As the number of working parents grows the number of children who need quality childcare grows along with it. That need is creating a tremendous entrepreneurial opportunity for people who love children and want to build a business caring for them. This guide has the latest trends, facts, and figures, along with an updated list of resources to help you create a stable and enriching environment for child development, as well as a sound and profitable business.

Learn how to:
Choose the type of child care program and services to offer
Acquire the right licensing, permits, insurance protection, and state-specific child care licensing
Analyze the market, asses the needs of the community, and match services to fit those needs
Find the right location, or decide to operate from home
Comply with safety regulations and child-care provisions of the Disabilities Act
Consider zoning laws, space requirements, and legal determinations of offsite properties
Calculate startup costs, get funded, manage finances, create a business plan, and account for the day-to-day operating costs
Stay competitive in the market with low-cost marketing tactics
Find, hire, and keep good employees