Business Planning for Nature Preschools

Course Overview

Starting a nature-based early childhood program requires business savvy and financial planning. This course will address the nitty-gritty planning necessary to get a program up and running. We’ll focus on the creation of business plans, including: simple market analyses, promotion, site and facility needs, staffing requirements and options, the crucial income and expense projections, fundraising options and basic risk management issues. Participants will draft a three-year budget for their operation, rough out a promotional flyer and/or website, and prepare and practice persuasive verbal descriptions and “sales pitches” for their school. We’ll allocate plenty of time to share your own experiences and ideas, and will take a close look at existing models that have proven successful in the United States.

Course Materials: Students should contact the course instructor and review the course syllabus for information related to course materials/texts.