Owners, Tiny Tots Preschool, Mission Viejo

For 22 years, the Arboledas had run a home-based childcare business which had served 14 children—the maximum allowed by their license. Children were on a waiting list and Patricia and Manny wanted to grow. Their dream was to open a new center offering care for infants and preschoolers. With the help of the Orange County Small Business Development Center (OCSBDC), they secured a loan of $150,000 to complete their business relocation. An economic development program of Rancho Santiago Community College District, the OCSBDC helps new small business owners launch start-up operations and enables current business owners to improve their operations.

“We have met with the SBDC a lot,” says Manny. “The center’s business consultants pushed us to tighten up our business plan and enhance our marketing efforts.”

After meeting with the SBDC loan consultant, they succeeded in obtaining a loan from the Small Business Administration. The Arboledas also worked with an OCSBDC marketing consultant on a strategic marketing plan that would further increase the center’s likelihood of success. Their center opened for business in February 2004.

“We’re on track with our business plan,” says Manny. “The Orange County SBDC constantly reminded us of the importance of details and tenacity.”

Fourteen months after they expanded Tiny Tots Preschool, they employ six teachers and the enrollment is 56 children and growing. “Parents tour the center every day,” says Manny.