Startup Sunrise – Childcare Founders Q&A Recap
Posted June 5, 2024
On June 5, the garage door was opened and an energetic crowd attended the Childcare Founders edition of Startup Sunrise at Startup Sioux Falls — a monthly gathering of entrepreneurs and the community that supports them. This event provided a platform for authentic discussions, insightful Q&A, and a call to invest in children with quality education and care.
Meet the Performer & Speakers
Local Musician: Nick Burke
Nick Burke kicked off the event with a musical performance during the social start.
Aleta Lindell – Owner at Miss Jasper’s House
Aleta shared her 20-year journey from babysitter to early childhood educator and childcare business founder, starting with the bold decision to quit her job, buy a house, and a van to provide childcare.
Corri Poore – Owner at Little Tykes University
Corri began in a phone call center before shifting to childcare after the birth of his son. He started a home daycare more than 13 years ago and now has three centers open, attributing much of his success to the catalyst role of Startup Sioux Falls.
A big thank you to Angie Iverson from SDCEO East for moderating the conversation, and to Natural Grocers for providing healthy snacks!
Question and Answer
What are some of the first steps to starting a childcare business?
Aleta: I bought a house and a van, used my network, and got help with paperwork from Tara Foley of Peace Care. Licensing for the city and state was crucial.
Corri: I made a decision that this is what I wanted to do. Despite lacking knowledge in ROI, KPIs, and metrics, I avoided analysis paralysis and supported my household by jumping in. My wife has been an immense help.
How have you overcome some of your biggest challenges?
Corri: While opening my first few daycare locations was relatively easy, managing a 100-person location presented significant challenges, especially with nurturing employees and finding the right fit.
Aleta: Time management has been a significant challenge. I prefer being with the kids over handling bookwork or maintenance.
What would you say to those interested in the childcare business?
Corri: If you are good at something, pursue it without regret. Take the leap and trust that you’ll figure it out along the way.
Aleta: Childcare can change lives profoundly. Go out there and make a positive impact.
Why should people care about the childcare crisis/opportunity?
Corri: To maintain our city’s growth and support our blue-collar community, affordable childcare is essential.
Aleta: Investing in children shapes the future. We can create the world we desire by how we invest in our kids.
Invite
Join us for one of the best monthly entrepreneurial gatherings in Sioux Falls. Reserve your free seat at our next Startup Sunrise – Software Founders, scheduled for August 7, from 8–9:15 am.
Sponsors:
Boyce Law Firm, Bruce Watley (USF Entrepreneurial Studies Program), Eide Bailly, First Bank & Trust, First National Bank in Sioux Falls, First PREMIER Bank, Homegrown Capital, MarketBeat, Midwest Employee Benefits, Sanford Health Plan, SDSU Ness School of Management & Economics, Tiger29, Voyage Federal Credit Union