First and last name:
Deanna Collarile
Company name:
Monkey See Monkey Do Childcare and Development Centres
“Tell me, and I’ll forget. Show me, and I might remember. Involve me, and I will learn.”
Website address:
www.monkeybizz.ca
Locations:
Oakville and Burlington
Please describe exactly what your business does and who you cater to
We are a childcare facility that cares for children from 15 months to the age of 10. We offer care to families that are looking for full time or part time care. Our programs are geared towards toddlers, preschoolers, Junior and Senior Kindergarten, before and after school and summer camp.
What makes your business different? What is that you do that makes your business unique?
We are an arts focused centre that offers classes in French, Yoga, Music, Salsa Tots, Sign Language, Kids at Computers and monthly offsite excursions and special visitors.
Why did you decide to start your own business? How did you get into your particular business?
I became a mother and that time came that I needed to return to work. I wanted to open up a Childcare and Development Centre for children to flourish academically, physically and socially. It was important for me to balance work and family life. I also wanted to watch my children reach their milestones and be apart of their world.
What’s the best part of being an entrepreneur?
Working for myself enables me to be more involved in my daughter’s lives. Most of all it gives our family maximum quality time together. I have the best of both worlds. There is so much more time to concentrate on life’s simple pleasures.
What’s the worst part of being and entrepreneur?
Endless hours of work go into a business when it is your own. As an owner you are the human resource department, receptionist, consultant, mediator, teacher ect…. You are truly the “BOSS”
How long have you been in business?
8 years
How did you raise the start-up cash?
Borrowed 20K unsecured line of credit the bank and a very good business plan.
Identify and discuss a few lessons you’ve learned as an entrepreneur?
It is your company and your integrity that sets you aside from any other company. Stay true to your clients, this will help you continue to build a solid foundation and a true partnership.
What advice would you give to an aspiring entrepreneur?
The sky has no limits. Nothing is impossible. Try to find a mentor that will assist you along the way. This will help minimize any costly errors. Make sure that you research your market to maximize your revenue.
What are your goals and plans for the future?
I had always planned to have three schools. This year I reached my goal and expanded yet once more. I opened my third Childcare Centre. Right now life is good.
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