readiness, an effective business model, and more.

Writing a daycare business plan

We’ve discussed licensing and investors. Now, you’re ready to begin the framework of your business plan for daycares and preschools. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Business description

Needs assessment, insurance policies, operating policies and procedures, marketing strategy.

Start with the basics: what does your daycare do? Detailing the service you’re offering will help you create a clear business plan. Next, you might want to write some goals or even a mission statement outlining your purpose and motivation.

Start by looking at general daycare or preschool industry trends, then narrow your scope to the preschools or daycares in your local area. Next, you’ll need to figure out who your target customers are and confirm that there is a need for a business like yours in your community. 

Are there a lot of young families in your neighborhood? Are you located somewhere convenient for commuting parents? Does your business offer a specific service that your competitors don’t, like early check-in or extended hours? 

Also, check out the competition. Research the existing daycare or preschool options in your community. Look at current preschool or daycare business plan samples. What makes your daycare or preschool unique? 

Developing detailed budgets will help you run your small business. You’ll need to compare your current cash flow and expenditures to determine whether you’ll make a profit.

Build a budget for unexpected costs. For example, how many children do you need to serve to be able to pay your bills and stay afloat? Child Care Aware of America offers some terrific budgeting resources for this process.

Depending on the type and size of your preschool, you’ll need insurance policies of several different types, including liability, property, workers’ compensation, and business insurance. Check the licensing requirements for guidance in building this part of your preschool business plan.

Create a comprehensive handbook for families and staff that includes you center's policies and procedures. For instance, you'll need to develop an emergency plan , daycare sick policy , and other safety protocols according to your local childcare licensing requirements. 

Your staff handbook will be a helpful resource your employees can reference and include all your employment policies including work and pay schedules, benefits, and information about professional growth and development. You can also include information on your center's philosophy and curriculum, classroom procedures, and expectations for working with children and families.

Your marketing strategy is the key to attracting customers. Decide what type of advertising you will use in front of potential customers. For example, list your school in local directories and participate in parenting and kid-friendly community events. Run a social media campaign focusing on your target population.

Another big part of childcare business marketing is differentiating yourself from other preschools. These days adopting daycare software is a surefire way to attract families with young children. A tool like brightwheel's center management feature will streamline your center's admission process, record keeping, and reporting, saving you up to 20 hours per month. 

You can also use brightwheel for recording and tracking daily events and activities, and sending real-time updates to families throughout the day. It also offers secure, digital check-in/check-out and a paperless billing system. This is a great way to keep your families looped in on daily activities and handle all of your administrative tasks in one place.

Your business is ready!

Writing a business plan can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Once you secure the proper licensing, use the information in this article to guide you through creating a solid daycare business plan that drives investors and financing to your business.

These are just the basics to get you started. For further information, the U.S. Small Business Administration’s website has detailed instructions on creating each necessary part of a successful business plan. 

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Daycare Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Business Plan Outline

• Daycare Business Plan Home
• 1. Executive Summary
• 2. Company Overview
• 3. Industry Analysis
• 4. Customer Analysis
• 5. Competitive Analysis
• 6. Marketing Plan
• 7. Operations Plan
• 8. Management Team
• 9. Financial Plan

Daycare Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to easily complete your daycare business plan.

We have helped over 100,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their daycares.

How To Write a Daycare Business Plan & Example

Below are links to each section of your daycare business plan template:

• Executive Summary – This is a brief overview of your daycare business plan. The executive summary should be no more than 2 pages long, with brief summaries of other sections of the plan.
• Company Overview – This is where you provide a business description, including your company history, business structure, and any pertinent information about the daycare center.
• Industry Analysis – The industry analysis describes the daycare industry, including market size and trends.
• Customer Analysis – This section of your daycare business plan describes your target market and potential customers. You will detail the demographics, needs, and wants of your target audience and how you plan to meet those needs.
• Competitive Analysis – The competition in your local area will be described here, along with how your daycare business will compete in the market.
• Marketing Plan – Your marketing plan will describe your daycare’s marketing strategy, including your advertising and promotion plans.
• Operations Plan – This section of your business plan describes how your daycare will be operated on a day-to-day basis. It may also include your long-term plans for expansion and the milestones you want to achieve to get there.
• Management Team – The management team section of your business plan should describe the experience and qualifications of your management team including the director, teachers, and support staff.
• Financial Plan – The financial plan section of your daycare business plan should include your financial statements, such as your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement.

Next Section: Executive Summary >

Daycare Business Plan FAQs

What is a daycare business plan.

A daycare business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your daycare business. Among other things, a good daycare business plan will outline your business concept, identify your target customers, present research about the child care industry, detail your marketing plan, and provide your financial plan.

You can  easily complete your daycare business plan using our Daycare Business Plan Template here .

What Are the Main Types of Daycare Businesses?

There are different types of daycare businesses that parents can choose from for their child's needs. A traditional daycare center is most sought after by working parents since it provides child care during regular work hours. There are also in-home daycare centers that are licensed to provide child care in a home setting with fewer children. Other child care centers provide hourly care services by trusted babysitters or nannies and are operating on an as-needed basis.

What Are the Main Sources of Revenues and Expenses for a Daycare Business?

The primary source of revenue for a daycare business is its child care services.

Some key expenses for a daycare business is rent, salaries for staff, utilities and snacks expenses for the children.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Day Care Business Plan?

A daycare or child care center is typically funded through small business loans, personal savings, credit card financing and/or angel investors. This is true for a business plan for daycare or a childcare business plan.

What are the Steps To Start a Daycare Business?

Starting a daycare can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Day Care Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed child care business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include market research on the childcare industry and potential target market size, information on the services you will offer, marketing strategy, pricing strategies and detailed financial projections.

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your daycare business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your daycare business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Daycare Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your daycare business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your daycare business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

7. Acquire Necessary Daycare Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your chlidcare business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your childcare   business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising to reach your target audience.

Learn more about how to start a successful daycare business:

• How to Start a Daycare Business

Where Can I Get a Daycare Business Plan Example PDF?

You can download our daycare business plan PDF template here. This is a business plan template you can use in PDF format.

Daycare Business Plan PDF Example

• February 28, 2024
• Business Plan

Creating a comprehensive business plan is crucial for launching and running a successful daycare. This plan serves as your roadmap, detailing your vision, operational strategies, and financial plan. It helps establish your daycare’s identity, navigate the competitive market, and secure funding for growth.

This article not only breaks down the critical components of a daycare business plan, but also provides an example of a business plan to help you craft your own.

Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or new to the service industry, this guide, complete with a business plan example, lays the groundwork for turning your daycare business concept into reality. Let’s dive in!

Our daycare business plan is thoughtfully developed to encompass all crucial aspects required for an in-depth strategic plan. It outlines our facility’s operations, marketing strategies, market dynamics, competitors, management team, and financial projections.

• Executive Summary : Offers an overview of your Daycare’s business concept, including the innovative learning environment, market analysis , management team, and financial strategy.
• Building & Location: Describes the Daycare’s modern, child-friendly design, its central location, and amenities such as indoor and outdoor play areas, sensory rooms, and nap zones.
• Pricing & Educators: Lists the services provided by your daycare, including full-time and part-time care options, the educator-to-child ratio, and pricing structure.
• Key Stats: Shares industry size , growth trends, and relevant statistics for the Daycare market.
• Key Trends: Highlights recent trends affecting the childcare sector, such as the increasing demand for early childhood education programs and technological integration.
• Key Competitors : Analyzes main competitors nearby and how your daycare differs from them, focusing on aspects like curriculum quality and additional services.
• SWOT: Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis tailored to the daycare business.
• Marketing Plan : Strategies for attracting and retaining customers, including branding, local advertising, online presence, and community involvement.
• Timeline : Key milestones and objectives from the initial setup through the first year of operation and beyond.
• Management: Information on who manages the daycare, detailing their roles, experience in early childhood education, and business management.
• Financial Plan: Projects the daycare’s 5-year financial performance, including revenue projections, profit and loss statements, cash flow analysis, and balance sheet, aiming for significant growth and profitability by the target year.

Daycare Business Plan

Fully editable 30+ slides Powerpoint presentation business plan template.

Download an expert-built 30+ slides Powerpoint business plan template

Executive Summary

The Executive Summary serves as the gateway to your daycare business plan, providing a succinct overview of your daycare center and its offerings. It should highlight your market positioning, the variety of child care and educational services you provide, its location, size, and a sketch of daily operations.

This section should also delve into how your daycare will integrate into the local community, including an analysis of the number of direct competitors in the area, identifying who they are, along with your daycare’s distinctive features that set it apart from these competitors.

Moreover, you should incorporate details about the management and co-founding team, outlining their roles and contributions to the daycare’s success.

Additionally, a summary of your financial projections, including revenue and profits over the next five years, should be included here to offer a clear vision of your daycare’s financial strategy.

Make sure to cover here _ Business Overview _ Market Overview _ Management Team _ Financial Plan

Dive deeper into Executive Summary

Business Overview

For a Daycare, the Business Overview section can be effectively divided into 2 main components:

Building & Location

Briefly describe the daycare’s facility, focusing on its safety, child-friendly design, and the stimulating environment that it offers to children.

Mention the daycare’s location, emphasizing its accessibility and the convenience it brings to parents, such as proximity to residential areas or ease of drop-off and pick-up. Explain why this location is beneficial in drawing your target clientele, particularly parents who prioritize convenience and safety in their choice of daycare.

Pricing & Educators

Detail the range of childcare and educational services provided, from basic care for infants to preschool programs and after-school care for older children. Outline your pricing strategy , ensuring it aligns with the quality of care and education provided and is competitive within your market segment.

Highlight any special programs, discounts for siblings, or membership deals that offer additional value to families, fostering long-term relationships and loyalty among your clientele. Discuss the qualifications, experience, and approach of your educators and staff, underlining their role in creating a nurturing and educational environment for the children.

Make sure to cover here _ Building & Location _ Pricing & Educators

Market Overview

Industry size & growth.

In the Market Overview of your daycare business plan, start by examining the size of the childcare industry and its growth potential. This analysis is crucial for understanding the market’s scope and identifying opportunities for expansion, particularly in regions with increasing numbers of working parents or areas underserved by quality daycare facilities.

Key market trends

Proceed to discuss recent market trends , such as the growing demand for early childhood education, the importance of developmental programs, and the preference for daycares that offer flexible hours and holistic child development approaches.

For example, highlight the need for services that cater to different developmental stages and incorporate educational curriculums, alongside the rising popularity of daycares that focus on sustainability and health, such as offering organic meals or eco-friendly play areas.

Key competitors

Then, consider the competitive landscape, which includes a range of daycare options from high-end, education-focused centers to more affordable, home-based care, as well as the increasing availability of alternative childcare solutions like nanny-sharing.

For example, emphasize what makes your daycare distinctive, whether it’s through superior educational programs, exceptional staff qualifications, unique facilities, or flexibility in care options. 

Make sure to cover here _ Industry size & growth _ Key competitors _ Key market trends

Dive deeper into Key competitors

First, conduct a SWOT analysis for the daycare , identifying Strengths (such as a qualified and caring staff, comprehensive educational programs), Weaknesses (like limited space or high operating costs ), Opportunities (for instance, a growing demand for quality early childhood education), and Threats (such as changes in government regulations or competition from new daycares).

Marketing Plan

Next, formulate a marketing strategy that details how to attract and retain families through targeted outreach, referral incentives, a strong online presence, and participation in community events.

Lastly, draft a precise timeline that marks crucial milestones for the daycare’s launch, marketing initiatives, enrollment targets, and growth plans, ensuring the business progresses with clear goals and intent.

Make sure to cover here _ SWOT _ Marketing Plan _ Timeline

Dive deeper into SWOT

Dive deeper into Marketing Plan

The Management section focuses on the daycare business’s management and their direct roles in daily operations and strategic direction. This part is crucial for understanding who is responsible for making key decisions and driving the daycare business toward its financial and operational goals.

For your daycare business plan, list the core team members, their specific responsibilities, and how their expertise supports the business.

Financial Plan

The Financial Plan section is a comprehensive analysis of your financial projections for revenue, expenses, and profitability. It lays out your daycare business’s approach to securing funding, managing cash flow, and achieving breakeven.

This section typically includes detailed forecasts for the first 5 years of operation, highlighting expected revenue, operating costs and capital expenditures.

For your daycare business plan, provide a snapshot of your financial statement (profit and loss, balance sheet, cash flow statement), as well as your key assumptions (e.g. number of customers and prices, expenses, etc.).

Make sure to cover here _ Profit and Loss _ Cash Flow Statement _ Balance Sheet _ Use of Funds

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How to create a daycare business plan (+ template)

• Nirit Braun
• 10 min read

When you're getting ready to launch your daycare business, one of the first things you'll want to do is create a solid business plan . Think of it as your roadmap for success. This document spells out your goals, strategies and financial projections within the childcare industry.

This type of business plan serves as your trusty guidebook, helping you navigate the path to success and providing solutions for any challenges that come your way. Keep reading to learn more about how to create a daycare business plan, the specific elements of a strong business plan and use the template at the end to get started.

Ready to launch your daycare business? Create a business website today with Wix.

How to create a successful daycare business plan with 6 components

Now we’ll walk through the six essential elements for crafting a daycare business plan tailored to your company's unique needs.

Executive summary

Business and domain names

Market analysis and research

Operations plan, marketing and advertising plan, financial plan.

Thinking of developing another type of business? Check out more service business examples .

01. Executive summary

The executive summary is a concise overview of your entire daycare business plan, acting like an elevator pitch . It provides a snapshot of your business concept, key strategies, goals and financial projections. While it appears at the beginning of your plan, it's often written last, after you've fully developed the other sections. A well-written executive summary should capture the reader's attention and convey the essence of your daycare business in a compelling and clear manner.

To write a clear executive summary for a daycare business, incorporate the following details:

Overview : Introduce your daycare business and highlight its unique features. Mention the age groups you'll serve, the educational approach you'll adopt and any specific services or benefits that set your daycare apart.

Demand : Describe the demand for daycare services in your target area. Mention any growth trends in working parents, shifting demographics or changes in government policies that could impact your business.

Operations : Briefly outline your strategies for attracting and retaining customers, managing operations efficiently and achieving growth. Touch on your marketing, staffing, curriculum and safety plans.

Staff : Highlight key members of your management team and their relevant experience in the daycare or education sector.

Financials : Provide a high-level overview of your projected revenue, expenses and profitability. Mention the timeframe you expect to break even and showcase your potential for generating returns for investors. You can also mention the amount of initial investment you're seeking and how you plan to use the funds.

Example executive summary for a daycare business

“ABC Sunshine Daycare is a premium childcare center dedicated to providing a nurturing and educational environment for children aged six months to five years. Our play-based curriculum, experienced educators and commitment to child safety make us the ideal partner for parents seeking top-tier care. With a projected 15% annual growth in working parents in our area, we are poised to tap into a significant market opportunity.

Our key strategies include partnering with local businesses to offer exclusive discounts to their employees, implementing a comprehensive child development curriculum and maintaining a low student-to-teacher ratio for personalized attention. We anticipate achieving profitability within the first 18 months, with a projected revenue of $350,000 by the end of Year 2.

We seek $150,000 in funding to secure a prime location, equip our state-of-the-art facility and launch targeted marketing campaigns. Our leadership team comprises experienced educators and childcare professionals, ensuring the highest quality of care for our young learners.”

02. Business and domain names

Knowing how to name a business is crucial for a daycare center and a key step before you register your business . It will be the foundation of your brand identity, influencing how parents perceive your services and creating trust. When choosing a name, consider its relevance to child care, its uniqueness and its ease of pronunciation and memorability.

Using a business name generator like one from Wix can spark creativity and offer unique suggestions that align with your daycare's values and mission statement . Once you've settled on a name, securing a matching domain name is essential for establishing an online presence. A domain name that reflects your business name makes it easier for potential clients to find you online.

You’ll want to first conduct a domain name search to ensure that the name you want isn't already in use.

Some best practices for choosing a domain name are to keep it short and memorable, which means avoiding complex spellings or special characters. Be sure to make it relevant to your specific services and values. The recommendation is to choose a domain extension (.com, .net, .org) that's familiar and commonly used.

Learn more: What is a domain name

03. Market analysis and research

Strong market analysis is vital for understanding the competitive landscape for this type of business and identifying opportunities where you can thrive. Research the demographics and psychographics of your target audience, their needs, preferences and pain points. Analyze your competitors—both other daycare centers and alternative childcare options—to identify gaps in the market that your business can address.

Incorporate this analysis into your business plan to develop a more robust marketing strategy . Highlight how your daycare's unique value proposition will resonate with parents and differentiate you from the competition. Include plans for pricing, branding, promotions and customer retention strategies to attract and retain families.

04. Operations plan

Your operations plan outlines the practical aspects of running your daycare business. This includes details such as:

Location: Explain the rationale behind your chosen location, considering factors like accessibility, safety and proximity to potential clients.

Premises: Describe the layout and design of your facility, including play areas, classrooms, restrooms and any outdoor spaces.

Equipment: List the equipment and supplies required for daily operations, from educational materials to furniture and safety equipment.

Staffing: Outline your staffing needs, including teachers, assistants and administrative personnel. Detail their qualifications, roles and responsibilities. Develop strategies for hiring and managing daycare staff.

Healthy and safety: Highlight your health and safety protocols, emergency procedures and compliance with relevant regulations.

By including these details in your operations plan, you demonstrate a clear understanding of how your daycare business will function and meet the needs of both children and parents.

05. Marketing and advertising plan

To get started with marketing, you’ll need to develop a suite of brand assets, starting with a company logo. You can use a free logo maker to get a professional design in minutes.

Learn more: How to make a website , how to design a logo

Your marketing and advertising plan outlines the strategies and campaigns you'll employ to promote your daycare business. Consider a mix of both traditional and digital marketing methods, such as social media. Utilize online platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest to share engaging content, showcase your facility and connect with parents. You can also use your social media accounts to collaborate with local businesses, pediatricians and schools to build a referral network and increase visibility.

Use your business website for targeted online ads to reach parents in your area who are actively searching for childcare options. Additionally, you could start a blog on your website that offers parenting tips, educational insights and other valuable content that positions your daycare as an authority in child development.

You can also organize open houses, workshops, or parent-child events to give families a firsthand experience of your daycare's offerings.

06. Financial plan

The financial plan is a critical component of your daycare business plan, outlining your initial funding requirements, revenue projections and profitability timeline. Specify the sources of funding you're seeking—whether through personal investment, loans or investors—and detail how the funds will be allocated.

Provide a breakdown of your startup costs, including cost to start an LLC if relevant, expenses for facility setup, equipment purchase, staffing, marketing and any administrative costs. Present projected revenue based on enrollment estimates, pricing strategies and the competitive landscape.

Create a cash flow forecast that outlines your expected inflows and outflows over a specific timeframe. This projection will help you identify potential financial challenges and plan for adequate cash reserves.

Include a profitability analysis that showcases when you anticipate reaching break-even and becoming profitable. This information is crucial for both potential investors and your own financial planning.

By including a well-structured financial plan, you demonstrate your business' financial viability and your understanding of the financial aspects of running a daycare center.

Template for a daycare business plan

Note that this template is meant to serve as a starting point for your daycare business and you should customize it to reflect your specific business concept and goals.

A brief introduction to the daycare business concept

Market opportunity and growth potential

Key strategies for curriculum, staffing and marketing

Financial projections: revenue, profitability, funding needs

Company and domain name

Name: [Your Daycare Name]

Domain: www.[YourDaycareName].com

Demographics and psychographics of target audience

Competitive landscape analysis

How your daycare addresses market needs

Location details

Facility layout, safety features, outdoor spaces, etc.

Equipment, inventory and setup

Staff roles, qualifications and responsibilities

Health and safety protocols and compliance

Social media strategy

Local partnerships, collaborations with local businesses

Open houses and events

Online advertising plan and ad types

SEO and content marketing strategies

Initial investment requirement

Startup costs including facility setup, equipment, staffing and marketing

Projected revenue based on enrollment estimates and pricing

Cash flow forecast over the first year

Profitability and break-even point analysis

Top benefits of creating a daycare business plan

Starting a daycare business demands careful planning, and a well-structured business plan offers numerous benefits that can significantly contribute to its success:

Helps raise money for your business : Experts estimate that for a home-based daycare serving four to six children, startup costs can exceed $36,000 . A comprehensive business plan is essential when seeking investors or financial support. It showcases your clear vision statement , market research and growth strategies, demonstrating your commitment and knowledge about the daycare industry. Potential investors are more likely to provide funding when they see a thoughtfully crafted plan that outlines potential returns on their investment.

Helps allocate resources : Writing a business plan forces you to conduct thorough research on what resources, supplies and staff are needed to launch and run your daycare center successfully. From facilities and equipment to educational materials and safety protocols, this detailed analysis ensures that you're fully aware of the startup and operational costs, preventing any unexpected surprises down the road.

Provides operational clarity : A well-constructed business plan outlines your daycare center's daily operations, including schedules, curriculum and staffing requirements. This clarity not only helps you understand the practical aspects of starting a business  but also provides a structured approach to managing day-to-day activities effectively.

Highlights market insights : Through the process of writing your business plan, you delve into market research, identifying your target demographic, understanding their needs and analyzing your competitors. According to Zippia, 58% of working parents  depend on childcare centers, which means you have a very large market to work with. This information is invaluable in tailoring your services to stand out in a crowded niche, creating a unique selling proposition that attracts parents and caregivers.

Helps with risk management : Starting a daycare business involves addressing potential challenges and risks. A business plan encourages you to identify these risks upfront and develop contingency plans to mitigate them. This proactive approach increases your preparedness and helps you navigate unexpected obstacles with more confidence.

Creates a profitability timeline : Financial projections included in your business plan offer insights into the revenue and expenses expected in the early stages of your daycare business. This information is crucial for determining when your business will become profitable and ensuring that you have a sustainable financial strategy.

“The biggest challenge was having a business model so to speak—or a blueprint and sticking to that blueprint. Eventually when we found our blueprint, we got ourselves out of trying to sell here, there, and everywhere.” Co-founders, Darby Pritchards  

Learn more: How to start a service business

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Daycare business plan FAQ

How do i conduct a market analysis for my daycare business.

To conduct a market analysis for your daycare business, research your target market demographics, competition and average childcare costs in your area. Identify trends and gaps that your business can fill to inform your pricing strategies and unique selling points.

How do I create a budget for my daycare business?

What permits and licenses do i need to open a daycare business, how can i market my daycare business, how do i outline the organizational structure and staffing plan for my daycare, what are some common challenges in running a daycare and how can i address them in my business plan, related posts.

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How to Start a Daycare Business Plan 

A Step-by-Step Guide for Childcare Planning with Tips to Help Entrepreneurs Start Their Daycare Business

Table of contents

• What Is Daycare and Why Should I Start One?
• Types of Daycare Providers
• Before Starting Your Daycare Business Essential Planning Steps
• Decision Journey Map Definitions

Assess Your Competition

How to start your daycare business.

• The Importance of an Execution Plan
• Execution Plan: Marketing and Sales

Form Your Daycare Business

Get familiar with daycare licensing requirements.

• Choose Your Insurance and Liability 
• How to Gain Enrollment at Your Daycare  
• Invest In Childcare Experience Software to Build Your Daycare with Less Work

Build an Expert-Level Daycare Business Plan: How to Get Started

The childcare industry is full of passionate, hard-working individuals. Entrepreneurs just like you are starting a daycare from the ground up. In this guide, we'll give you guidance and provide templates to build a solid daycare business plan.

What Is a Daycare Business and Why Should I Start One?

According to Forbes , daycare businesses were projected to have some of the fastest employment growth of all industries through 2020. Starting a daycare is a great opportunity for aspiring business owners who have a passion for early childhood education and child development.   

‘Daycare’ is an umbrella term for various childcare options (such as Montessori, head start programs, preschool, and many more) where parents and guardians drop their children off and leave them in your care to...  

• Socialize with other children in their age group  
• Learn basic fundamentals for future academic success  
• Reach important developmental milestones

Is Starting a Daycare Business Worth It?

Starting a childcare business or franchise is profitable, emotionally rewarding, and sustainable – the need for committed childcare entrepreneurs has never been greater.   

As of 2021, there were 856,238 childcare centers in the United States. The growing popularity of childcare centers comes from the demand. Parents will always need a form of care for their kids. Plus, there’s a necessity, especially beyond COVID-19, to socialize children in an environment that fosters development.  

Types of Daycare Providers 

• In-home daycare  
• Relative care  
• Preschool  
• Independently-owned daycare
• Daycare franchises  

The Difference Between Individual Centers and Franchises  

An independently-owned daycare often has an individual owner, a center director, and possibly a few other administrative staff members – along with teachers, cooks, bus drivers, etc. The owner is typically an individual who puts their own money and savings into opening the daycare, so all business rights (name, branding, etc.) belong to them.  

Alternatively, a daycare franchise falls under a corporate brand that has made an agreement with an individual to legally establish a business – using the company’s brand or trademark. In this scenario, the franchisee usually pays an initial fee, as well as ongoing royalties to the corporate franchisor. In return, the franchisee gains the use of a trademark, support from the franchisor, and the right to use the franchisor's system of doing business (including unique business policies and procedures, such as their method for advertising or enrollment). This model can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are passionate about early childhood education but don’t know how to get started on their own.  

For example, Kids R Kids and Kiddie Academy are both successful daycare franchise models in the United States. Each center operates similarly, has the same name (aside from a unique location number or city/county name), and the same branding as all locations fall under the franchisee umbrella.  

Daycare Franchise Terms

• A franchisor is a daycare company that provides its services, brand, and business operations to the individual. This may also be known as a ‘ franchise system ’.  
• A franchisee is an individual owner that is being supported by the company (franchisor). Buying into a daycare franchise makes you the franchisee.  
• The franchise refers to the legal agreement between the company and the franchisee.  
• The franchise disclosure document is the legally binding contract between the company and the individual.  

Proactive Tips Before Starting Your Daycare Business: Essential Planning Steps

1) conduct market research.

When it comes to starting your childcare center, relying on assumptions about your customers and competitors leads to wasted time, money, and effort. In contrast, businesses that conduct regular market research improve customer retention and are 76% more likely to see an increase in revenue.  

Market research is a data collection process that evaluates both consumer behavior, competitor habits, and industry trends to determine the viability of your center and build a foundation for future business operations.  

Prepare for success upfront by conducting thorough market research to understand your competition, improve communication with your target audience, and identify new market opportunities. This research should result in actual data that you can use to drive your business and marketing strategies as you launch your center.  

There are a variety of tools available to help you conduct market research - all from the comfort of your own office. Gone are the days of hiring team members with clipboards to approach consumers face-to-face. Survey Monkey, Attest, and Sprinklr all offer digital market research tools to help guide you through the process of understanding your audience, your competitors, and your industry.  

2) Determine Your Target Market

A market segment is a group of consumers that could potentially enroll at your childcare center. First, identify your daycare target market segments and determine how big each segment is.  

Be careful not to fall into the trap of defining your market as “everyone in your community.” This often leads to a ‘spray and pray’ approach to your marketing and as we know, a message for everyone really speaks to no one. When you generalize your advertising in favor of not isolating a potential consumer, you aren’t able to effectively communicate with your ideal customers – forgetting to recognize how your childcare center can appeal to them and their needs.  

A classic example is a shoe manufacturer. While it would be tempting for a shoe company to say that their target market is anyone who has feet, realistically they need to target a specific segment of the market in order to be successful. If they sell adult athletic shoes, they should be building their message to target athletes or individuals who enjoy staying active and exercising. Likewise, if you offer programs for children aged 6 months to 4 years old, you should prioritize advertising toward young adults in their 20s and 30s.  

A common strategy when identifying target markets is to use the TAM, SAM, and SOM approaches to look at market sizes from a top-down approach as well as a bottom-up approach.

Target Market Terms

This should include everyone you wish to reach.  

Example: Your entire local community.  

SAM: Your Segmented Addressable Market or Served Available Market 

This is a portion of the TAM you will specifically target because they align with your offerings.  

Example: Families with young children.  

SOM: Your Share of the Market 

This is the group of your SAM that you will realistically reach—particularly in the first few years of your center’s opening, as you may expand and grow your service over time.  

Example: Families with young children who make at least $65,000 each year in household income.  

For childcare organizations with multiple brands, schools, or programs - increasing revenue and keeping families happy is vital for growth. Your Millennial parents need a uniform, high-quality experience, regardless of location.

Standardizing business processes has a significant impact on time savings, costs, and most notably quality. In fact, standardization improves quality by   61.9% ,  on average. Create consistent  enrollment processes across all your franchise locations to ensure every family has a great experience and a positive association with your brand – leading to higher conversion success and profitability.   

To achieve consistency, your franchisees’ marketing approach and advertising material must follow all your corporate brand guidelines. Your organization should have a lead management system that supports your childcare franchise staff as they  guide families through   the decision-making journey  while also ensuring each location is delivering a consistent parent experience.  

3) Develop Your Buyer Personas

Before you begin writing your daycare marketing plan, make sure you’ve defined your market and buyer personas. Without a deep understanding of whom you’re speaking to, a daycare marketing plan will have little value.    

Audience personas allow you to dive even deeper into your target market and help you understand more than just who your customer is. These identities inform you how to communicate with your customers in a way that relates to their pain points and needs.  

Building a daycare business plan is no joke! Check out childcare business tips at a glance . 

When you understand your customer’s motivations, you can uniquely address their concerns and questions in your marketing materials - leading to increased tours, enrollments, and revenue.   

Start by listing out the various kinds of programs and classes you’d like to offer at your center.  

Then, determine who the primary decision-maker is and who the primary influencers might be in each scenario.   

Primary decision-maker : typically the individual(s) taking financial responsibility and remitting payment at your center.   

Primary influencers : are  also crucial in the purchasing process as they often have the ability to sway decision-makers.  

For example, imagine you’re promoting availability for Summer camp programs at your center. In this instance, the primary decision-maker might be the parent(s) or guardian(s) whereas the primary influencer would likely be the child who’s deciding what kind of activities they want to do this Summer.  

Audience Overview

List the audiences, personas, or segments that you want your center’s marketing and messaging efforts to reach.  

Select one audience from above and describe it to the best of your knowledge. Go beyond the traditional persona to consider motivations & behavior.  

Identify the key stages in your audience’s enrollment journey from beginning to end, knowing there may be multi-dimensional steps within a stage. Complete the table for each journey at the individual stages from the specific audience’s point of view.  

Decision Journey Map Terms & Definitions

Stage : This refers to each stage of the enrollment journey - awareness, consideration, action, and advocacy.  

Awareness : This is when a family is first learning of your center and your brand. They are researching multiple daycare centers and eventually send an inquiry to tour your facility or learn more.   

Consideration : During this stage, a family is touring your center and may be deciding between you and 1-2 other providers. Tip: Proactively equip your staff with key talking points so they can highlight your unique center features.  

Action : This is when a parent decides to register their child for care, pay fees, and is either placed on your waitlist or decides to enroll.  

Advocacy : After a successful, happy experience, this parent or guardian has become an advocate for your business. They’re telling friends and family about your center. This is vital for your word-of-mouth marketing strategy.  

Emotion : Identify what the persona is feeling at each stage of the customer’s journey. They may be anxious, curious, excited, or satisfied at various points. Put yourself in their shoes.  

Key Actions : What actions would a consumer take at each stage? For example, during the awareness stage, they may see your ad on Facebook, look you up on Google, or visit your website. In the consideration stage, they may call your center to get more information, look at your services online, or read reviews.  

Questions : What questions is the consumer asking in each stage? These are the questions you need to be answering for them in your advertising and marketing efforts.  

Competitive research helps you understand why customers choose your center over other alternative care options. This information provides you with insight into how your competition is marketing their services and over time, this can help you improve your own marketing campaigns and business offerings.  

Look up similar daycare centers in your area, and see what programs they offer, the type of facilities, their capacity, and their curriculum. Then, highlight the features that make your center stand out. Showcase your selling points in all marketing and advertising efforts.  Get started with these key questions...

• Who are my direct competitors and what do they offer?
• Who are my indirect competitors
• What does my competition's pricing look like?
• Do they offer promotional pricing or payment plans?
• What do they do best?
• What do they do poorly?

Download the guide to stay up to date on the latest industry news, trends and best practices for growing and managing your childcare business.

Download Your Guide

1) Build a Daycare Business Plan

A good business plan will guide you through each stage of starting and managing your childcare organization- including how to structure, run, and grow your new business.  

There’s no correct or incorrect way to write your business plan. What’s most important is that you identify your business objectives and use this document as a roadmap for how to achieve these goals.  

A strong business plan can help you recruit business investors, gain funding, or find new partners. Prospective investors want to feel confident they’ll see a return on their investment and your center’s business plan is the perfect tool to assure potentials that working with you — or investing in your business— is a smart and profitable decision.  

Write a Day Care Executive Summary (Daycare Business Plan Outline)

Although this section is the first thing people will read, it’s advised that you write it last, once you know the details of your business inside and out. At this stage, you will be able to articulate your business more clearly and summarize all the information in a succinct, concise manner.  

Ideally, your executive summary will be able to act as a stand-alone document that covers the key highlights of your detailed business plan. In fact, it’s common for investors or loan providers to ask for just the executive summary when they start evaluating your business. If they like what they see in the executive summary, they’ll often follow up with a request for a complete plan, a pitch presentation, and more in-depth daycare business plan financials.  

As your executive summary is such a critical component of your business plan, you’ll want to make sure that it’s as clear and concise as possible. Cover only the essential components of your daycare, ensuring your executive summary is one to two pages maximum. This section is intended to be a quick read that hooks your potential investors’ interest and excites them to learn more.  

The executive summary is a tell-all first paragraph that details...  

• The city and state of your center (you can decide on the exact location later)  
• A potential open date  
• A projected enrollment count (number of full-time enrollments)  
• Programs you plan to offer  
• Ages you hope to serve  
• A quick financial summary (based on grants, funding, and potential revenue from projected enrollments)

This may seem like a lot of information upfront, but it’s simply a high-level overview of your plan.   

Conduct an Opportunity Analysis 

The opportunity section of your business plan includes information about:  

• The problem that you’re solving within your community
• P rograms and classrooms   do you plan to market your center(s) to
• How your daycare facility fits into the existing competitive landscape  

Opportunity Analysis: An Example 

The opportunity analysis portion of your business plan is important for outlining what distinguishes your daycare from your direct and indirect competitors. It details how you can continue to expand and grow your center in the future.  

Use your previous competitive research to determine your daycare business’s competitive advantage and position. Analyze potential strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. 

Problem and Solution

Describe the problem that you are solving for your customers. Childcare centers are need-oriented, meaning your consumers have tangible pain points that you must resolve to be successful.   

So, what is the primary pain point for them? Maybe it’s that busy, working parents need a caring, safe place for their child during the day, or perhaps families are seeking after-school care options for their elementary-aged children, or maybe parents need 24-hour childcare options when they’re traveling or working odd hours.   

Now, assess how they are solving their problems currently and where there’s room for improvement. If there's only one childcare center in your community and it has no open seats, you could be the solution. Or maybe there are lots of existing care providers in your city but they’re expensive or have rigid pickup and drop-off times that working parents have trouble meeting. Or perhaps there aren’t any existing childcare businesses within a reasonable driving distance of where you’d like to place yours.  

Defining the problem you are solving for your customers is by far the most critical element of your business plan and is crucial for your daycare business’ success. If you can’t pinpoint a problem that your potential customers have, then you might not have a viable business concept.  

To ensure that you are solving a real problem, try conducting your own survey with potential customers to get a better understanding of their needs and validate that they have the problem you assume they have. Then, take the next step and pitch your potential solution to their problem.

Do they agree that it’s a good fit or does it seem to fall flat?  See how to come up with a strategic plan for your business.

The Importance of an Execution Plan When Opening a Childcare Business

The execution chapter outlines how you’re actually going to make your childcare center work . You’l l address your marketing and enrollment plans, operations, success metrics, and any key milestones that you expect to achieve.  

Execution Plan: Your Marketing and Sales Strategy

The marketing and sales plan section of your business plan details how you propose to reach your target market segments, how you plan on converting those target markets, what your pricing model looks like, and what partnerships you may need to make your center a success.   

Your Positioning Statement

Once you understand your audience, the first part of your marketing and sales plan is your positioning statement. Refer back to your value proposition to create a simple, straightforward sentiment, explaining where your company sits within the competitive landscape and what differentiates your venue from the alternatives that a customer might consider. This statement should be written for an investor or loan provider, rather than for your customer.  

One daycare business plan example - a positioning statement for a 24-hour childcare center in Austin, Texas may look like this:

“For the Austin-based family who is seeking childcare around the clock, Jenny’s 24-Hour Daycare is a safe option for young children with nutritional meals, best-in-industry sleeping arrangements, a clean outdoor play area, and highly trained care professionals. Jenny’s 24-Hour Daycare is the first center of its kind within 30 miles of the Austin metroplex and offers competitive pricing and tuition payment plans.”  

Use this formula to develop a positioning statement for your center: 

Your Mission Statement

Your mission statement is a scaled-down version of your positioning statement. This should be just one or two sentences that are geared toward your target consumer and describe what your business plans to accomplish. This statement usually includes company core values that explain your daycare’s purpose and how you serve your audience.  

For example, Cadence Education is a leading early childhood education provider with the mission of “providing parents with peace of mind by giving children an exceptional education every fun-filled day in a place as nurturing as a home .”  

Pricing 

Your positioning strategy will typically determine how you price your memberships and packages. There are some basic rules that you should follow when deciding on your price point:  

• Cost-plus pricing : For the most part, you should be charging your customers more than it costs you to host them at your center to ensure your venue is profitable and appealing to investors.  
• Market-based pricing : Look at what your competitors are charging and then price based on what your audience is expecting.  

Strategic Alliances

As part of your marketing plan, you may wish to collaborate with other organizations such as local camps, after-school programs, pediatricians, or even other childcare centers that don’t offer the same activities that you do.   

This partnership should benefit both of you – it may help provide access to a target market segment for your venue while allowing your partner to offer a helpful recommendation to their customers. If you’ve already established an alliance, it’s important to detail that in your business plan.  

The operations section is all about how your business works. This portion details the essential logistics such as staffing and sourcing and fulfillment. But remember, your goal is to keep your business plan as short as possible, so too much detail here could easily make your plan much too long.  

Milestones and Metrics

It’s critical that you take the time to look forward and schedule the next critical steps for your business. Investors will want to see that you understand what needs to happen to make your plans a reality and that you are working on a realistic schedule.

Then, determine how you will measure the success of each milestone by listing out the key performance indicators and metrics needed to see progress. These will be the numbers you monitor on a regular basis to evaluate the trajectory of your business. For example, you may look at how many families tour your center each week, how many children you enroll each month, or the amount of revenue you bring in per quarter.  

Company and Management Summary

The structure of your staff and teams sets your daycare up for success. In a new daycare center, there’s typically an owner (or franchisee), a center director, staff members, an enrollment or marketing team, accounting/administration, teachers, assistants, cooks, bus drivers, and janitorial staff. For example, the average small daycare business plan includes 8-10 fully licensed and/or certified early education teachers.

Financial Forecasts  

A typical financial plan will have monthly sales and revenue forecasts for the first 12 months, and then annual projections for the remaining three to five years. Break your sales forecast down into several rows, focusing on just high-level buckets at this point.   

Knowing how much your daycare will cost to open ahead of time can save you money, stress, and time. Daycare business plan start-up expenses vary by size, enrollment capacity, and miscellaneous needs.

Keep in mind that you can save on staffing costs and cut down on overhead with technology that helps to streamline your center’s operations. After all, 40% of Millennials prefer self-service over human contact when interacting with businesses.   

It’s essential that you find ways to enable families to book tours and enroll online without ever having to make a phone call to the center- reducing time spent on necessary-but-manual tasks for both your staff and inquiring families.  

Finally, articulate your profits and losses based on the data from your sales forecast and your personnel plan plus a list of all your other ongoing expenses associated with running your childcare center.  

See this Formula for Financial Forecasts

Step 1 : Average cost of tuition per child x your expected enrollments x 12 (annual revenue – assuming each family enrolls their child in one of your summer programs).  

Step 2 : Daycare businesses make around 16% profit from their overall revenue, after daycare expenses. Multiply your number from step 1 by .16 to get your predicted profit.   

Example : Let’s say you plan to charge families an average of $315 per week for childcare. With that, your goal is to enroll 60 students by the time your daycare center opens. Multiply $315 x 60 x 12 (annual revenue). This should come out to $226,800. Lastly, multiply your revenue of $226,800 by .16, which equals a net profit of $36,288 per year.  

Consider Various Funding Sources

Depending on your situation, there’s both loan and grant funding in childcare. Between state tax credits, loans, and grants – there are financing options for a variety of situations.  

Review Your Tax Deduction Options

Collecting tax credits is one way to receive an annual deduction on daycare costs. Based on your state, you can claim tax credits for...  

Collect Daycare Grants for Your Business

Often, startup costs for opening a daycare are high. Certain states and counties offer grants for new daycare businesses. There are several grant options, depending on your child and family details.   

For example, there’s a Preschool Development Grant Program and a Head Start/Early Head Start grant to provide funding that expands early childhood centers and developmental programs.   

Know Which Loans Are Available to Daycare Business Owners

While grants are a wonderful option for freshly opened daycare businesses, loans are occasionally easier to come by. They’re offered widely and often have fewer requirements to qualify. Check out a few loan examples for your daycare center.   

• SBA Loans , otherwise known as Small Business Administration loans, have exceptional rates, low interest, and flexible repayment options.  
• SBA 7(a) Loans are beneficial for covering pricier equipment funds and real estate. Loans of up to $5 million are available to daycares.  
• SBA 504 Loans – these are wonderful for business expansions and involve a loan for 50% of the project cost.  

Both Limited Liability Companies and Incorporations offer the significant legal advantage of helping to protect assets from creditors and provide an extra layer of protection against legal liability.  

The main difference between an LLC and a corporation is that an LLC is owned by one or more individuals, and a corporation is owned by its shareholders. In general, the creation and management of an LLC are considered simpler and more flexible than that of a corporation.  

Find the Right Vendors

Choosing the right suppliers for your business is essential. If your vendors aren’t reliable or don’t deliver quality products, your new center will struggle to attract families. As a childcare provider, you will likely need the following vendors at one point or another:  

• Electrician 
• Plumber  
• Food and Beverage Supplier 
• Educational Materials Supplier  
• Substitute Staffing Provider 
• Accountant  
• Childcare Licensing Consultant 
• Cleaning & Maintenance  
• Childcare Management System (CMS) 
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software  
• Digital Payments Provider 
• Online Forms Software  
• Childcare Experience Software  

All states have different daycare licensing requirements. Generally, you'll follow the steps below.

1) Take a Course

Attend and complete a pre-application course (you’ll receive a certificate at the end – remember to save it).  

2) Submit Your Application

Submit your online licensing application. It'll ask for details about your business that were outlined in the executive summary.

3) Pay Fees

Pay your application fees. The fee depends on your center's capacity or the number of children you plan to enroll.

4) Complete Inspections

An inspection of your business property must be conducted.

5) Submit Your Service Payment

Register and pay for the inspection.

6) Conduct Background Checks

Submit background checks (this may also be an additional charge).

For More Information on How to Operate In Licensing Excellence, Listen to the Podcast Below

Choose Your Insurance and Liability

• Provide general liability – stay covered if your center has any property damage or injuries to third parties (children).  
• Abuse coverage protects your childcare business or franchise. If employees turn out to be abusive towards children, this policy covers defense costs and defends you against financial losses.  
• Professional liability insurance provides coverage for your business and workers if there is a neglect claim.  
• Hired and non-owned auto liability ensures everyone is covered if there is a pick-up/drop-off vehicle accident.  

*Liability requirements may vary by state.

How to Grow Enrollment at Your Daycare

From a business owner's perspective, the next step after successfully starting your daycare is to grow your center and gain enrollments.   

Begin by building a strong company culture, actively marketing your daycare center, and finding the right childcare technology to optimize your enrollment process and save time.  

See how to elevate your business plan for daycare with better waitlist management.

Create a Culture Where Staff Want to Work

A daycare center that stands out from the rest has happy staff members that want to work hard. Create a diverse employee culture that feels comfortable openly talking about situations. Provide support, patience, and room for growth. See more tips for creating a healthy and positive culture for your daycare staff .  

Market Your Center

A daycare marketing strategy starts with an achievable goal. Do you want to fill your enrollment spots? Do you want to build a waitlist? Should you focus on scheduling more tours or gaining new leads ?   

Choose a goal with measurable results. That way, you can track and analyze your marketing performance. Marketing helps families realize you're the best childcare center on the block. Promote your centers through...

• Social media (especially Facebook – 83% of Millennials have a Facebook account).  
• Landing pages and contact forms on your website  
• Listing directories  
• Email and text marketing campaigns  
• Referrals  
• Digital advertisements  
• Flyers  
• Word-of-mouth marketing  

Tip: childcare experience software that automates the reports you need helps you to save time and improve your return on investment (ROI).  For example, a  Source of Families report shows you where your leads are coming from to optimize your efforts.

Invest In Childcare Experience Software to Build Your Daycare with Less Work  

LineLeader is revolutionary childcare software that automates lead capture, follow-up, scheduling tours, and reports. Craft  beautiful, personalized marketing campaigns to continually grow your business.  Plus, easily manage your curriculum, attendance, and billing with automated center management

Get more from your marketing while saving franchisees 10 hours every week with LineLeader. Automate everything from lead capture and reporting to center management—all from one place.

Download your Guide

Resources to help you run your childcare business.

How LineLeader Enhances Personalized Marketing for Childcare Enrollment

10 Ways LineLeader Streamlines the Parent and Staff Journey in Childcare...

Adapting Enrollment Strategies Post-Pandemic: What Childcare Centers Need...

Additional resources.

For more information on specific childcare resources regarding marketing tools, campaigns, tips, and best practices - see below.

1. Learn hidden secrets no one tells you about starting a childcare business .

2. See how to operate in childcare licensing excellence to boost enrollment.

3. Beth Fiori of Tiny Treasures provides expert tips. check out ways to improve your business plan for daycare with enhanced waitlist management.

4. Discover tips to maintain the best childcare center on the block.

5. Gain advice for strengthening your daycare staff culture. 

6. Learn the benefits of building a daycare business plan , at a glance. 

LineLeader Video Resources

Child Care Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

  Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 5,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their child care centers. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a child care business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Child Care Business Plan Template here >

What is a Childcare Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your child care business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.  

Why You Need a Business Plan as a Childcare Provider

If you’re looking to start a childcare business or grow your existing one you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your child care in order to improve your chances of success. Your childcare business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your business grows and changes.  

Source of Funding for Child Care Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a child care business are bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable. But they will want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business.

The second most common form of funding for a child care is angel investors. Angel investors are wealthy individuals who will write you a check. They will either take equity in return for their funding, or, like a bank, they will give you a loan.  

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a childcare business.

A childcare business plan should include 10 sections as follows:

Executive Summary

• Company Overview

Industry Analysis

Customer analysis, competitive analysis, marketing plan, operations plan, management team, financial plan.

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of child care facility you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a child care that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of child care businesses.

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the childcare industry. Discuss the type of child care you are operating. Provide key details regarding your direct competition. Give an overview of your target audience. Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will describe your business concept for a child care business that you are currently operating or plan to open.

For example, you might operate one of the following types:

In addition to a business description, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business. Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What is your mission statement?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include sales goals you’ve reached, new program offerings, etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? A Limited Liability Company? A sole proprietor? Explain your business structure here.

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the child care business.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the child care industry educates you. It helps you understand the local market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy particularly if your research identifies market trends. For example, if there was a trend towards child care that includes transportation, it would be helpful to ensure your plan calls for such a service.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section:

• How big is the child care business (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the target market?
• What trends are affecting the child care industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your child care. You can extrapolate such as figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

The customer analysis section must detail the target customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: working parents, young families, baby boomers caring for grandchildren, etc.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Because most child care businesses primarily serve customers living in their same city or town, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your potential customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.  

Finish Your Childcare Business Plan in 1 Day!

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your business plan?

With Growthink’s Ultimate Child Care Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

Your competitive analysis should identify the direct and indirect competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other child care businesses.

Indirect competitors are other childcare options that customers have that aren’t direct competitors. This includes keeping children at home and/or after school programs among others.

With regards to direct competition, you want to detail the other child care businesses with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be child care centers located within the same residential neighborhood or very close to your local area.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What child care services do they offer?
• What times are they open?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your unique value proposition. For example:

• Will you provide superior child care services?
• Will you provide child care services that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a child care business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : in the product section you should reiterate the type of child care that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific services you will be offering. For example, will you over technology or exercise classes to the children?

Price : Document the competitive pricing strategies you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the menu items you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your child care. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your child care located next to a heavily populated office building, or gym, etc. Discuss how your location might provide a steady stream of customers.

Promotions : the final part of your child care marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some marketing efforts you might consider:

• Social media marketing
• Reaching out to local bloggers (particularly “mommy” bloggers) and websites
• Local radio advertising
• Banner ads at local venues

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your child care such as discussions with prospective new customers, procuring supplies, cleaning and sanitizing the facility, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to serve your 100th child, or when you hope to reach $X in sales. It could also be when you expect to hire your 4th employee or launch a new location.

To demonstrate your child care’s ability to succeed as a business, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in the child care business. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in childcare businesses and/or successfully running retail and small businesses.

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your ongoing expenses to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you serve 10 children per day or 50? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : While balance sheets include much information, to simplify them to the key items you need to know about, balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. For instance, if you spend $100,000 on building out your childcare center, that will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $100.000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow forecast will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt. For example, let’s say a company approached you with a massive $100,000 childcare contract, that would cost you $50,000 to fulfill. Well, in most cases, you would have to pay that $50,000 now for employee salaries, etc. But let’s say the company didn’t pay you for 180 days. During that 180 day period, you could run out of money.

In developing your financial projections be sure to include several of the key start-up expenses needed to open a childcare center:

• Center build-out including design fees, construction, etc.
• Cost of fixtures like tables, chairs, couches, etc.
• Cost of equipment used like computers and televisions
• Staffing costs for support staff members
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your childcare center design blueprint or location lease.

Free Business Plan Template for Childcare Providers

You can download our child care business plan PDF .

Childcare Business Plan Summary

Putting together a business plan for your childcare facility will improve your company’s chances of success. The process of developing your plan will help you better understand your target market, your competition, and your customers. You will also gain a marketing plan to better attract families, a business operations plan to focus your efforts, and financial projections that give you goals to strive for and keep your company focused.

Growthink’s Ultimate Child Care Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Child Care Business Plan.

Additional Resources For Starting a Childcare Center

• Opening & Running a Child Care Center
• Marketing Your Child Care Program
• Childcare Licensing and Regulations

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.

Click here to see how our professional business plan writers can create your business plan for you.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

Daycare Business Plan Creation – Includes Template Download

Video - daycare business plan, daycare business plan: executive summary, opening a daycare: location, location, location, employees and responsibilities, market niche, financial info, operational plan, marketing plan, revenue opportunities, purpose of loan, business feasibility, financial projections.

• Download >> Daycare Business Plan [FREE Template]

What if Starting a Daycare was Easier Than You Ever Imagined?

It all starts with creating a good daycare business plan. With the right plan in place, opening a daycare has never been easier!

Our comprehensive guide will walk you through creating a business plan . At the end, be sure to download our free template and hit the ground running!

The actual daycare business plan may look pretty long once you have everything filled out. To make things easier for everyone from the bank to your employees though, you should begin with an executive summary.

An executive summary provides key info, including business address, phone number, and who to contact. It will also outline the business structure, the list of owners, banking info, and the anticipated start date for your daycare.

The summary should also include a snapshot of your business concept, a description of daily business, and a rundown of your employees. Finally, it should include who your client base is, what your market niche is, and what factors make your success very likely.

Our guide will take you on a deeper dive into some of these different parts of the summary, and you can always work with an outside child care consultant to get things "just right." But it's important that your executive summary provide all of this key info at a glance.

One of the biggest decisions to make is where you will open a daycare. You must decide whether to run the daycare out of your home or run a  group child care center . Child Care Biz Help works mainly with existing and start-up group child care centers.

Provided that you have enough room, using your home for the daycare business helps to cut down on costs, but keep in mind home daycares limit the number of children that you can care for, which ultimately restricts the amount of revenue you can earn.

When choosing a group child care center, you have several options:

• New building
• Existing center

Whichever options you choose, make sure you know how much everything will cost. This is vital info for your business plan, especially when you get financing.

The business plan should include as much info about your employees as you have. It's true that you may not know everything about everyone you plan to hire, but any info that you already have should go in the plan.

For example, the plan should include the overall number of employees you plan to have. Furthermore, it should outline the exact responsibilities that each person has so that it's clear who the owners are, who the director and teachers are, and who the other support staff is.

Regarding your management team, the business plan should include their relevant background and experiences. And you can use this section to outline some of the ways that you might screen applicants (such as criminal background checks, letters of reference, and personal interviews).

Again, you may make personnel changes over time. But the stronger your first set of employees is, the easier it will be to get this business off the ground!

Let's face it: there are plenty of daycares out there. And all of the daycares in your area are now your competition. That's why your business plan should include info about your specific market niche.

Will you specialize in attending to the needs of a particular set of children? Or will your teachers embrace a specific teaching style such as the  Montessori Method ?

There is plenty of room to get creative here. After all, chances are you want to open a daycare because you can do it better than other people. This is simply the section to explain why your business will be the best!

Finances play multiple roles in your plan. But the first area occurs right after your executive summary. This is where you lay out all of the relevant financial details in one place.

The info should include how much your daycare equipment will cost, how much your furnishings will cost, and how much transportation will cost. You will also need to provide info about how much operating capital you currently have and how much your intended renovations are going to cost.

Make sure this section is accurate so that you can get all of the money that your business will need!

The daycare business plan should include an operational plan section. This is where you go on to outline specific individuals as well as their titles, responsibilities, qualifications, and payscale. Keep in mind the center director position is one of the most important positions to hire for.

This is also a good section to outline the value of your project. Here, you provide an itemized list of different things (like the plumbing, drywall, and electrical) and how much they cost. Do the same thing with any machinery, equipment and furniture. Don't forget to include any  playground costs  which can be very significant when you're a new start-up.

Finally, this section should include a description of your business operations. Be sure to include the "little things" (like creating daily schedules and installing equipment) as well as the "big things" (teaching children of a certain age range, following health and safety guidelines, etc.).

It's one thing to have a great business and it's another thing for people to  know  you have a great business. That's why every good business plan should include a marketing plan.

In this section, you should be specific about who your primary target audience is and what communities they live in. Provide very specific demographic data before you pivot into the marketing strategy.

That strategy should include any combination of traditional and digital marketing methods. This might range from newspaper and radio advertisements to social media and SEO campaigns.

Over time, you will discover which marketing methods are better than others. But this section should include every marketing method that you plan to try.

Most people plan to start a daycare because they want to give back to the community in some way. With that in mind, the purpose of any business is to generate profit. And your business plan must include info about the different revenue opportunities of your business.

The most basic form of revenue will come from the weekly or monthly enrollment fees for taking care of children. You can simply calculate the anticipated number of children (and their age ranges) with your rate in order to calculate an approximate monthly revenue.

In addition to that, you might consider adding enrichment programs and registration fees as revenue opportunities. It's all a matter of finding a balance between a quality program and a program parents can easily afford.

The business plan should include a section for the purpose of your loan. In this section, you will identify, down to the dollar, what your intended loan needs to cover.

This should be an itemized section so that the lender knows how much is going towards renovations, furniture, equipment. And you should use this section to reiterate what your current operating capital is.

When the smoke clears, we should have a clear idea of the project cost, your equity and contributions, and what the total financing required will be. Without this info in place, it's impossible to get your business off the ground.

What is a lender's primary consideration when a business needs money? Simple: they want to know the business will succeed. That's why your business feasibility section is so important.

At the bare minimum, this section should include research data about which factors will make your daycare in this area successful. If you have any feasibility studies or other intensive research you can cite, this is the section for it.

Ideally, this section should also include a  full-blown SWOT analysis . This shows lenders and investors that you have a keen understanding of what your business does well and what it might need to work on.

Finally, this section should include your long-term plans. Outlining how you plan to grow and adapt your business helps reassure lenders and investors that you are prepared for the future.

The final section is straightforward and to the point. This is where you attach the financial projections you have completed for your business.

We recommend including cash flow projections for the first twelve months and cash flow projections for the first three years. On top of that, you should include three years of projected income statements and balance sheets.

Obviously, much can change in the space of three years. But healthy financial projections for the next few years are a great way to win skeptical audiences over.

Download >> Daycare Business Plan [FREE Template]

Now you know how to create a daycare business plan . But do you know who can make it nice and easy?

All you need to do is complete the form below to download your free plan template. And for more tips about opening a daycare or if you're interested in hiring us to help, contact us today!

Q: What should be considered when developing budgets for a daycare or preschool?

A: When developing budgets for a daycare or preschool, it is important to consider several factors to ensure the smooth running of your business. One essential aspect is analyzing your current cash flow and expenditures, which allows you to determine whether your operations will result in a profit. Additionally, it is crucial to build a budget that takes into account unexpected costs that may arise, such as repairs or equipment replacements.

Apart from regular expenses, it is important to consider specific factors related to the nature of your business, such as the number of children you need to serve in order to cover your bills and maintain financial stability. This analysis will help you understand the enrollment capacity required to generate sufficient revenue.

To assist you in the budgeting process for daycare or preschool, there are valuable resources available. Organizations such as Child Care Aware of America offer excellent budgeting resources designed specifically for this industry. By utilizing these resources, you can further enhance your budget development, ensuring that you are considering all relevant financial aspects required for your child care business.

Q: What should be included in the business description section of a daycare business plan?

A: In the business description section of a daycare business plan, it is essential to provide a thorough overview of what your daycare offers. Start by clearly defining the scope and nature of your childcare services. Describe the types of programs or activities you will provide, such as full-time daycare, part-time care, after-school care, or specialized programs like early education or infant care.

In addition to detailing the services you offer, it is crucial to articulate your daycare's goals and mission statement. This will help demonstrate your purpose, motivation, and values as a business. Your mission statement should clearly state what you aim to achieve and the unique qualities that set your daycare apart.

Furthermore, consider including information about your target market. Briefly describe the demographics and characteristics of the families or children you aim to serve, such as the age range, specific needs (if applicable), or any particular geographical focus.

Moreover, it is beneficial to outline any competitive advantages or unique selling points your daycare possesses. This could include factors like a low staff-to-child ratio, highly qualified and experienced caregivers, a stimulating educational curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, or any other exceptional features that make your daycare stand out from others in the market.

Lastly, if your daycare has any special affiliations, accreditations, or licenses, mention them in this section. These credentials may include being licensed by regulatory authorities, certified by recognized early childhood organizations, or complying with specific state or local regulations. By including these key elements in the business description section, you will provide a comprehensive overview of your daycare business that showcases its offerings, goals, target market, unique qualities, and regulatory compliance.

Q: What are the key factors investors look for in a business plan?

A: When evaluating a business plan, investors typically consider several key factors to gauge its viability and potential for success:

• Industry expertise and experience: Investors are more likely to partner with entrepreneurs and business owners who have a strong background and demonstrated experience in the relevant industry. If you lack specific experience or expertise, it may be advantageous to bring on a partner who can provide the necessary knowledge.
• Financial performance and projections: Investors seek evidence of solid financial performance and stability, as well as a well-defined plan for future growth and profitability. They may inquire about your financial track record, including revenue growth, profitability, and cash flow management. Additionally, they are interested in understanding how the investment will be utilized and how it will be repaid.
• Uniqueness and competitive advantage: Investors look for businesses that offer something unique and have a clear competitive advantage over others in the market. This could be innovative products or services, proprietary technology, strong brand positioning, or a robust intellectual property portfolio.
• Market opportunity and readiness: Investors assess the attractiveness and potential size of the target market. They want to see a solid understanding of market trends, customer demographics, and competitive landscape. Additionally, investors value businesses that are well-prepared, with a well-defined go-to-market strategy, feasible timelines, and a robust sales and marketing plan.
• Scalability and growth potential: Investors are attracted to businesses that have the potential for significant growth and scalability. They will assess if the business model and infrastructure are capable of expanding rapidly without losing efficiency or compromising the quality of products or services.
• Effective business model and execution strategy: Investors want to understand how the business generates revenue and how it plans to sustain profitability in the long term. They value a clear and well-thought-out business model that demonstrates a deep understanding of customer needs, efficient operations, strategic partnerships, and effective distribution channels. Furthermore, investors assess the management team's ability to execute the business plan successfully.
• Risk assessment and mitigation: Investors are aware of the inherent risks associated with any business venture. They will evaluate your risk assessment and mitigation strategies, looking for a well-balanced approach. Demonstrating a thorough understanding of potential risks and outlining strategic measures to minimize them will increase investor confidence.

While these factors are crucial to investors, it is essential to recognize that individual investors may prioritize certain elements differently based on their investment objectives and preferences. Therefore, presenting a comprehensive and well-balanced approach to these key factors in your business plan will increase your chances of attracting investor interest and capital.

Q: What types of insurance policies are needed for a preschool business?

A: Insuring a preschool business requires various types of insurance policies to ensure comprehensive coverage. Fundamental insurance policies needed for a preschool business include liability insurance, property insurance, workers' compensation insurance, and business insurance. These policies play crucial roles in protecting the preschool, its staff, and its physical assets from potential risks and unforeseen events. It is essential to refer to licensing requirements and regulations to determine and tailor the insurance coverage according to the specific needs of the preschool business.

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Hi there, we are in process to start a day care center we need your help

How exciting! I’ll send you an email and we can talk about your project in more detail.

Hello, Im in the process of opening up a daycare and would like some assistance with my business plan

That is great! Let us know if we can help in any way. Email us at [email protected] .

Hi where can I download the daycare business plan template?

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Hi! I am unable to open the business plan template. I subscribed and that link didn’t work either. Please advise. Thank you!

I see you were able to open the document. Please reach out if you have questions.

I filled the form out and when submitted, it took me to another page. I cannot see where the download is for the free template. Help.

Link gets emailed to you, check your email, spam too.

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How to Start a Day Care: A Step-by-Step Guide

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If you’re a teacher, former teacher, or simply have years of experience caring for children — and an entrepreneurial streak — you might have considered starting your own day care center, either from home or in a dedicated facility. And at an expected job growth of 7% over the next decade, working in child care is a stable career choice. So, if you’re seriously wondering how to start a day care center, you’ve come to the right place.

As is the case starting a business in any industry, however, your passion for your craft alone — or, in this case, your students — isn’t quite enough to ensure that your day care business is copacetic, either financially or legally. You’ll need to do a good amount of due diligence when looking into how to start a day care business, paying special attention to licensing requirements, and ensuring that your facility and program aligns with your state’s health and safety codes.

If you’re a pro at educating, training, supporting and generally corralling large groups of small children, you should be pretty unperturbed by the work it takes to start a day care business. Here’s what you need to know.

How to start a day care business

Although every path toward starting a business looks different for every business owner, there are a few steps that every aspiring day care owner needs to think about when it comes to how to best start a day care.

1. Decide what kind of day care business you want to start

Before you can even get to writing a business plan for your day care business, you need to decide what kind you want to open. Look into whether you want to start a day care business at home, or whether you want a more commercial facility — there might be different permits required in your municipality depending on which you choose. You also need to decide what age groups you want to focus on.

Next up, you'll have to decide on a business entity, which will have huge effects on the way you're taxed and how you operate your day care business. Will you have partners or open your business on your own? Additionally, you'll want to consider whether you want a business entity that offers you some protection. Making your day care center a limited liability company might be a good move, since the business will take on liability should anything go wrong.

You might also decide to buy into a day care franchise opportunity. This option will significantly streamline the steps you need to take in opening your day care.

Once you narrow down these details about your business, you can move on to the next step in starting a day care business: writing a business plan.

How much do you need?

with Fundera by NerdWallet

We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

2. Write a day care business plan

This is a step you have to take when starting any business and it can be quite a bit of work, especially for anyone looking to get moving quickly on their business. When you start writing a business plan, start with an outline of all the things you want to include.

Your plan should include a summary, an overview of the company, a market analysis that includes an assessment of the need for a business like yours, a marketing and sales plan, and a financial plan along with financial projections. Don't worry, though, you can always add to it as your business grows.

One thing you should include, though, is market research. The last thing you want to do is go through all of these "how to start a day care business" steps, only to find that there isn't a market for one or that there are already too many day cares in that area to make it a viable business.

Your business plan should also include a budget. The costs associated with opening and running your day care center can never be accurately totaled, but nailing down a budget will give you some parameters to work within (and some peace of mind).

In your budget plan, don’t forget to factor in:

Your startup costs, including day care equipment, food, toys and educational tools, wages, insurance and licensing.

How much tuition you’ll charge.

Your predicted revenue over the next two to three years.

When you’ll break even.

Also know that day care centers can claim certain tax deductions, which can ease your annual financial burden.

You'll also want to include a marketing plan. If you’re seriously researching how to start a day care business, it’s likely that you’ve already been caring for children in your area for some time and have built up a network of local parents. That’s one valuable method of attracting customers (aka word of mouth) covered. Still, implementing even a basic marketing plan can help define and legitimize your business — and if you need to implement a waitlist as a result, that’s great too!

Your marketing efforts can be relatively simple and low-cost. You can start by creating a Facebook page for your day care center and building a business website, making sure to include your contact information and a little bit about your business. If possible, plan to include pictures of your facilities and testimonials from happy customers.

If you’re a fan of social media, it also can’t hurt to create an Instagram, LinkedIn and/or Twitter account to keep both current and prospective customers updated on your business. Just be sure that once you do, you receive permission from parents or guardians before posting pictures of their children, of course.

Analog marketing techniques would work well here, too. If possible, consider distributing flyers or brochures to nearby libraries, schools, places of worship or any other local gathering spots.

3. Obtain the necessary certification and licenses

You may not need a master’s degree in education to become a day care teacher, but each state does require some combination of licensing and certification when it comes to how to start a day care. Visit your state’s Division of Child Care Services (or its equivalent) to find out the training, experience and credentials you need to legally operate a day care facility.

In New York State, for instance, the head of the day care facility must have one of the following:

An associate degree in early childhood education or an equivalent.

A CDA credential (child development associate) and at least two years of experience caring for children.

A high school diploma and at least three years’ experience caring for children.

You'll probably find that there are some other requirements that usually come up when you're looking up how to start a day care business at home or in another facility. Your state may require that you and any staff you hire are CPR-certified, for one. Another point of safety to remember is that you should be trained in at least basic first aid for children. You and your staff might also need to be fingerprinted and undergo background checks before being cleared for work.

Even if your state doesn’t require that you obtain a license, you should consider doing so, as your licensing course will go over all the boxes you need to check to operate your day care in your state — including health and safety regulations, proper food preparation and the required child-to-adult ratio.

4. Find a (safe) day care facility

In certain states, in order to obtain the proper licenses or registration to start your day care business, you’ll first need to show that your day care facility meets your state’s health and safety requirements.

So whether you choose to open your day care facility in your own home, or buy or lease a new property, you’ll need to make sure your facility meets zoning, fire, and health and safety laws. When it comes to how to start a day care at home, you may need to make alterations to your house to comply with day care requirements in your state, so be sure to factor them into your budget.

5. Get insured

Another requirement for obtaining your license? Getting insured. In certain states, you’ll need to be licensed by the Department of Health and Human Services to run your day care center, but to do so, you’ll first need liability insurance.

The exception is home-based day care centers, which don’t need insurance to be licensed by the DHHS. Still, those opening day care centers at home should seriously consider obtaining small business insurance. You always run the risk of a lawsuit when you’re running your own business, but that risk increases when caring for other people’s children — so protect yourself whenever possible.

There are several types of insurance that cover day care businesses — general liability insurance, workers’ compensation, property insurance, abuse and molestation insurance and others — so contact an insurance broker to help you decide which coverage is best for your business.

6. Get a business checking account and credit card

Get a business credit card and a business checking account early on to help you keep your business expenses separate from your personal expenses when first starting a day care.

It’s crucial to separate your personal and business expenses for many reasons, not the least of which is to reduce your (or your accountant’s) burden come tax season. It’s simply the most professional way to conduct your business, too. Set yourself up for success now by signing up for a business credit card and opening a business bank account, and be diligent about using both solely for your day care’s finances.

Having a business credit card can help you increase your business credit score, too. By paying the card off on time — or early if you can — you can boost your score, which will help you late on when you need a loan or other financing for your day care business.

7. Get financing

Most entrepreneurs bootstrap their businesses at the beginning, as it’s difficult for brand-new businesses with limited credit history to secure a business loan, either from a bank or from an alternative lender.

Your financing options aren’t limited to your own purse strings (or your friends’ and family’s). Here are a few other ways to get funding and loans for a child care business:

SBA microloan

Although most SBA loans are available only to businesses with a few years of experience under their belts, SBA microloans are actually designed to help startups get off the ground. They’re especially accessible to women, veterans, minorities and business owners in low-income areas. And unlike most other SBA loan programs, SBA microloans are disbursed by nonprofit lenders, rather than banks.

As the name suggests, SBA microloans tend to be on the smaller side, with amounts capped at $50,000, but they may be as low as $500. (For more context, the average microloan amount was $14,000 in 2017.) And because microloans are designed for new businesses, business owners with average or even challenged credit may still be accepted, as long as other aspects of their SBA loan applications are in good shape.

SBA community advantage

These loans from the SBA have all of the advantages that come with SBA microloans but the community advantage loans are specifically for businesses that are serving traditionally underserved communities. These loans are generally for a higher dollar amount than the microloans and can go a bit further for your business.

Government grants

You might be able to obtain financial assistance to start and run your day care through state or federal funding programs for early childhood education providers. For instance, you can contact your state’s Child Care and Development Fund Plan to look into startup funds, or your state’s school meal contacts to seek funding for your day care center’s meals.

Take a look at the Administration for Children and Families Office of Child Care’s list for a more comprehensive overview of federal and state financing programs for child care centers .

Business credit card

It’s important to use a business credit card to keep your day care’s expenses separate from your own. Of course, using a credit card is also the most convenient way to pay for your daily expenses. And since credit limits for business credit cards tend to exceed those of consumer cards, you can spend more liberally without worrying about maxing out your card.

Another bonus? Using your business card responsibly (by which we mostly mean paying off your balance in full and on time, every month) can help you build business credit. And with a healthy business credit score, you’re in a better position to secure business loans with great terms down the line.

If you opt for a card with a long 0% intro APR period, you can essentially use that introductory grace period as an interest-free loan. Look into the American Express Blue Business Plus card, which, at 12 months, carries one of the longest interest-free introductory periods in a business credit card right now.

After your 12 interest-free months are up, though, a variable APR kicks in at a rate depending on your creditworthiness and the market. Check the issuer's terms and conditions for the latest APR information.

8. Hire staff

You may be planning on running your day care facility solo, but depending on your state and the number of children you’re looking after, that might not be an option — every state sets a required ratio of staff to children to ensure that every child receives adequate care. They also dictate the maximum number of children permitted in a group.

Adult-to-child ratios and class sizes depend on the age of the children, but they might also depend on the size of the day care facility, or face further restrictions based on municipality. For a day care center in New York state, for example, the state requires one adult for six children under school age. However, in New York City, there must be two teachers or one teacher and one assistant to every six children aged 2 to 3, with a maximum of 12 students allowed in a single group. Your own children may or may not be included in that count, too.

So, while hiring really depends upon your state’s requirements, it makes sense to leave room for hiring staff in your business budget. That way, you’ll be prepared for growth, without worrying about your operation shutting down because you’re not properly prepared for it. (Just keep in mind that any staff you hire needs to be appropriately licensed or trained for it, and potentially undergo a background check.)

LLC Formation

9. Write your day care contract and policies

To further legally protect your business, it’s crucial that you draw up a contract, write out your day care policies, and require that potential clients (or, more likely, the parents of potential clients) review and sign both documents before accepting their patronage.

If you're just starting to read up on how to start a day care business, you might not be clear on the distinction between these two documents. To clarify, your contract is the document stating that you’ll provide child care, be compensated for providing care according to the payment terms you specify, and have the right to terminate providing care.

Your policies, on the other hand, provide parents with important logistical information regarding how you’ll run your day care center. There, you can outline protocol regarding vacation, illness, inclement weather, drop-off and pickup times, curriculum, field trips, and anything else you believe is important for your clients to understand and agree to about your day care center.

On a similar note...

• Sample Business Plans
• Education & Training

Daycare Business Plan

With the majority of parents staying out of the home throughout the day, the daycare (childcare) business has turned into an extremely bankable one in recent years.

If you have the right resources and more importantly, are good with children. If you have ever dreamt of starting a daycare business , then you are at the right place!

Though certain sections are common to all business plans, you’ll need to customize the outline as per the needs and requirements of your business.

Industry Overview

The U.S. childcare market size was valued at USD 54.3 billion in 2019 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9% from 2020 to 2027.

This rise in demand has come from the increasing number of working parents. Earlier parents had to quit their careers to take care of their children, but that has changed due to better daycare facilities.

Now, if you plan on entering this competitive childcare market, you must know that the daycare business is based on the foundation of trust more than anything. Hence, providing quality services and having a clean image in the market is of utmost importance.

Studies show that a lot of daycare businesses fail in their first three years due to reasons ranging from poor management to lagging finances. You can combat all of these and many more troubles if you enter the industry with a well-rounded daycare business plan.

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What is a Daycare Business Plan?

A daycare business plan is an equivalent of a roadmap in your business journey. A plan helps you understand what you’re getting yourself into.

It helps you understand the market, figure out where you stand in it, know your target audience better, and formulate better marketing and financial strategies.

Overall, it makes your decision-making process faster and more effective and prevents you from feeling clueless at any point in your business journey.

Moreover, it also helps you get investors and helps your employees and partners understand what your business stands for. It gives the people in your business a feeling that you have a vision and know what you are doing with your business.

Also, you get to set clear goals that give you a direction to work and put your efforts in.

Why is a Daycare Business Plan Important?

Everything you do for your business should add value to it. And here’s how a daycare business plan can add value to your business:

It gives you a sense of direction

There are several ways you can go with each business decision. A business plan helps you understand what would work best for your business then.

Also, it gives a set of tangible goals to look forward to when you work on your business.

It helps you understand your target audience better

Planning your business gives a better form and structure to your research. Which at the end of the day helps you understand your customers better. It also helps you analyze what it means for your business.

Making and upgrading your product or service for your customers serves the biggest purpose at the end of the day.

It helps you understand your competition better

Imagine there’s a popular daycare center in your city and several parents swear by it. Now, this could mean several things for your business.

You’ll have to pick a different location, know the daycare service’s weaknesses and offer better services by working on that area for your business.

You can also pick the things they are doing right, and inculcate the same in your strategies.

A business plan can help you do all of the above and more through a competitive analysis.

It helps you convince your investors

Though making the right prediction is difficult, having a rough idea of your business’s sales and financial potential is important to get investors on board.

Investors want to know the scalability of your business before they invest in it. A good and realistic prediction of returns makes it easier to convince investors.

And a business plan can help you make realistic financial predictions.

It keeps you updated with the latest business trends

A business plan is a living document that grows alongside your business. It also helps you have a foresight of changing trends and act on time for getting the best results for your business.

This also makes it important for you to keep updating your plan as your business grows.

What does a Daycare Business Plan Look Like?

If you are planning to start a new auto or car repair shop, the first thing you will need is a business plan. Use our sample Daycare Business Plan created using Upmetrics business plan software to start writing your business plan in no time.

Before you start writing your business plan for your new auto repairing shop, spend as much time as you can reading through some examples of Children’s & Pet business plans .

Moreover, business plans come in different forms to fit the current state of your business.

Apart from that, there are a few major sections that should be included in every business plan.

Daycare Business Plan Outline

This is the standard business plan outline which will cover all important sections that you should include in your business plan.

• Executive Summary
• Keys to Success
• Company Summary
• Timothy Bernard Kilpatrick
• Start-up Summary
• Locations and Facilities
• Service Description
• Competitive Comparison
• Sales Literature
• Fulfillment
• Future Services
• Industry Analysis
• Market Segmentation
• Market Analysis
• Market Needs
• Market Trends
• Market Growth
• Business Participants
• Competition and Buying Patterns
• Main Competitors
• Strategy and Implementation Summary
• Value Proposition
• Competitive Edge
• Positioning Statement
• Pricing Strategy
• Promotion Strategy
• Marketing Programs
• Sales Forecast
• Sales Programs
• Strategic Alliances
• Web Plan Summary
• Website Marketing Strategy
• Development Requirements
• Management Summary
• Organizational Structure
• Timothy B. Kilpatrick
• Carolyn Steverson
• Candice Harris
• Management Team Gaps
• Personnel Plan
• Projected Profit and Loss
• Projected Cash Flow
• Projected Balance Sheet

What to Include in Your Daycare Business Plan?

A good daycare business plan consists of a certain number of well-defined sections, the following sections can help you in writing an excellent business plan.

1. Executive Summary

The executive summary section is one of the most important sections of your business plan because it not only forms the first section of your business plan but also acts as a pitch for potential investors who can provide you with funds for your daycare business.

It consists of your company’s vision and mission, its USP, objectives, and also expected revenues.

Writing the executive summary section of your plan at the very end, so you can sum up your plan properly is a good tip to remember.

2. Services

In this section, you should give out a clear idea of what your services are and whom it caters to. You should define your target market, your niche, the area your services will be extended to, etc.

As a daycare center, you should have a clear idea of the age group you will cater to, what is the preferred location of your target audience, how you come off as a service to your customers, and so on.

3. Market Analysis

Market analysis can be of great help to any business, it can help you understand what you are getting yourself into, who your competitors are, what your client base expects out of you, and where you stand in the current market situation.

Hence, market analysis immensely improves your understanding of the industry you are getting into. In the case of a daycare center knowing the best practices of childcare that exist in the market can be of great help.

4. Web Plan

In today’s internet-based world, most busy parents looking for a daycare center online. Hence, having a strong and reliable web presence is crucial to the success of your daycare business. Thus, including a web strategy in your business plan is necessary.

Always remember, as a daycare service coming off as a trustworthy and reliable institution is crucial for your business to work.

5. Management and Organizational Structure

Having a well-structured management system is especially crucial for a daycare service. It not only helps your business run smoother, but it also makes you look more responsible and reliable in front of the parents or the primary caregivers.

In this section, you should include the structure of your organization, details about people on various levels in your company, a solid system for tracking everyone’s work and progress, the areas your team is excelling at, and the areas your team is lagging in.

6. Financial Plan

One of the chief reasons for several daycare services running out of business is poorly managed finances or running out of funds to keep going.

Planning your finances in the early stages of your business saves you from encountering such a problem later on.

Hence, planning your finances is mandatory while writing a business plan.

Download a sample daycare business plan

Need help writing your business plan from scratch? Here you go;  download our free daycare business plan pdf  to start.

It’s a modern business plan template specifically designed for your daycare business. Use the example business plan as a guide for writing your own.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

Daycare Business Plan Summary

In conclusion, apart from having a good image as an organization, a well-managed team, a clearly defined niche, thorough research of the market and an excellent financial plan is crucial to the success of a daycare business.

After getting started with Upmetrics , you can copy this sample daycare business plan into your business plan and modify the required information and download your daycare business plan pdf or doc file.

It’s the fastest and easiest way to start writing your business plan.

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Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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Home » Sample Business Plans » Education

How to Write a Daycare Business Plan [Sample Template]

Do you want to start a daycare (childcare)? and need to write a business plan? If YES, here is a sample daycare business plan template & feasibility report. Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a daycare center. We also took it further by analyzing and drafting a sample daycare marketing plan template backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for child care centers.

Why Start a Daycare Business?

It is the duty of every parent- especially the mothers to see to it that their kids are properly taken good care of. However, there are times when circumstances just makes this totally challenging, as there may not be the luxury of time available to them to sit closely with their children and monitor them.

That is one of the reasons why parents would always want to take their kids to a daycare center. The question therefore is: how reliable are day care centers in seeing that the children are totally given the best of care and attention?

Before the daycare businesses came into existence, parents who could afford the luxury of hiring a home nanny whom they thought were vast and experienced in the care of children. However, as things changed and the crime rates in some areas went haywire-where some folks gained entrance into the houses of people for the sole aim of robbing them, the daycare trend took over.

And ever since the emergence of this trade, we have come to see more and more people who have a penchant for kids, dive into the industry just to tap into the profits that the day care business offers.

What Does It Take to Start a Daycare Center Successfully?

More often than not, in some parts of the world we find that some folks begin a day care business after they have been successful with running a school. Conversely, that is not to say that one couldn’t possibly start only a day care business. As a matter of fact, starting first with a day care center, helps to start on a right footing so that you are able to determine whether you will be able to have a school as an addendum business in the near future.

So, if you have scaled the hurdle of being in love with children, then starting your own day care business might be a smart business choice. Having this wish or aspiration as it were on the front burner of your mind, isn’t all that is required. As a matter of fact there are legal necessities that you have got to tidy. As well as draw up a comprehensive business plan that will guide you as you start out and trudge ahead in business.

A Sample Daycare Center Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

Day care business is one of the easy businesses that just about anyone who has a flare for kids could readily start. There is no doubt that as the zeal to make more money heightens with parents, then the need for newer and more seasoned day care centers to arise becomes highly important. That is why investors are beginning to leverage on the high demand for day care services, to establish even better ones.

As such, in all of the states of America, there is hardly one neighborhood that doesn’t have a day care centre. The business is indeed a lucrative one and those who are into the trade of establishing them are smiling to the banks every day. However, that is not to water down the fact that loads of work has to be put in place in order to satisfy parents who use these daycare centers.

Whether you are looking to start a small or big one, truth is that there would always be the need to have kids put in these places. This is why some folks who do not have the wherewithal in terms of finance may choose to start from their homes, whilst some may want to start from very little spaces they get.

Over and above one bright ray of light as it concerns the day care business is that there is always room for expansion, as one learns on the job and then improves the services that one renders.

Setting up a day care business means that one would be dealings with little babies, and as such, care have got to be taken in order to hire not just mere employees, but to hire those who are way too vast in the trade and are capable to help the day care business to a great level. There will always be the need to garner plenty of knowledge that would be useful in giving the children the very best of experience.

The returns on investment that one attracts here is so huge that one have just got to keep at doing those things that would continue to guarantee repeat customers as well as give the kids whom are being cared for a growth experience that they wouldn’t forget in a hurry.

2. Executive Summary

Tiny Thoughts ® is a foremost day care center in Ohio, America. It has the best of aims to prepare its pupils to come out tops in all they do- given that they would be the leaders of tomorrow. We propose to achieve this and more by merging an all exclusive curriculum custom-made explicitly for children.

Our type of curriculum is enriched with extra super child care services. This is nothing like what our competitors have to offer because we offer forward-thinking technology plans, after-school training, and activities that help the kids grow better. Activities such as; arts, dance, crafts, gymnastics, theatre, sports, amongst others.

Tiny Thoughts is a privately held establishment run by its owner, Mrs. Mary McGregor. Mrs. Mc Gregor has 10years of Educational training experience. As a matter of fact   she is a master’s degree holder of child psychology. So that when it comes to child management and psychology, she is always at the top of her game.

Her advanced degree in child psychology and interest in kids is the driving force behind the establishment of Tiny Thoughts . She will be supported in daily operations by another educationist and psychologist, amongst other employees.

With the inflation bane that continues to affect the American economy, there will always be the need for parents to work more than one job per time for additional income. It is for this reason that there will always be a need for excellent child care services.

With the least population of Ohio which is at 11.59 million people, there will always be the need to have capable day cares to cater for them. That is why we have decided to position our establishment so as to meet the teeming needs of parents who want the very best for their children.

At Tiny Thoughts , we leave no stone unturned to see that we put in place high- quality child care services, thorough bred educated instructors, as well as personal skills that will allow us compete well in our market . We shall also offer competitive price as part of one of our success factors so that we can attract all and sundry to our prestigious day care center.

Furthermore, we know the importance of having an excellent rapport with parents, and the community we serve, which is why we train and even retrain our workforce so that they bring the best of skills and attitude to the table at all times.

With the aforementioned points in place, we therefore do not intend to look for long before we attract customers as we go all-out to build a loyal customer base by offering the kids at the day care a very hospitable- yet educating experience in a comfortable and beneficial environment.

3. Our Products and Services

At Tiny Thoughts ®, we are first all about making the day care center a very conducive one. We are aware of the fact that some parents might hold back when it comes to the type of vicinity their kids will be put in; which is why we have taken time to research and learn the various ways to build a world class establishment. This we have done in the state of Ohio. Our services include the following;

• Taking care of the infants, toddlers and preschoolers
• Cleaning the infants and toddlers up whilst they are dirty
• Have all kids well fed when hungry
• Keep them active with some extracurricular activities

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to build a most standard day care business, where parents can unreservedly leave their kids in our hands, and be totally satisfied in the long run.
• To establish an international standard day care center where kids can be groomed and prepared to be leaders of tomorrow.

Our Business Structure

Big establishments know that one of the greatest selling points is to have the best hands. As such; we plan to only hire the most competent and seasoned employees. This is particularly important since it is uttermost on our minds to run our day care center with an intercontinental approach. This means that we are looking to have all races enroll in our establishment.

We came up with outright buying our own building, instead of having to make do with a leased one. This is why we have resolved to have quite a number of employees to be on our pay roll because of the ample room we have. Therefore, below is the type of structure we look to build our business on;

• Chief Executive Officer (Owner)
• Assistant Director

Administrative Assistant

• Accountants / Cashiers
• Infant room Supervisor

Toddler Room Supervisor

• Preschool room supervisor

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals.
• Responsible for recruitment
• Responsible for payment of salaries
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization
• Responsible for managing the daily activities in the day care center.
• Ensures that all orders and guidelines given by the CEO are adequately carried out.
• Interfaces with other employees
• Reports to the Chief Executive Officer
• Attends to Parent’s complaints and enquiries
• Prepares budget and reports for the organization
• Responsible for Training and Development in the day care center
• Any other duty as assigned by the CEO

Assistant Director:

• Responsible for assisting the director to carry out all that have been assigned by the CEO.
• Ensures that all employees carry out the agenda of the day care center to the latter.
• Responsible for quality control
• Any other duty as assigned by the CEO and director

Accountant / Cashier:

• Receives payments on behalf of Tiny Thoughts®
• Issues receipt to customers
• Prepare financial report at the end of every working Month
• Handles all financial transaction on behalf of Tiny Thoughts
• Interfaces with our bankers
• Responsible for payment of tax, levies and utility bills
• Any other duty as assigned by the CEO / Director
• Assists the director in seeing to it that all the kids are thought are line
• Ensures that all documents are safely kept
• Handles customers enquiries and keeps all records of kids and employees well
• Any other duty as assigned by the director

Infant Room Supervisor

• Responsible for supervising the nannies that take care of the infants.
• Makes sure that everything is in place
• Reports to the Director
• Relates with the nannies and cleaners
• Carries out any other task as assigned by the superiors
• Responsible for supervising the nannies that take care of the toddlers.

Preschool Room Supervisor

• Responsible for all the kitchen activities at the center
• Attends to the foods of all kids
• Takes orders that will advance the establishment from the Director, CEO and others.
• Responsible for cleaning the day care facility at all times
• Washes the mugs, spoons and other utensils
• Ensures that toiletries and supplies don’t run out of stock
• Cleans both the interior and exterior of the daycare
• Any other duty as assigned by the day care director.

6. SWOT Analysis

Our purpose of starting a day care center is to compete favorably with other schools, and surpass them. We have also decided to have a test run on the business for a period of 5 years. This is to know how we are able to fare during this time, as well as to determine if we are to devote more resources, additional money, for the expansion of the business.

We shall start with just one center for now and then see how we are able to succeed despite the myriad of competition. In arriving at all these, we deemed it fit to employ the services of an expert who has helped us with conducting a SWOT analysis.

It was expedient that we did this, so as to ensure that we have what it takes to run a day care school and perhaps even build more branches. Here is a summary of the result from the SWOT Analysis that was conducted on behalf of Tiny Thoughts;

Our area of strength to a very large extent lies in the fact that the owner of our day center is well versed in child psychology. This is really a positive one for us, because we believe that we shall be able to really handle the kids that are put in our care, unlike some folks who have no background knowledge in education and psychology.

The perceived weakness for our business could be that we are starting out as newbies and it really isn’t easy to convince people to come and enroll their kids at the day care. This is why we have got to really work hard at our advertising strategies, as well as solidify how to seal deal with our potential clients.

• Opportunities:

The fact that we intend to lower the fees involved in enrolling a kid at our daycare, seems to be one of the ways at which we will attract all and sundry. We are certain without a doubt that with the quality of our employees and services, we shall attract clients that would be highly satisfied with us.

Some of the threat our business may likely faced with might be a scenario where a kid has an illness and yet comes to the center. There may be likelihood that such an epidemic might spread to other kids. As such; this might not be nice because that might make some guardians want to withdraw their kids to a safer place.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

In the united states of America, you will quite agree that there are lots of guardians who need to work almost round the clock to eke out a living for them and their families. As such and as stated earlier, the need for someone to care for the kids whilst working in non negotiable.

That is why there will always be the need to have kids at day care centers. Furthermore, there is no indication that the day care trade would plummet anytime soon based on the statistics of parents who work that is found by experts.

There is always a boom in this business all year round, as the weather or state of the economy has nothing to do with it. That is why the services being rendered by us have to be top notch at all times. We do not want to be found wanting in any area, that is why we are sure to invest a lot in training our employees at all times.

Our positioning, as is always the case of determining the amount of customers that patronize a business is of importance to us, which is why we have chosen to start from Ohio.

Despite the fact that there loads of day care businesses who have done so well for themselves in the past, we plan to not leave any stone unturned as we continue to work at better ways to make our services known to people. Part of the marketing and sales strategies to be adopted includes;

• Commencing operation by first having a grand opening. This means that we will have a big party where we can invite those who reside in the neighborhood we propose to start out  from, as well as those from other neighborhoods.
• Ensure that we have all our professional employees present at the party and if possible show them off.
• Make use of attractive hand bills to create awareness and also to give direction to potential clients
• Position our signage / flexi banners at strategic places around the vicinity.
• Advertise our day care center on business directories, magazines and yellow pages.

8. Our Target Market

When it comes to the day care business, of course our target market is the guardians and parents. That is why we have got to primarily focus on these types of people. The people we intend offering our services to are;

• Corporate Executives
• Business People
• Sports Men and Women
• Government Officials
• Low class, middle class and high class people

Our Competitive Advantage

Going by the state where we have chosen to start from, we found that there are no day care centers in the vicinity we are, which is why if we are able to do our due diligence, and we are able to attract a crowd of customers there, then there is the possibility of hitting success in the first few years of operation.

We plan to run a standard day care business which is why we hired one of the leading business consultants to work with us in setting up our business. The business consultant we have hired has over 10 years of experience in business management and has successfully opened several day care businesses in major cities across the United States of America.

So far, there are clear indications that with what he has brought up, we shall no doubt do well and even surpass other businesses in the state. We believe that for us to have hired one of the experts in town, without a shadow of doubt, we will do exceptionally well when eventually we kick start.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Our sources of income for Tiny Thoughts is limited to the services of taking proper care of the children that have been placed in our care. However, we are not relenting when it comes to   opening different branches.

10. Sales Forecast

It is important to state that our sale forecast is based on the data gathered during our feasibility studies and also some of the assumptions readily available on the field. Below is the sales projection based on the location (Ohio), which already has an avalanche of day care schools.

• 200 pupils per session

N.B : Our annual projected sales for TinyThoughts ® is put at about $4,800-$16,500, or $400 -$1,375 monthly per child. Over and above, as Tiny Thoughts gets established, our net profitability will likely witness a boom as that indeed is what we project.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Tiny Thoughts will throw a grand opening party when it does start. One of the very unique things that we plan to do on that day is to; unveil some of the professionals and junior employees that we have. That is those who will help us get things started on the right footing. Why is this a big one for us? It is a big one for us because parents will have an opportunity to interact with this people, as well as ask all the questions they want.

The location of our day care center is strategically positioned to attract ample customers with little or no effort from our own part, which is why we do not make provisions for marketing and sales executives in our company’s structure. In view of that, we are going to adopt the following strategies to ensure that we do not only attract customers but generate a high number of people;

• Position our greeters to welcome parents and the kids as they arrive
• Create a loyalty plan that will enable us reward our regular customers
• Position our flexi banners at strategic positions all around the vicinity
• Advertise our Tiny Thoughts Business on yellow pages magazines
• Partner with child’/ education agencies to refer parents who are looking for a good day care center

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

When it comes to publicity and advertising, we have a low budget for it simply because our business is located in a place that can easily attract the numbers of customers we would need with little or no stress on our own part.

But for the fact that we hope to some day in the near future have more branches, we have decided to create a budget for publicity and advertisement for the major aim of introducing our brand in the market place. Everything that we will do in this regard is geared towards communicating our brand. Here are the platforms we intend leveraging on to promote and advertise our business;

• Place adverts on both print (travel magazines) and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant educational community programs
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook , twitter, et al to promote our brand
• Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas where guardians can be found.
• Position our Flexi Banners at strategic positions around the airport

12. Our Pricing Strategy

When it comes to fixing prices for our services, we will ensure that we set pricing in line with what is available in the day care trade. We are very aware that we have got to lower our price so that we will be able to attract customers like never before as we seek to gain recognition as newbies. When this is achieved, then bottom line is that our customers will derive real satisfaction when they bring their kids to us.

• Payment Options

Our payment policy is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that will be available in every of our outlets;

• Payment by cash
• Payment via Point of Sale (POS) Machine
• Payment via online bank transfer (online payment portal)
• Payment via Mobile money

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our plans without any itches.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

This is the key area where we will spend our start – up capital;

• The Total Fee for Registering the Business in Ohio: $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits as well as the accounting services totaling $1,300.
• Marketing promotion expenses for the grand opening of Coffee4All® in the amount of $3,500 and as well as flyer printing (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of $3,580.
• Cost for hiring Consultant – $2,500.
• Insurance (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $2,400.
• Cost for payment of rent for 12 month at $1.76 per square feet in the total amount of $52,800.
• Cost for building remodeling – $25,000.
• Other start-up expenses including stationery ( $500 ) and phone and utility deposits ( $2,500 ).
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $60,000
• The cost for Start-up inventory – $16,027
• The cost for office supplies (one month) – $287
• Daycare hardware ( bins, utensil rack, shelves, food case ) – $3,720
• Cost for client reception area equipment ( plates, glasses, flatware ) – $3,000
• Cost for equipment ( cash register, security, ventilation, signage ) – $13,750
• Office equipment and furniture – $3,600
• The cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets (Computers, Printers, Telephone, TVs, tables and chairs et al): $4,000.
• The cost of Launching a Website: $600
• The cost for our opening party: $5,000
• Miscellaneous: $2,500

We would need an estimate of about $100,000 to successfully set up our day care business. The amount includes the salary of all employees and the CEO (Owner) for 3 months.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for our Daycare Business

Tiny Thoughts is a private business that is solely owned by Mrs. Mary McGregor and she does not have the intention of welcoming any external partners except immediate family members which is why she has decided to restrict the sourcing of her start – up capital to 3 major sources. These are the areas we intend generating our start – up capital;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings
• Source for soft loans from family members and friends
• Apply for loan from my Bank

N.B : We have been able to generate about $60,000 ( Personal savings $40,000 and soft loan from family members $20,000 ) and we are at the final stage of obtaining a loan facility of $80,000 from our bank. All the papers and document has been signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited and we will be able to execute all the things that needs to be executed.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

Our plans of establishing Tiny Thoughts is basically to test – run the Day care trade. We have decided to start our first outlet in a competitive location like Ohio. Although we don’t have the intention of running chains of day care centers now, but we have plans to set up branches in years to come. It is pertinent to state that we shall not allow our standard operating process to drop so that we do not lose our loyal customers.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check:>Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
• Obtaining of health permit : Completed
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Purchasing a building and remodeling it: In Progress
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members: Completed
• Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
• writing of business plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed furniture, beddings, toys, electronic appliances, office appliances and other equipment: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the day care center: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and around the neighborhood of location: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
• Opening party / launching party planning: In Progress

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Home Business Plan Daycare

Daycare Business Plan Template

Download our template and create a business plan for your daycare!

Updated September 22, 2023 Reviewed by Brooke Davis

When you are ready to start a daycare business, you need an effective plan outlining how to get there. High-quality child care is in high demand, but you must be prepared for the challenges of starting a new business.

A solid business plan will get you off on the right foot before you even open the doors of your new facility.

With these helpful tips, you can learn how to make a business plan for a daycare center. Whether you are looking to watch over young children or even need a dog daycare business plan, Legal Templates is here to help you get started.

Why You Need a Business Plan for Your Daycare Business

How to write a business plan for a daycare.

• Management Team

Daycare Business Plan Sample

A business plan sets the stage for how you will operate your business and how you will get it running. A daycare is no different. Opening a daycare requires intensive planning, legal compliance, and understanding of your market.

A daycare business plan template walks you through the steps to build a proper path forward. Every successful business is planned correctly, not as you go along.

A sample daycare business plan pdf or Word document lays it out for you. You can learn how to put it together and what you must include. Many business plans help you understand what you must do to prepare.

Some are designed to recruit potential investors to your cause. Either way, you need a business plan to prepare you for the challenges and successes ahead.

Knowing how to write your daycare business plan can be tricky without some help. You may not have done this before, but a daycare business plan example can help.

Follow these writing tips in each section to create a strong business plan for your future daycare.

1. Executive Summary

The initial section of your business plan is the executive summary. This part of your plan is an introduction for whoever reads it. It is designed to offer an overview of the remaining sections. It should be concise and add only summary details—this is not the section for intensive information or data.

The executive summary will highlight what your daycare business will look like and the most crucial section of your entire plan.

This section may provide information such as:

• A business address
• Phone number, email address, and other contact information
• List of owners
• Banking information
• Start date for the daycare
• Client base
• Market niche
• Factors for success

The executive summary lets you make a case for why your particular daycare will be successful and competitive. It is also the section that helps you sell yourself and your business to potential investors who may play a critical role in starting your daycare.

Provide a mission statement that reflects your goals for the daycare and your motivation for starting your business.

2. Management Team

Your daycare business plan should include important information about your management team. The first part of this section may address ownership of the business itself. It should outline all essential ownership details, such as:

• Legal names of every owner
• Each owner’s proportionate share
• The format of ownership percentage (i.e., stocks, capital investments, etc.)
• The format of the business (Corporation, LLC, etc.)
• Contact information for each owner

You want everyone who reads this business plan to know who has a stake and how their interests are represented. These details are a crucial part of business formation and preventing costly legal disputes in the future.

The management team section should also include the profiles of your management staff. These people will run the business daily, and they should be properly vetted before being put in charge.

Your business plan should list the management teams’:

• Names and positions
• Summary of responsibilities
• Credentials and education background
• Prior employment or experience
• Early childhood education licensing or other credentialing
• Management experience
• Salary and benefits
• Past success in a similar role

This information should demonstrate why these are the right people for the job. Not only does it help you know how your business will run, but it also shows others you have a proper plan in place for your daycare.

3. Products and Services

This section lets you talk about why you are starting this business in the first place. You will outline the services or products you intend to sell to consumers. For a daycare, it should outline the following:

• Who is being cared for: Children, elderly adults, or pets?
• Business hours
• Staff costs and required credentials
• Will you offer food, diapers, and other child-care products?
• How will you measure sales metrics

Daycare is typically considered a service, but product sales are also often a part of this model. Your plan should adequately account for how you will handle this dual purpose and how it fits into your business model.

4. Customers and Marketing

You must identify your market and how you will get customers into your daycare. This section will focus on your area’s need for daycare services and the types of customers you expect to get.

Identification of customers is a vital part of a business plan and should include details like:

• How many parents need childcare services?
• What costs can families be expected to pay for your services
• The community you will target
• Demographic data for potential customers

With your customers in mind, you can focus on your marketing strategies. You want to differentiate yourself from competitors and ensure the community knows your new business. The daycare business plan must outline how you will achieve these goals.

A marketing strategy should combine both traditional and digital marketing methods, including:

• Open houses
• Word-of-mouth advertising
• Advertisements in the paper or yellow pages
• Billboards or other ads
• Television, radio, or internet advertisements
• Social media pages

5. SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis will address your daycare’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and potential threats. This analytical method examines your company and how it will operate.

It puts each of the four metrics into a visual matrix to help prospective business owners quickly identify favorable and unfavorable factors that may affect their business venture.

A SWOT analysis should focus on how your daycare services can perform against competitors. It may address factors like:

• Any threats the daycare may face
• Competitive advantages and why they would be successful
• Areas that may be improved over time
• Technology or resources the company may use to increase efficiency
• Internal factors that may affect economic success

Detailed SWOT sections show investors you have done your homework and give you valuable data to make informed business choices.

6. Financials

A business plan should address the unique financial situation you face. Your daycare business plan should demonstrate your break-even amounts and expected profit margins.

It will also address the costs and the areas of revenue you expect. You will want to address the following:

• Enrollment fees
• Payment plans
• Cost of supplies and materials
• Employee costs
• Regulatory costs
• Additional program offerings and revenue
• Necessary loans or capital improvements

A well-developed budget can demonstrate expected cash flows versus expected expenditures. Knowing how to handle these costs will be incredibly helpful in starting your daycare.

7. Operations

Your operational plan should outline specific procedures your business and staff will follow. It will list employees and those in management positions and their responsibilities.

As in your management section, a detailed “chain of command” is essential. Staff are an important part of your operations and should be detailed here.

One of the most important aspects of a daycare operation is its location. It would be best if you addressed the following:

• The facility’s address
• The type of area it is in (residential, commercial)
• The space available and amenities
• Why is it a prime location
• Accessibility to the community for drop-off

You should also list your business hours and the services you will have available at different times. Child daycare centers differ in when they offer care—whether during the day, evenings, or even on weekends.

If you are doing other forms of daycare, you may even utilize late or overnight hours. You can decide how you run your business, but operations should be clearly outlined in your business plan.

8. Appendix

The appendix section allows you to include other documents that add to your business plan. They may include legal documents like licensing credentials, insurance information, and business formation documents.

Additional documents in this area are meant to support your business plan. The appendix might also include the following:

• Reference letters
• Photographs of the facility, locations, or general area
• Market research data
• Compliance Requirements

The appendix is a flexible section that lets you add supporting documents and other relevant information. Only add details that are helpful to your business plan. The appendix does not need to be lengthy or filled with fluff.

Legal Templates has the daycare business plan sample you need to construct your plan. With this sample at your disposal, you can formulate a business plan for your daycare to show to investors or for your purposes.

You may also use a business plan builder template to help you construct your daycare business plan step by step. See the sample below to help you get started.

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Child Day Care Services Business Plan

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Kid's Community College

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">.

Kid’s Community College® aims to prepare its students to excel as young leaders of tomorrow by combining an exclusive collegiate-based curriculum tailored specifically for children with enhanced, first class child care services. Unlike our competitors, we offer advanced technology programs, after-school tutoring, and activities such as arts and crafts, dance, theatre and gymnastics, all in one location.

Kid’s Community College is a privately held corporation run by its owner, Timothy Bernard Kilpatrick, Sr. Mr. Kilpatrick has 17 years of Executive Management (VP) and Budgeting experience, and extensive experience with budgeting methodologies and strategic planning, including the Balanced Scorecard approach. His advanced degree (and interest) in computer science is the driving force behind our technology component. He will be supported in daily operations by an industry consultant, a campus director, and a VP of educational operations, all with extensive experience in child care fields.

With inflation continuing to rise each year, the typical American family now requires dual or supplemental incomes. This trend has created a need for quality child care services. The population growth rate in the Riverview area of Hillsborough County is now over 14.6%, leading us to anticipate expanding market potential for this industry in our local area. Price, service, certification and reputation are critical success factors in the child care services industry. Kid’s Community College® will compete well in our market by offering competitive prices, high-quality child care services, and leading-edge educational programs with certified, college-educated instructors, and by maintaining an excellent reputation with parents and the community we serve.

This is a daycare business plan for Kid’s Community College®, which will focus on two subdivisions: ‘Lake St. Charles’ and ‘The Villages of Lake St. Charles,’ which are new upscale community developments within a 2 square mile radius, boasting over 900 new homes. Our target customers are dual-income, middle-class families who value the quality of education and child care we provide for their children, ages 4 months to 12 years.

We will open for business starting with an initial enrollment of 13 students. We project healthy revenues by the end of the first year, and expect to nearly triple that by the end of Year 3. Our biggest operating expenses will be compensation at industry standard rates for our highly-qualified personnel, and rent on our facilities, improved for our purposes during the start-up period. We would like to grow into four campuses, eventually, but growth is planned conservatively, to be financed from existing cash flow as we go. We anticipate a net profit beginning in our second year.

To these ends, we are putting significant investment in the business, and are seeking a matching amount in the form of an SBA loan.

“Some of the best years in life are the time spent as a child and later our collegiate years…” As working adults in a fast paced society, we sometimes forget just how precious and  fleeting those years are.

With that in mind, imagine an alternative to traditional infant, day and after school care that not only met your child care needs, but also provided an activity based learning environment that mirrors those used at colleges, universities and vocational centers around the nation.  A college community of professional care givers with the credentials to not only enhance your child’s early social and motor skills, but to also teach them advanced studies in the arts and sciences found at institutions of higher learning.  A collegiate-based curriculum tailored specifically for children, taught in a fun, nurturing care giving environment.

Now imagine this at a cost less than that of the combination of conventional day care and specific interest based children programs.

Kid’s Community College® is a start-up comprehensive community college exclusively for kids ages 4 months to 5 years and 1st through 5th grades.  The College dedicates its efforts and resources toward ensuring top-rated care giving services coupled with a high-quality activity based learning environment tailored for children in these age groups.  The College will respond to the needs of its parents and students with excellent care-giving and instruction, an advanced curriculum, flexible programs, local community involvement and business partnerships.

The College has a strong commitment to accessibility and diversity.  Its open door policy embraces all who desire to provide a better quality of care, preparedness and education for their children.  The College works to provide affordable, first-class care giving and education by providing a broad range of integrated programs and services and innovative learning approaches.

The College is committed to taking a leadership role in child care services, higher learning, community services and promoting cultural diversity.  Kid’s Community College® directs its activities towards student success.

• Sales increasing to almost double first year sales by the end of Year 2.
• Maintain a high raw gross margin by the end of Year 1.
• Open second campus by the end of Year 1.
• Begin franchise effort by end of Year 3.

Keys to Success

The keys to success for KCC are:

• Marketing: differentiating KCC’s care giving and educational services from traditional daycare offerings and interest activity programs.
• Service quality: care giving and educational programs provided by degreed and certified educators, child care workers, tutors and subject matter industry professionals in a technologically advanced first-class collegiate environment.
• Reputation: maintaining a highly regarded reputation for excellence in care giving, education and community involvement and being the employer of choice in our market for child care and educational talent.
• Profitability: controlling costs and managing budgets in accordance with company goals, adhering to strategic business plans for growth and expansion and reinvesting in the business and its employees.

Company Summary company overview ) is an overview of the most important points about your company—your history, management team, location, mission statement and legal structure.">

Kid’s Community College® – Lake St. Charles Campus will be located in Riverview, FL.  The College will employ six fundamentals that will serve as the driving force for the services offered:

• Premier Care Giving Services
• An Activity Based, Children Structured Collegiate Curriculum
• Advanced Technology and Developmental Programs
• Trademarked General and “Continuing” Education Mentoring and Tutoring 
• Learning Services
• Community Advancement and Involvement

The Lake St. Charles campus is a newly constructed, 3,600 square foot facility in the Lake St. Charles Medical Plaza and will be developed meeting strict KCC design standards, under close supervision of Hillsborough County child care Licensing.

Start-up Summary

The college founder and president, Mr. Kilpatrick, will oversee fiscal responsibility, employing an independent CPA for financial oversight.  A Campus Director will be hired to handle day-to-day operations of the facility and will work collaboratively with the silent partners and other campus personnel to ensure a successful business venture.

As reflected in the table below, the estimated start-up costs for KCC will be $39,450.  These costs will be financed solely by the owners’ personal cash funds and optional credit lines.  An anticipated $60,000 SBA guaranteed 5-year loan will be used as working capital.  Future expansion, growth and franchising strategy will be self-financed.

Company Locations and Facilities

Kid’s Community College® will begin with one location – a newly constructed 3,600 square foot campus in Riverview, FL located near the entrance of the upscale Lake St. Charles subdivision.  The campus is in the Lake St. Charles Medical Professional center and will boast separate halls for arts and crafts, theatre and dance, information technology, library and quiet study, tutoring, infant care and a cafeteria.  The play area will be adjacent to the campus and will be securely fenced and furnished with appropriate playground equipment and facilities. 

Three additional campuses are planned in the rural Tampa marketplace over the next four years.  Franchise start-ups will be offered in the Orlando, Miami and Jacksonville marketplace after 2 years of successful operation.

Company Ownership

Kid’s Community College® is a privately-held proprietorship owned in majority by its founder and president, Timothy Bernard Kilpatrick, Sr.  There are also two silent partners, neither of whom owns more than 10%, but will be active participants in daily operations, management decisions and consulting, though they do not own a financial stake in the company.

Once the operation reaches its anticipated growth and profitability goals, the college plans to franchise and will re-register as a limited liability company or as a corporation, whichever will better suit the future business needs. 

Kid’s Community College® offers upscale child care services and an advanced collegiate based curriculum designed for kids ages 4 months to 5 years and 1st through 5th grades.  Normal operating hours will be 6:45am to 6:30pm, Monday through Friday – with observance of all major legal holidays.  Early drop-off service will be offered as needed. 

KCC exists to provide Premier child care services that are aimed at enhancing traditional day care methodologies and integrating extracurricular interests (such as arts and crafts, dance, theatre and gymnastics) into one comprehensive program.  Our activity based collegiate curriculum is specifically tailored for children and mirrors the arts and sciences taught at colleges, universities and vocational schools around the nation.  We offer state-of-the-art technology programs in leading-edge facilities which help prepare students for the technology age in which they live.  Our general and “continuing” education programs help mentor and tutor students through “main school” homework assignments and provide a base of understanding and interaction to ensure success in future educational endeavors.  Finally, our developmental programs reinforce basic social, listening, independence and motor skills and prepare students for future related interaction.

All of our learning and child care services employ technology, partnerships, professional services and other activities that support and promote higher learning.

In addition to the extensive services and curriculum offered, each campus will also offer weekend specialty classes for children and adults and planned family activities in the community it serves.  KCC will also offer children birthday party hosting services, providing great activities for kids and an easy experience for parents.  Activity instructors will be assigned for these events and will lead the activities, ensuring a memorable celebration. 

Service Description

Upon its opening, Kid’s Community College® will offer four basic services in the Lake St. Charles community:

• Full-time Child Day Care
• Part-time/After School Care (including drop-off and pick-up)
• After School Tutoring
• Drop-In Care

Prior to opening, the college will have a two-month enrollment drive.  Based on the market reaction to the drive, these services may be altered to meet the needs of the community.  The college will always remain nimble enough to respond to the needs of the community in which it serves.

Competitive Comparison

The child care industry as a whole is saturated.  However, based on US Census 2000 data, Hillsborough County Child Care Services provider listings and Hillsborough County building permit records, the city of Riverview, Florida itself is growing and has few licensed child care facilities.  Kid’s Community College® intends to fill this local market need.

The Lake St. Charles and ‘The Villages of Lake St. Charles’ subdivisions have 800 and 100 single family homes respectively. There are only two other child care facilities in the neighborhood. One is in the immediate area, a church based facility and the other is 2 miles away, a facility hosted by a local martial arts academy.  There are also three family child caregivers listed in the area, but none in the immediate community.  Kid’s Community College® will differentiate itself from its local competitors by offering an alternative to these traditional day care approaches. 

The Kid’s Community College® market strategy is based on providing an activity based learning environment that is used in many major colleges, universities and vocational centers around the nation. We will offer a community of professional caregivers with the credentials to not only enhance a child’s early social and motor skills, but to also teach them advanced studies in the arts and sciences found at institutions of higher learning.

Kid’s Community College® will be located in a new medical arts plaza, which has already shown a need and interest for child care services. The center currently has a pediatrics office and fitness center with clientele that has inquired about child care services. By forming collaborative partnerships with these businesses and becoming an active voice in the Lake St. Charles community, the college will position itself as the market share leader in child care services, development and educational offerings.

Sales Literature

A copy of the Kid’s Community College® informational brochure is attached in an appendix at the end of this document.

Fulfillment

The key fulfillment and delivery of services will be provided by the campus director, licensed campus instructors and staff workers. The real core value is the professional strength and industry expertise of the founder and silent partners, staff experience and certifications, education and hard work (in that order).

We will turn to qualified professionals for freelance back-up in tutoring and educational support, which will enhance the core values provided to the clients.

Since the company founder has an extensive Information Technology background, it’s only natural that Kid’s Community College® will employ and maintain the latest technology to enhance its curriculum, office management systems, payment processing and record keeping.

Future Services

Three additional campuses are planned in the rural Tampa marketplace over the next four years. Franchise start-ups will be offered in the Orlando, Miami and Jacksonville marketplace after 2 years of successful operation.

Market Analysis Summary how to do a market analysis for your business plan.">

Kid’s Community College® offers services which are vitally important in today’s fast paced, dual-income world. As an increasing number of families have become dependent on two incomes, the need for quality child care has skyrocketed. According to Florida Business Statistics, 84.6% of licensed child care facilities succeed and make a profit in their 1st year of operation.  Nationally, this number is 66.7%. 

Market Segmentation

Kid’s Community College® has a focus on meeting the local community need for child care services within the 10-mile radius of Riverview.  Students will be taken in flexibly on either a full-time or part-time basis.

Full-Time Working Couples

The college will establish a significantly large, full-time, regular client base in order to establish the healthy, consistent revenue base which will ensure stability of the business.  Customer and community relations are extremely important, as it is imperative to keep the parents pleased in order to keep their children in the college.

After School Care

Another large segment of the college’s business will be in the after school care market.  This client base will provide a higher profit for the college since instructor-to-student ratios are higher, and the students require more educational services, which are the primary focus of the college.  By offering tutoring, and advanced studies in technology, theatre, arts and sciences, the college will attract these profitable business clients, producing significant supplemental revenues.

Part-Time Workers/Drop-Ins

Part-time workers and Drop-Ins from the fitness center and locals businesses will comprise less than 1% of the revenues.  While this market is not a primary focus, sufficient flexibility to handle this market is important to the local ‘word-of-mouth’  marketing strategy.

Target Market Segment Strategy

The target market for Kid’s Community College® is full-time working couples. Referral marketing, direct-mail campaigns and community activity days will be the primary types of marketing strategies utilized. Maintaining and enhancing its reputation with families and in the community will be crucial in obtaining the planned market share growth of this target market.

Market Growth

According to US Census 2000 data, the population growth rate for Hillsborough county is approximately 2%, which is reflected in the market analysis summary. However, the Riverview area of Hillsborough County is experiencing a residential construction boom, yielding well over a 14.6% growth. This is supported by data obtained from the Hillsborough County Building Permits office and is included in the appendix of this plan. This suggests that more families continue to move into the Riverview area, thus becoming potential customers.

In our market analysis, we suggest a modest 6% yearly growth in the number of potential customers.

Market Needs

With inflation continuing to rise each year, the typical American family now requires dual or supplemental incomes. This trend has created a need for quality child care services. We do not see this model changing in the foreseeable future. In fact, based on the growth in the Riverview area, specifically the new Lake St. Charles and Village of Lake St. Charles communities, we expect the need to increase.

Market Trends

Currently there are more family caregivers than licensed child care facilities nationwide. However, this business model can’t keep up with the needs of the growing child care industry. In the family care giver paradigm, space is limited and quality of care is questionable – in many cases viewed as only slightly higher quality than babysitter services.

Service Business Analysis

Kid’s Community College® is in the child care services industry, which includes several models:

• Licensed Child Care Facilities: Business facilities that offer child daycare services.
• Family Child Care Homes: Individuals that offer child daycare services in their homes.
• Specific Interest Based Programs: Businesses that offer specialized instruction such as gymnastics, martial arts and athletics.
• Church Child Care Facilities: Religious organizations that offer child daycare services in their communities.

Competition and Buying Patterns

Price, service, certification and reputation are critical success factors in the child care services industry. Kid’s Community College® will compete well in our market by offering competitive prices, high-quality child care services, and leading-edge educational programs with certified, college-educated instructors, and by maintaining an excellent reputation with parents and the community in which we serve.

Main Competitors

• Weaknesses: May not appeal to customers of different religious beliefs. Unlicensed facility.  Non-accredited. 
• Weaknesses: Location – outside of middle-income market. Non-educational offering.  Building condition – prone to constant flooding. 
• Family Child Care Homes:
• Weaknesses: Capacity – only allowed a certain number of children. Non-professional stigma. 

Business Participants

• Specific Interest Based Programs: Martial Arts America
• Church Child Care Facilities: Christian Day Academy (not licensed).

Strategy and Implementation Summary

Kid’s Community College® will focus on two subdivisions: ‘Lake St. Charles’ and ‘The Villages of Lake St. Charles,’ which are new upscale community developments within a 2 square mile radius and boast over 900 new homes. 

The target customers are dual income, middle-class families who value the quality of education and child care provided for their children ages 4 months to 12 years.

Value Proposition

Kid’s Community College’s® value proposition is quite clear and quite easily distinguished from others in the market. We offer uniquely premium child care services, as measured by the curriculum and activities offered, experience and educational level of the instructors, community involvement and community college theme. 

Competitive Edge

We start with a critical competitive edge: there is no competitor in our market that is offering our concept, quality of educational program and child care services. Our educational approach is unique and we have a resource with over 25 years of child care expertise and over 17 years of technology savvy. Our positioning on these points is very hard to match, but only if we maintain the focus in our strategy, marketing, business development, and fulfillment. We should be aware that the tendency to dilute this expertise with bargain shopping could weaken the importance of our competitive edge, but we must continue to bolster our value proposition.

Marketing Strategy

Marketing in the child care industry depends largely on reputation and referral. At Kid’s Community College® that reputation will start within our community bolstered by our involved commitment to those we serve. 

Promotion Strategy

1.  Advertising –We’ll be developing our core positioning message: “A community college for kids!” to differentiate our service from the competition.  We will be using direct mail campaigns, pre-enrollment drives, and local community newspaper advertising to launch the initial campaign. 

2.  Sales Brochure –Our theme and curriculum will help sell the college to prospective clients. 

3.  Direct Mail –We will send quarterly direct mail campaigns to the housing developments in a 10-mile radius of the campus.  We will also offer monthly calendars for parents and the Lake St. Charles community, noting weekend family days and other open house approaches. 

4.  Community Involvement –We will be active in the Lake St. Charles community, sponsoring events at the community center for families and residents.

Marketing Programs

Catered open houses, parent survival days/nights, clubhouse pool parties and weekend movie matinees are but a few approaches we will utilize to reach out to our community.  We will also develop and maintain partnerships with local businesses that cater to the needs of children. 

Our pre-opening effort will include an application fee waiver, free children ID cards, T-shirts and a community block party sponsored and hosted by Kid’s Community College®.

Positioning Statement

For families who value the importance of higher education and quality child care services, Kid’s Community College® offers a great alternative to traditional child care services and specific interest based programs. Unlike those programs, KCC combines child care services with a modified collegiate level curriculum, just for kids!

Pricing Strategy

Kid’s Community College® must charge appropriately for the high-end, high-quality educational and care giving services we offer. Our revenue structure has to support our cost structure, so the salaries we pay to assure quality services must be balanced by the revenue we charge. 

We will be price competitive in the market we serve; however, we will not subscribe to the “low price leader” concept. The quality of our service will support the prices we charge.

Sales Strategy

Kid’s Community College® will sell its community college theme, services and offerings, separating itself from traditional daycare-only offerings.

We will be a one-stop shop for child care services, advanced learning and specialized program offerings.  We will also be active in the community, building a solid reputation with parents and the community.  By succeeding in these areas, we expect to begin seeing an operational net profit in month nine of the 1st year, while increasing enrollment by 32% monthly for the first 8 months and gradually thereafter, until our maximum allowed capacity is reached.

Sales Forecast

The following table and chart give a run-down on forecasted sales.  A detailed spreadsheet is also included in the appendix of this business plan. 

For the first eight months of operation, Kid’s Community College® has assumed a conservative enrollment due to the fact that school, aftercare and child care placement has already taken place for the school year and most parents will be comfortable with their current arrangements.  Consequently, we expect initial enrollment to be far less than anticipated future year levels. 

A sales increase of approximately 32% each month is expected until the start of the next school term, in August.  While this forecasted  increase seems large by industry standards, it is a good estimate based on initial enrollment.  Going into years 2 and 3, we expect that our presence will be known, convenience factor considered and we will then be a considered as a choice in August 2003.  In fiscal years 2004 and 2005, 80% and 90% of full enrollment is assumed respectively.

We expect to be open for business on January 1, 2003, starting with an initial enrollment of 13 students:

7 Full-time students at $115 each per week.  6 After-school students at $60 each per week and Drop-in revenue of approximately $100 per month. 

Sales Programs

Sales programs will include incentives for obtaining quarterly financial and enrollment goals, probationary period completion, passing county inspections and maintaining perfect attendance. 

Customer service awards will be provided for those employees who best exemplify the mission of Kid’s Community College® and exceed customers’ expectations. 

The accompanying table highlights important start-up milestones, with dates, completion status, responsible parties and budgets for each.  The milestone schedule indicates our emphasis on planning for implementation. 

What the table doesn’t show is the commitment behind it.  Our business plan includes complete provisions for plan-vs.-actual analysis, and we will hold monthly follow-up meetings to discuss the variance and course corrections. 

Strategic Alliances

As mentioned previously, Kid’s Community College® will form professional alliances with Impact Fitness to offer Drop-In child care services while parents work out.  We will also partner with Family Pediatrics to provide referrals of their existing customers.  A discounted rate will be offered in both cases.

Web Plan Summary

The Kid’s Community College® website will be the virtual business card and portfolio for the college, as well as its online “home.”

It will showcase the campus, curriculum and activity calendar for the school.  It will also provide for an Internet background of the instructors, online projects posted by the students, the campus newsletter and online enrollment. 

The Kid’s Community College® website will be simple, yet classy and well designed, but at the same time, in keeping with the latest trends in user interface design.  A site that is too flashy, or tries to use too much of the latest technology can be over-done, and may not be supported by all browsers. 

The key to the website strategy will be presenting a very well designed and informative Web presence that will market the Kid’s Community College® image, service offerings and community commitment.

Website Marketing Strategy

The Kid’s Community College® website will embody the mission of the college.  It will not only offer visitors the opportunity to “look around” the campus, but it will give them a good idea of the level of quality and service they can come to expect from the college.

Mostly informative in nature, the website will be a digital representation of our physical self. 

Development Requirements

The Kid’s Community College® website will be developed by the college founder, Timothy B. Kilpatrick, Sr., who has over 17 years of Information Technology experience.  Formation Technologies will host the site.

The site will be developed using Macromedia Dreamweaver 4, which will allow for support outside of Mr. Kilpatrick’s involvement.  The initial maintenance of the site will be done by Mr. Kilpatrick. 

Management Summary management summary will include information about who's on your team and why they're the right people for the job, as well as your future hiring plans.">

The opening management team of Kid’s Community College® will consist of the founder, a silent partner, a campus director and administrative assistant.

As the college grows, gradual investments in the instructional staff will be made over the next 3 years – beginning in June 2003 or as otherwise dictated by enrollment.

Organizational Structure

Kid’s Community College® depends on the founder, silent partner, Campus Director and VP of Education Operations for management in the following roles:

Management Team

Owner/President – Timothy B.  Kilpatrick, Sr.  The Owner/President will have overall fiscal responsibility, ensuring that the business is financially sound and attains its planned goals. 

• 17 years Executive Management (VP) and Budgeting experience
• Advanced degree in Computer Science
• Proven leadership and employee development ability
• Extensive experience with budgeting methodologies and strategic planning, including the Balanced Scorecard approach.

Industry Consultant – Carolyn Steverson.  The Industry Consultant will be relied upon for her industry expertise, providing valuable insight to rules, regulations and governmental programs that may benefit the college.

• 25 Year owner of Fat Albert Day Care Center
• Licensed child care facility owner
• Vast knowledge of Hillsborough County Child Care Licensing requirements and government supplemental programs

Campus Director – Candice Harris.  The Campus Director will be responsible for daily operations, curriculum oversight and management of all instructors, caregivers and tutors.

• B.S.  Degree in Education
• 2 years facilities administration/support experience with the University of South Florida
• 2+ years Regional Operations Manager
• 5+ years managerial/supervisory experience
• 3+ years grant writing, technical writing, workflow and process documentation experience

VP of Education Operations – Nitika Steverson-Kilpatrick

• Collegiate-level Public Relations education
• 5+ years customer service experience
• 8+ years child care industry experience (her mother owns Fat Albert Daycare)
• Extensive theatre and dance background

Management Team Gaps

The present team requires Child Care Development Associate credentials to support our value proposition and preparation for 2004 Florida child care requirements.  Currently, the Campus Director and Industry Consultant are the only members of the management team who have these credentials.

The Owner/President and VP of Education Operations will be enrolling in January 2003 to complete the six-month course required to obtain these credentials.  Education for these two can’t begin in this area until that time since it is a requirement that the college be open for business before the course work can begin.  Long-term, all full-time instructors will be required by the college (not the State) to obtain this credential.

Regarding financial administration, we will retain a strong CPA to help the owner guard cash flow.  While the owner is well versed in the worries of cash flow, he also has the sense to listen to reason and deal with constraints, as guided by the CPA.

Personnel Plan

The following table summarizes our personnel expenditures for the first three years, with compensation increasing from approximately $57K the first year to about $113K in the third.  We believe this plan is a fair compromise between fairness and expedience, and meets the commitment of our mission statement. 

The yearly figures in the second and third year are assumptions for the Lake St. Charles campus only.  The numbers reflect 100% enrollment, a full staff of instructors and a 5% payroll increase each year – which will include tuition reimbursement, pay increases, vacation pay, bonuses and state required certifications.

Financial Plan investor-ready personnel plan .">

• Adequate start-up capital is assumed, along with an SBA 5-year guaranteed loan.

Important Assumptions

The Kid’s Community College® financial plan depends on important assumptions, most of which are shown in the following table as annual assumptions.  The monthly assumptions are included in the appendices.  From the beginning, it is recognized that total enrollment is critical, which is a factor that must be influenced immediately.  Interest rates, tax rates, and personnel burden are based on conservative assumptions. 

The most important underlying assumption is that there is a strong need for the business in the Lake St. Charles community. 

Key Financial Indicators

The following benchmark chart indicates the key financial indicators for the first three years.  We foresee a gradual growth in sales (enrollment) and operating expenses into the second and third year.

It is projected that the raw gross margin will remain stable for the first three years since expenses are relatively indirect in the service based course work industry.  Operating expenses increase gradually as enrollment increases.

Enrollment is very important.  We must maintain an average weekly enrollment of 34 students for fixed cost coverage. 

Break-even Analysis

For the break-even analysis, start-up monthly running costs assumptions are shown in the the table below, including a three person payroll, rent, utilities and an estimation of other running costs.  Payroll, at median market averages, was presented previously in the Personnel table. 

Based on these assumptions, the chart below shows the enrollment of students per month needed to break-even.  This represents about 46% of our allowable monthly enrollment based on state and county course work guidelines.

Projected Profit and Loss

Our projected profit and loss is shown on the following table, with sales increasing from the first year to the third. 

In years two and three, we are projecting full enrollment regarding cost of sales and gross margin.  The investment return in these years supports the goal of opening another campus at the end of the second year and begin the franchise offering by the end of the third year.  Profit from the additional campuses and income from franchising are not included in this business plan. 

The detailed monthly projections are included in the appendices. 

Projected Cash Flow

The following cash flow projections show the annual amounts only, significant for the first year mainly in the amounts projected in cash sales and payables. 

Cash flow projections are critical to the success of Kid’s Community College®.  The monthly cash flow is shown in the illustration, with one bar representing the cash flow per month and the other the monthly cash balance.  The annual cash flow figures are included here and the more important detailed monthly numbers are included in the appendices. 

Projected Balance Sheet

The balance sheet in the following table shows managed but sufficient growth of net worth, and a gradually sufficient healthy financial position.  The monthly estimates are included in the appendices.

Business Ratios

The following table shows the projected businesses ratios for our industry: Child Day Care services, SIC code 8351. Kid’s Community College® expects to maintain healthy ratios for profitability, risk, and return.

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How to Write a Successful Daycare Business Plan

Creating a daycare business plan can be a daunting task. A strong business plan needs to include all of your expenses, which might entail even more than you had originally thought. It is also challenging to estimate market demand and project enrollment growth.

Studying your competition is a great place to start. Next, you’ll need to choose the location of your center carefully.

A good business plan makes projections three to five years ahead. Always refer to your business plan as you move your new business forward. Make an effort to solidify your analysis so that you can successfully achieve your goals.

Determine your edge over your competitors

It’s also important to come up with a comprehensive description of your child care center. Think of this as your “elevator pitch” for potential business partners and investors. They should be excited about your programs, vision, and location. 

Contemplate the following questions when creating your daycare center’s description:

• What is the basis of your curriculum ?
• What qualities are you looking for when hiring staff?

Discuss the market in your daycare business plan , including:

• Stats and characteristics of the neighborhood
• The location of your center
• Assets that makes that area promising

You can also refer to real estate websites to provide you with helpful insight into the demographics and an evaluation of the neighborhood. Find out how many competitors are in the same area. Then determine if the number of children under five years of age in your region will be enough to keep your business going strong.

Perform a market analysis

The next step is to study the child care industry. Answer the following questions in your market analysis:

• How vast is the child care industry?
• According to analysts, what is the projected growth of this industry?

Determine your market size

It’s vital to determine your target market when writing your business plan . Find out the median age of the neighborhood near your daycare. Are you located in a commuter town? Determine how your center will cater to various kinds of parents in your location.

Create your business model

Decide how your business will operate. Think about the following aspects:

• Pricing structure
• Gross margin
• Will discounts be offered?
• Will you accept government-subsidized and lower payments from low-income families?
• What types of child care discounts will you offer to your employees?

Location and rental

There are two important considerations when looking for a location to lease. First of all, find out what the square-foot-per-child requirement is in your area. Secondly, how much is the price per square foot of your location? Generally speaking, the younger a child is, the more square feet per child will be required.

Plan to negotiate for some free months with the landlord, because a daycare center will take time due to factors like construction, securing licenses and permits, and others. Make this clear to the lessor. These are the things to include in your daycare business plan’s lease information.

You may prefer a longer lease in exchange for a few months free.

Cost Projection

As your enrollment increases , hiring more staff to comply with the student-to-teacher ratio requirement is inevitable. Your center will need things like more supplies and food as well.

Here are some factors that will require projection:

• Registration fees
• Wait-list fees
• Construction costs
• Training costs
• Supply costs
• Utility costs
• Software costs
• Marketing costs
• Staff appreciation day costs
• Bank service charges
• Accountant and legal costs
• Monthly nurse consultant costs

Research competitors

When writing about competitors, answer these questions in your daycare business plan

• How much is their market share?
• What are their strengths and weaknesses?
• What impediments could prevent your daycare center from growing?

Write down your marketing plan

Since you’re just starting your daycare center, we recommend budget-friendly marketing strategies to help you get your name out there.

Plan how you’ll reach your target market. Find out what families are looking for, and determine how your center can fill those needs. An effective marketing strategy presents a daycare center’s exceptional strengths. 

Finalize your daycare business plan with an executive summary

As a new daycare center owner, the things you fully comprehend about the business may still be limited. However, there are still plenty of things to include in your plan. For example, you can include your purpose and strategy, the motivation behind the establishment of your center, the needs of your customers, and your growth projection.

No Joke Childcare has helped a variety of daycare centers with their marketing efforts through creating optimized websites, compelling ads, persuasive content, and much more. For more information about what we can do for your center, call us today!

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How to write a business plan for your daycare center.

Here we have put together a list of key elements to help write a successful daycare business plan .

Do Your   Research

The first step to developing a business plan for your daycare center is to do your research. Look at what your competitors are doing – think about what makes them successful and/or their pitfalls.

Do they have a unique mission statement? Does their staff follow a specific teaching philosophy? Realizing other daycares’ competitive advantages will help you identify any gaps that these centers are not filling.

You’ll also want to research the demographics of your area. What does a typical family in your area look like? In some areas it’s typical for both parents to work, but in others it’s not. You may also want to look into things like education level, religion, income level, how many children are in a typical family, as well as grandparent involvement and common  values .

Will the values and interests of your daycare center be appealing to the families that surround it? Research is a huge part of  creating a daycare business , and it’s something you’ll want to be thorough with before fully diving in.

Develop a Mission Statement

When you think about what you aspire your daycare to be, a lot of things likely come to mind. You have big dreams after all! However, it is important to start with the basics and develop a mission statement.

This should be a relatively simple vision you have for your center that can be shared on marketing collateral and is appealing to prospective parents. Whether it’s a focus on  early childhood development  or a particular teaching philosophy you believe in, you’ll want to present your mission statement boldly and confidently.

Once you develop a mission statement, it’s time to think about your other goals and objectives. But, what’s the difference between goals and objectives?

• Goals are something that is measurable – whether it’s a certain enrollment number or how much revenue you bring in after year one.
• Objectives are a little less numerical – they can be the values you hope to instill into your center like teaching children life sills like effective communication, how to share, and creating a nurturing environment.

Creating a clear mission statement and supporting goals and objectives is key to setting yourself up for success. Whenever you feel overwhelmed or unsure of the direction of your daycare center, check back in with your mission statement, goals and objectives to ground yourself

Look at Your Financials

Financials may not be the most fun part of starting a daycare business, but they are certainly important. While you may have the passion and expertise needed to fuel a new business, without the right financial standing, it’s hard to turn your dreams into a reality.

A common question you may ask yourself is,  “How much does it cost to start a daycare?”  While the number will certainly vary wildly depending on the area you live in and whether you are acquiring an already owned building or starting from scratch, experts say it will cost you anywhere from  $10,000 to $50,000.  Think about whether it’s realistic to start your daycare now or continue saving up until you’re ready – it’s a big investment!

For those who are just starting out and may not have that much financial experience,  daycare software  can be a huge help. It helps simplify paying your bills, easily track expenses, and handle budgeting – all from a single platform.

Use daycare software to maintain a record of your expense categories like classroom supplies, maintenance, utilities, and rent, and ensure that nothing gets lost and you’re always on budget. One expense gone wrong can have a huge impact on a new business, so keeping your data and information all in one place is highly recommended.

Develop Policies & Procedures

A successful business plan needs information about the daycare center’s policies and procedures. Policies and procedures are the foundation of a new business, and they are something you’ll want parents to have a firm understanding of.

To start with, think about developing a  payment policy . This will entail things like how to handle late payments, billing schedules, and more.

It’s also important to take note of any licensing requirements for staff ratios and teachers’ educational backgrounds. Child care staff are subject to fingerprinting and background checks, so be sure to verify references and education levels.

Learn About Insurance

Insurance is a requirement for opening a licensed child care facility, and having it is essential for protecting both your business and your personal assets. While understanding insurance may not come naturally to everyone, there are a lot of resources on the internet and professionals willing to help.

Talk with a licensed insurance agent who’s familiar with local requirements to review your needs and recommend coverage terms and policies. And, if you plan on offering healthcare benefits to your employees, you’ll want to meet with a healthcare provider who can help with developing a plan.

Create a Marketing Plan

Here comes the fun part. What’s going to make your daycare center stand out among the competition? How are you going to get your name out into the community?

Start by deciding how you’ll raise awareness among potential customers. Maybe it’s participating in family-friendly community events in the area or listing your school in a local directory. You can even think about running a social media campaign to build awareness and reach new parents.

And as far as differentiating yourself from other daycares, consider implementing  Procare’s all-in-one daycare solution  designed to help manage your daycare and stay connected with parents.

For modern parents who are on the go, joining a daycare with a tech-savvy management system in place can be incredibly appealing. With the ability to  make payments online , digitally check in/check out, and read about updates on their child throughout the day, this kind of software will definitely give you a leg up.

Final Thoughts

Creating a business plan for your daycare center is a lot of hard work, but it can also be exciting. You are at the beginning stage of making your dreams a reality and by organizing your ideas, policies, marketing plans, and more in a logical document, you are setting yourself up for success – and for a lot of future happy parents and children.

Ready for next steps? Learn more about how to successfully start a daycare .

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Keeping a group of toddlers occupied and writing a strong business plan may be very different tasks, but both take patience, time, and coordinating a few moving pieces.

You bring the child care skills, this guide will help out with the other one, outlining the five key areas to include in an effective child care business plan.

From financial projections to local business marketing strategies , here are the most important sections of a successful daycare business plan.

1. Executive summary

Your childcare business plan will be as functional to your business as a shelf stocked with Curious George. Not only is it an essential document if you’re raising funds for your business, but it’s also a helpful way to organize your thoughts and plans for yourself and to share them with employees.

Start every business plan with a summary to hook whoever’s reading it to learn more about your company and your proposal. Think of it a little like a sales pitch for your business and a preview of everything you lay out inside. Be sure to include:

Contact information – Include your name, number, address, email, and any other relevant contact information so potential partners know how to get in touch.

Business concept – Whether a one-person babysitting service or a 24/7 child care facility, include key details of your business, including staff size, services, a summary of general operations, and the required operating licenses you have or plan to get.

Business structure – List owners, partners, managers, and employees, and explain the structure of your business and how it will run. This should also include your target demographic and basic marketing plans.

Mission – Share your reason for starting a childcare business. For Matt and Anne Evers , owners of the Primrose School of Atascocita in Kingwood, TX, their business is personal: “Since both of our children attend the school it is very easy for us to ask ourselves when making daily decisions, ‘What’s the best choice for the child? What will result in the best outcome for [them]?’”

Keep the executive summary to one or two pages. You’ll have the space to dive deeper into the details of your childcare business in the following sections.

2. Location details

Child care is a local business, which means location, community needs, and demographics are all key in planning your grand opening.

Your business location will likely fall into one of two categories of childcare businesses:

Inside your home – Operating within your home can mean less overhead costs, fewer rental expenses, and more flexibility. To comply with local and state safety regulations, you may be required to renovate or change portions of your home. 

Outside your home – Factor in rent, utilities, and any necessary repairs to the property. Whether renting in a residential neighborhood or purchasing a commercial property, summarize your general knowledge of the building and neighborhood, plus why you plan to operate there in this section.

Since your location is important to your childcare business, include insurance costs, relevant zoning laws, neighborhood information, and applicable details on kitchen and bathroom facilities.

3. Financial layout

An effective business plan will share both a compelling narrative for your idea and the steps you’ll take to make it a success. Your financial planning section should be well-researched with estimates for costs, the funding you’re seeking, and projected growth over the next three or more years. While this section is necessary for investors and partners, it will also give you a working plan to help your childcare business run smoothly and make a profit.

When fleshing out the financial section of your business plan, include details like:

Tax plan – Share your business’s legal structure — commonly C or S corporation, general or limited partnership, sole proprietor, or limited liability company — to plan for taxes.

Insurance – Assess risk, liability, protection, and coverage options to ensure you’ve covered all the necessary bases. 

Budget – Include both costs and projected profit for your child care business accounting for personnel, equipment, supplies, professional fees, and other expenses. Include monthly and annual budgets, as well as a cash-flow forecast.

Detail your plans for fluctuations, which is common for childcare businesses. Take it from Danielle Burns, director of Lil’ Red Barn Academy in Washington whose business experienced an influx of children in the summer of 2021, despite the summer typically being a slower time.

If you run into questions with the financial section of your business plan, consider tapping an accountant for help, especially if they have advised other local businesses in your area.

4. Marketing plan

It’s almost time to spread the word about your services. Building a marketing plan as a neighborhood business is more than catchy slogans and photos of cute kids. In this section, show your understanding of your local market and how your business will support it.

When developing your marketing plan, include:

Market analysis – Summarize the state of childcare in your area: Will you be one of five daycares on the block, or are you opening up within a community that’s lacking in childcare options? Consider neighborhood trends, your competition, and the average cost of child care in your neighborhood. Include information on your target clientele and how you’ll meet their needs to show your business’s potential.

Business niche – Whether you’re focused on a specific age group or specializing in evening care, explain where you fit into the overall childcare industry and how any unique services will distinguish you from the competition.

The 5 P’s: Price, product, promotion, place, and people – You’ll want to make sure you’re offering the right prices and products to the right people in the most effective way possible. Analyze market and demographic data for marketing or advertising plans for your childcare business to reach the right clients for your business.

Start with a free business page on Nextdoor . Set one up for your local business in minutes to instantly unlock a following of your most valuable customers: neighbors. Show up in local searches when neighbors look for childcare options near them, share updates as you open and grow, and build trust in your business with recommendations.  

5. Daily operations

The details of your day-to-day operations are just as important as the big picture ideas and long-term goals you’re setting. Use this section for the details of your services, including information on:

Personnel – List your team along with the goals and responsibilities of each of their roles. Share details of your hiring practices and staff policies, from sick leave to the termination process. 

Structure – Include a schedule for what a typical day at your daycare looks like highlighting what makes your business unique: lunch or nutrition plans, classes and other organized activities, playtime, exercise, and storytime.

Parental policies – The two most important details with parents are how you plan to keep them informed, and what your policies are. Pick-up and drop-off requirements, what happens if they’re late for pick-up, behavioral issues — build an action plan to set expectations when they first enroll their children.

Emergency plans – Include fire escape plans, medical protocol, and other possible contingency plans as part of your daily operational details.

Build a community with Nextdoor

The building blocks of a successful childcare service start with a comprehensive business plan. From there, your business will rely on your local community and how you’re able to meet the needs of the families in your neighborhood to thrive. 

With one in three U.S. households on Nextdoor , neighbors use the app every day to get things done, connect with everyone and everything nearby, and pass along local recommendations. With 50,000 shared each week, make the next recommendation for your child care services with a free business page and a plan to reach local families who need them.

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From Vision to Reality: Developing a Winning Business Plan for Your Daycare Business

Developing a winning business plan for your daycare business is essential. You must research, gather data, and consult with experts, such as childcare industry professionals, to ensure your business plan’s accuracy and feasibility. A comprehensive and well-thought-out business plan guides your operations and is a crucial tool when seeking funding or support from potential investors, lenders, or grant providers. Here are some key elements and steps to consider:

• Executive Summary: Provide a concise overview of your daycare center, including its mission, vision, target market, and unique selling points.
• Business Description: Describe the type of daycare center you plan to operate (e.g., infant care, preschool, after-school care) and explain the services you will offer.
• Market Analysis: Conduct thorough research on the local market, including demographics, competition, and demand for childcare services. Identify your target market and outline strategies to attract and retain clients.
• Organizational Structure: Define the legal structure of your daycare center (sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation) and outline the roles and responsibilities of key personnel, including management, teachers, and support staff.
• Services and Programs: Detail the range of services and programs you will provide, such as educational curriculum, age-appropriate activities, meals, and any additional offerings (e.g., transportation, extended hours).
• Marketing and Sales Strategy: Outline your marketing and advertising strategies to reach your target audience. Include a pricing strategy, promotional activities, and plans for building partnerships with local businesses or organizations.
• Operational Plan: Describe the physical space requirements, facilities, and equipment needed to operate your daycare center. Outline daily operations, staffing ratios, schedules, health and safety protocols, and any licensing or regulatory compliance considerations.
• Financial Projections: Create a comprehensive financial plan, including projected income and expenses, start-up costs, pricing structure, and anticipated profitability. Include a break-even analysis and cash flow projections.
• Risk Assessment: Identify potential risks and challenges that may affect your daycare center’s success. Develop contingency plans and strategies to mitigate these risks, such as staff turnover, low enrollment, or changes in regulations.
• Implementation Timeline: Create a timeline with key milestones for launching and operating your daycare center. Set realistic deadlines for tasks, such as securing licensing, hiring staff, and marketing initiatives.
• Evaluation and Monitoring: Develop a plan to assess and monitor the performance of your daycare center. Include strategies for collecting feedback from parents, conducting staff evaluations, and reviewing financial performance regularly.

If you enjoyed this article on developing a business plan comment below.  If you would like to connect, join me on Facebook:  Childcare Daily with Charlie Nicole

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How to Write a Business Plan for Starting a Day Care Center

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How to Write a Business Plan for a Salon

What are the key elements of a business plan, how to pitch a business plan.

• How to Write a Business Plan for Starting a Medical Spa Practice
• How to Write a Business Plan for Indoor Party Centers

Writing a business plan for starting a day care center will serve a few different purposes. First, a business plan may help you organize your ideas for launching your business by identifying the steps you need for business start-up. A day care center business plan will also help you stay on track after you've launched your business and as you move toward meeting your goals. A business plan isn't necessarily set in stone, however, and you can adjust it periodically as your business grows or your plans change.

In addition, a business plan demonstrates you have carefully thought through the operations of your daycare business; it can be used to show lenders why they should help you finance your business.

Create Your Company Description

Create a general overview of your day care business plans. Write a brief summary of your goals and include why you think starting a day care business is a good idea. Include a description of your own experience and qualifications as well as your expectations for staff.

Provide A Market Analysis

Include an analysis of the day care center industry. List information about day care industry tends and estimate day care industry revenue. Include information about the needs of your target market and how its day care needs are currently being addressed. Include information about how you will position your day care center business for success despite the competition.

Detail Your Marketing Plan

Include details about plans for pricing and advertising your business. Plan how you will communicate your day care business' benefits to your target market.

Outline Your Organization and Management

Describe the legal structure you will choose for your business. For example, if you will be the sole owner of the day care center, you may start a sole proprietorship. If you will have a partner, however, you will have to form a partnership. You may even choose to establish your business as a separate entity from yourself by forming a corporation.

Add information about managing your business. Include details about hiring and training employees. Make sure to cover the legal necessities of a daycare business, such as site safety, emergency care, staff qualifications, and other requirements in your area.

Lay Out Your Finances

Your plan should include a statement of how the business will run financially. That is, what you anticipate as your start-up and operational costs and the type of income you anticipate from the daycare's clients or from other sources of funding such as grants, donations or community assistance.

Make Your Funding Request

Determine what you will need in terms of financial assistance to get your business off the ground. Include a description of the location you've chosen for your day care center, and the equipment and furnishings you will need.

Lenders will want to review your day care business plan if you apply for a loan. Use your business plan to demonstrate how your business will stand out among your competitors, why you should run it and why now is the right time to start a day care center.

• Entrepreneur: Elements of a Business Plan
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• Lenders may review your day care business plan if you apply for a loan. Use your business plan to demonstrate how your business will stand out among your competitors, why you should run it and why now is the right time to start a day care center.

Jordan Meyers has been a writer for 13 years, specializing in businesses, educational and health topics. Meyers holds a Bachelor of Science in biology from the University of Maryland and once survived writing 500 health product descriptions in just 24 hours.

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Raising Tomorrow: The Strategic Business Plan for Your Daycare Center

Daycare centers play an important role in providing working parents with a safe and caring environment for their children in today’s fast-paced society. However, to ensure viability and long-term sustainability, the construction and operation of a daycare facility require meticulous planning. One of the most effective ways to achieve this aim is to create a comprehensive business plan that includes a variety of key features.

This article digs into the fundamental components of a thorough business plan for opening a daycare facility, emphasizing how this strategic document lays the road for a thriving and sustainable childcare operation.

Table of Contents

Market Research: A Foundation for Growth

Operators can acquire priceless insights regarding the optimal geographical nexus for the center through a complicated process of meticulous investigation, thereby enhancing accessibility and convenience for parents. This empirical approach reveals the specific programmatic features that hold the possibility of increased appeal, guaranteeing that the center’s offers are meticulously matched to the local populace’s goals. This analytical journey also results in the identification of pricing paradigms that resonate with potential customers.

Facility Setup: Creating a Safe and Stimulating Environment

The construction of a safe and exciting atmosphere that encourages exploration while guaranteeing parents their children’s well-being beckons. The parameters of safety and cleanliness are meticulously integrated into the architectural fabric, allowing for unbroken interaction and development.

Staffing: Nurturing with Competence and Care

A daycare center’s spirit is found in the mosaic of its workers. The recruitment and retention of skilled and compassionate caregivers are critical components in creating a nurturing environment. A thorough exposition of the recruitment trip unfolds within the framework of the company strategy, an expedition precisely planned to describe the contours of staff-to-child ratios, immersion training regimens, and strategies for cultivating long-lasting staff ties.

This fabric of care is intricately woven with threads of understanding child psychology, expertly navigating the maze of health and safety rules, and refining the art of nuanced communication with both the patients and their families. This specific knowledge pervades the daycare center’s culture, leaving an enduring stamp on its reputation and trajectory.

Read more about The Childcare Advantage: Online Training Courses for Skill Enhancement

Safety Measures: Prioritizing Child Well-Being

The elements of security extend beyond the physical environment. Background checks for staff members raise the bar of trust, ensuring that the caregivers’ values coincide with the center’s unshakable dedication to children’s well-being. Procedures that govern entrance to the institution reverberate as a vital aspect of this orchestration, establishing virtual sentinels to protect the facility’s young occupants.

Curriculum: Fostering Holistic Development

The scaffolding of a properly crafted curriculum is critical in creating a daycare center’s legitimacy and efficacy. This fundamental feature resonates not only within the educational sanctuary but also throughout the heart of the business plan, demonstrating the center’s commitment to holistic development. The contours of the educational method are masterfully etched inside this strategic plan, intertwining flawlessly with elucidations of learning objectives and a plethora of age-appropriate activities positioned to energize cognitive, physical, social, and emotional growth.

This curriculum’s fabric goes beyond basic learning; it serves as the framework for championing children’s developmental milestones. The commitment to a well-rounded educational experience becomes an anthem as the business plan grows, resonating with parents and echoing the daycare center’s mission to nurturing not only information but the flowering of well-rounded individuals.

Pricing Strategies: Balancing Affordability and Qualit

The demarcation of many payment plans, each organized to resonate with the varying requirements and preferences of parents, enriches the narrative of the business plan. Potential discounts, carefully stated in the strategy, add a harmonious cadence to this pricing symphony, presenting pathways that recognize not only economic considerations but also loyalty and referrals.

Transparent pricing, as illuminated in the story of the business plan, becomes the prism through which parents see the tangible value inherent within the services delivered. This transparency grows into a foundation of trust, on which parents may be confident of the center’s unwavering dedication to their child’s overall well-being and developmental journey.

Marketing Efforts: Building a Strong Presence

This strategic dance shines through in the company plan’s blueprint, as the story pulsates with the demarcation of marketing techniques that transcend the limitations of physical presence. Online platforms are expertly manipulated, resonating as portals that draw parents from the digital domain into the core of the center’s offerings. At the same time, the alchemy of offline channels intertwines with the harmony, throwing a broader net that snags individuals who thrive on real contacts.

Financial Planning: Securing Long-Term Viability

The complicated dance of effective financial planning serves as the foundation for a daycare center’s long-term viability. This dance emerges as a strategic narrative within the pages of the business plan, interweaving the strands of comprehensive financial forecasts that cover the spectrum from inception to fruition. The prelude includes startup costs in this symphony, the conductor conducts the orchestra of operational expenses, revenue predictions sing their lovely songs, and the painful harmony of break-even analysis paints the canvas of fiscal viability.

This collection of financial projections transcends numbers; it serves as a beacon guiding the center through the maze of fiscal maneuvering. These predictions, which are outlined in the business plan, have a dual purpose: they illuminate the way to acquiring the critical first money required for launch, and they serve as a compass that leads the ship of cash flow management to safer financial shores.

Regulatory Compliance: Navigating Legal Frameworks

A symphony of operation resonates musically with a critical chorus of rules aimed to guarantee children’s safety and well-being within the sphere of daycare centers. The business strategy serves as the libretto, carefully detailing the center’s overture to comply with this regulatory orchestration. The choreography of compliance with licensing, health, and safety regulations, organized by local and national authorities, is exquisitely revealed inside its pages.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the importance of market research in a daycare center business plan.

Market research assists daycare center operators in understanding local childcare demand, identifying their target audience, and assessing the competitive landscape. This data-driven approach drives decisions about location, program offerings, and pricing, ensuring that the center’s long-term performance is aligned with community needs.

How can a business plan for a daycare center ensure regulatory compliance?

Regulatory compliance is critical for the legal and ethical operations of a daycare center. A thorough business strategy should include measures for adhering to licensing, health, and safety regulations imposed by local and national authorities. Compliance commitment not only protects the center’s legality but also creates trust between parents and the community.

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That’s why I created Daycare Business Boss: I want to help childcare business owners like you build a thriving business that brings you endless joy and supports your ideal lifestyle.

Estate Planning for Retirement Years

Estate planning for retirement years involves a multifaceted approach to secure a financial future. It begins with understanding your estate assets, including tangible and intangible properties, and conducting an accurate valuation. Advance healthcare directives, such as living wills and powers of attorney, guarantee autonomy in medical decision-making. Wills and trusts are vital for distributing assets according to your wishes, minimizing probate costs and taxes. Effective powers of attorney and legacy planning strategies safeguard your wealth and values. As you plan for your golden years, understanding these components is vital for a sustainable and peaceful retirement. Further exploration of these concepts will reveal a more detailed understanding of estate planning for a secure retirement.

Table of Contents

Understanding Your Estate Assets

Your estate assets comprise an extensive array of tangible and intangible properties, including real estate, investments, business interests, and personal belongings, which collectively form the foundation of your financial legacy. A thorough understanding of these assets is necessary for effective estate planning. Conducting an estate valuation is a pivotal step in this process, as it provides an accurate assessment of the current value of your assets. This valuation serves as a baseline for making informed decisions about the distribution of your estate.

Creating an asset inventory is another important step in understanding your estate assets. This involves cataloging and describing each asset, including its value, location, and any relevant documentation. A meticulous asset inventory enables you to identify potential issues, such as outdated beneficiary designations or missing documents, and take corrective action. By combining estate valuation and asset inventory, you can gain a clear and detailed picture of your estate, enabling you to make informed decisions about its management and distribution. This foundation is fundamental for creating a well-rounded estate plan that reflects your goals and objectives.

Importance of Advance Directives

In the domain of estate planning, advance directives play a crucial role in guaranteeing that an individual's healthcare wishes are respected in the event of incapacitation. By establishing clear guidelines for healthcare decision-making, individuals can maintain control over their medical treatment and alleviate the burden on loved ones. Through the preparation of legal documents, such as living wills and healthcare proxies, individuals can safeguard their autonomy and see that their wishes are carried out.

Healthcare Decision Guidelines

Establishing healthcare decision guidelines through advance directives is crucial for ensuring that an individual's medical preferences are respected, even when they are no longer able to communicate their wishes. In the absence of advance directives, family members and healthcare providers may be left to make difficult decisions on their behalf, which can lead to confusion, conflict, and potentially even legal disputes.

Having a clear set of healthcare decision guidelines in place can help alleviate these concerns by:

• Providing medical advocacy and care navigation, ensuring that an individual's needs are met and their preferences are respected
• Identifying a trusted decision-maker, such as a healthcare proxy, to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated
• Outlining specific treatment preferences, including end-of-life care and life-sustaining interventions, to guide healthcare providers in making informed decisions that are vital

Legal Document Preparation

More than 70% of Americans lack the necessary legal documents to guarantee their healthcare wishes are respected, highlighting the critical importance of advance directives in legal document preparation. Advance directives, including living wills and healthcare powers of attorney, ensure that individuals' healthcare preferences are upheld even if they become incapacitated. Effective legal document preparation involves more than just creating these documents; it also requires proper document organization and storage. This includes keeping originals in a secure location, providing copies to relevant parties, and updating documents as circumstances change.

Utilizing legal templates can simplify the document preparation process, ensuring that all necessary elements are included. However, it is essential to consult with an attorney or experienced estate planning professional to guarantee that documents comply with state laws and accurately reflect individual wishes. By prioritizing advance directives and legal document preparation, retirees can rest assured that their healthcare decisions will be respected, even in the face of uncertainty. Ultimately, thorough legal document preparation is a critical component of comprehensive estate planning, providing peace of mind for individuals and their loved ones.

Wills and Probate Process

When it comes to estate planning, having a valid will and understanding the probate process are essential components. Probate laws vary by state, and it is crucial to be aware of the specific regulations that apply to your estate. By creating a legally binding will and understanding the probate process, individuals can ensure that their wishes are carried out and their loved ones are protected.

Understanding Probate Laws

In the event of a person's passing, their assets are distributed according to the probate laws of their state of residence, which can be a lengthy and complex process without proper planning. Understanding probate laws is essential to ensure a smooth transition of assets to beneficiaries. Probate history shows that the process has evolved over time, with probate reform efforts aimed at simplifying and expediting the process.

Probate laws vary by state, but generally involve:

• Filing a petition with the probate court to appoint an executor or personal representative
• Inventorying and valuing the estate's assets
• Paying debts, taxes, and expenses
• Distributing remaining assets according to the will or state intestacy laws

It is crucial to understand the probate laws in your state of residence to minimize delays and costs. By planning ahead, individuals can avoid probate altogether or reduce its complexity. This can be achieved through strategies such as creating trusts, naming beneficiaries for certain assets, and ensuring that all assets are properly titled.

Writing a Valid Will

A valid will is a legally binding document that explicitly outlines an individual's wishes for the distribution of their assets, guardianship of minor children, and other vital decisions after their passing. It is vital to verify that the will is written and executed in accordance with the laws of the jurisdiction, as an invalid will can lead to costly and time-consuming legal battles. When writing a valid will, it is imperative to take into account family dynamics, bearing in mind the relationships and potential conflicts that may arise among beneficiaries. It is also recommended to store the will in a secure and accessible location, such as a fireproof safe or a digital storage platform, to guarantee that it can be easily retrieved when needed. Additionally, it is advisable to review and update the will periodically to reflect changes in personal circumstances, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child. By taking these steps, individuals can safeguard that their wishes are respected and their loved ones are protected.

Trusts for Retirement Security

More than 70% of Americans rely on retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s and IRAs, to fund their golden years, which is why incorporating trusts into estate planning strategies has become increasingly essential for securing a comfortable retirement.

Trusts can play a pivotal role in ensuring retirement funding by providing tax efficiency and protecting assets from creditors. These benefits of using trusts for retirement security include:

• Retirement Funding : Trusts can be designed to distribute retirement funds in a tax-efficient manner, minimizing the tax burden on beneficiaries and ensuring they receive the maximum amount possible.
• Tax Efficiency : By leveraging trusts, individuals can reduce their taxable estate, resulting in lower tax liabilities and preserving more of their hard-earned retirement savings.
• Asset Protection : Trusts can shield retirement assets from creditors, lawsuits, and other potential threats, providing an added layer of security and peace of mind.

Powers of Attorney Explained

Having a thorough estate plan in place is imperative, and one fundamental component of this plan is the power of attorney, a legal document that grants authority to another person to make decisions on your behalf when you become incapacitated. This can be a result of illness, injury, or cognitive decline, rendering you unable to manage your financial capacity. A power of attorney can alleviate concerns about who will make decisions regarding your assets, healthcare, and personal welfare when you are no longer able to do so.

There are different types of powers of attorney, including durable, springing, and limited powers of attorney. It is necessary to understand the nuances of each type to confirm the appointed agent has the necessary authority to act on your behalf. It is also important to select a trustworthy and competent agent, such as a family member, friend, or professional advisor. Additionally, it is necessary to weigh the potential attorney fees associated with creating and executing a power of attorney. By having a thorough power of attorney in place, you can rest assured that your affairs will be managed according to your wishes, even when you are no longer able to make decisions for yourself.

Managing Long-Term Care Costs

Long-term care costs can be financially debilitating, especially when unexpected, and proactive planning is crucial to mitigating their impact on your estate and loved ones. Without proper planning, these costs can quickly deplete your savings and transfer the burden to your family members.

To effectively manage long-term care costs, it's essential to consider the following:

• Assessing Caregiver Support : Evaluate the level of care required and explore available caregiver support options, including home care, assisted living, and adult day care.
• Financial Projections : Estimate the potential costs of long-term care and factor them into your retirement budget, ensuring you have a sustainable plan in place.
• Insurance and Funding Options : Research and explore long-term care insurance, veterans' benefits, and other funding options to help cover the costs of care.

Legacy and Inheritance Planning

Crafting a thoughtful legacy and inheritance plan safeguards that your hard-earned assets are distributed according to your wishes, while also minimizing potential conflicts and taxes. This vital aspect of estate planning certifies that your family legacy endures for generations to come. A well-structured plan facilitates wealth transfer, allowing you to pass on your values, traditions, and assets to your loved ones.

| Protect Wealth | Implement strategies to shield assets from creditors, lawsuits, or other potential threats

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i change my beneficiary designations after retirement?.

After retirement, you can typically revise beneficiary designations for certain assets, such as life insurance policies and retirement accounts, offering retirement flexibility and allowing for post-retirement adjustments to align with changing circumstances and goals.

How Often Should I Review and Update My Estate Plan?

It is crucial to review and update your estate plan periodically, ideally every 3-5 years or when significant life changes occur, to verify alignment with evolving financial goals and to address any updates in laws or regulations.

Are Online Wills and Estate Planning Tools Legally Binding?

Online wills and estate planning tools can be legally binding, but it's vital to verify they comply with jurisdictional laws. Digital signatures and virtual witnesses may be accepted, but physical signatures and in-person witnesses are often preferred to avoid potential legal challenges.

Can My Estate Plan Protect My Assets From Creditors?

A well-structured estate plan can provide asset protection and creditor shelter through strategic use of trusts, limited liability companies, and other legal entities, safeguarding assets from creditors and minimizing financial exposure.

Do I Need an Estate Plan if I Don't Have Children?

Having no children doesn't exempt you from needing an estate plan. Consider sibling dynamics, as siblings or nieces/nephews may inherit assets. Additionally, an estate plan can fulfill charitable goals, ensuring your legacy supports causes you care about.

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