Portland’s premier preschool accelerator program for leaders who want to expand their operations.

Build Skills

“I was able to develop relationships with other preschool leaders and we shared challenges, solutions and tips!”

Tram Gonzales
Owner, Color Wings Preschool

Build Connections

“After completing R2G I feel I’m able to take my business to the next level.”

Lizet Molina
Owner, Children's Space

Build Confidence

“Being taught by experts and successful people in early learning was invaluable!”

Sydney Ramirez
Owner/Founder, Pequeños Exploradores

SVP Portland’s READY TO GROW program empowers early childhood education and preschool leaders with the skills and business expertise they need to foster growth and expansion within their organizations.

READY TO GROW offers instruction by subject matter experts in areas such as: Leadership, Strategy and Planning, Finance, Real Estate and Management. The seminar is conducted in-person in a friendly cohort setting to facilitate strong interaction between class participants and the instructors.

In addition, participants develop connections and relationships with fellow preschool providers and others in the community—forming invaluable connections and a strong network for the future.

Session instructors are from SVP Portland and are recognized experts in their respective fields with deep practical experience. They are ready to share their knowledge and answer your questions.

The seminar is held in 4 hour sessions every other Saturday from Aug 16th-Nov 14th (including orientation and graduation sessions). The number of participants is capped to ensure everyone receives a high quality, interactive experience.

Completion of this program will enable the participant to receive up to 16 continuing education credits from OCCD (Ready to Grow is Oregon Registry Online accredited).

Learning Modules


Overall Seminar Objectives

Participants will acquire practical strategies and actionable knowledge essential for successful preschool expansion. The program also focuses on enhancing overall organizational capacity and leadership skills. A key outcome is that each participant will develop a comprehensive business plan specifically focused on their expansion goals.

  • Discover the key traits of exceptional leaders in early childhood education and learn how to build the skills, confidence, and vision needed to guide your organization to success.

  • Ready to create a roadmap for your preschool's future success? In our Strategy module, you'll dive deep into visioning, strategic planning, and goal setting to chart a course for growth and lasting impact.

  • Gain the essential skills to master budgeting, financial forecasting, and pricing strategies. Learn how to make informed financial decisions, secure funding, and optimize your revenue streams to create a sustainable and thriving preschool.

  • Find, negotiate, and manage the perfect space for your expanding preschool! Learn how to assess location viability, understand lease terms, and optimize your space for maximum functionality and appeal.

  • Deepen your confidence in managing your people, the team environment, and the work. Learn how to assess, monitor and problem-solve so that you attract and retain top talent, build a positive workplace culture, and prioritize the well-being of your staff.

  • Learn how to use technology to your advantage to grow your business, including website development, client engagement and marketing.

Instructors

Lea Ann Grannum
Human capital executive harmonizing systems & people

Rob Aslett
President and CEO of the Silicon Integration Initiative

Doug Wells
Non-profit Finance consultant with Clifton Larson Allen

Roxanne Seaton
Creative technologist & digital strategist

Ashley Butler
Principal real-estate broker and consultant

Ursula Garcia
Seasoned HR professional & Director of Development

Ginny Gray
HR Leader and certified executive coach

Feargal Moorhead
Leadership coach and consultant

Chris Nelson
Co-Founder of Capstone Partners, commercial real-estate

Abby Dacey
Architect and founding member of Architects without Borders

Details

When

August 16 - November 14, 2025
Every other Saturday 10am-1pm.
See FAQ for exact dates.

Cost

$500 per participant. If accepted into
program, payment is due by July 18, 2025.
See FAQ for details and payment process.

Early bird discount! $350 for those who
apply on or before June 30, 2025.

Limited scholarshop opportunities
available - see FAQ for details.

Where

Community Action
17933 NW Evergreen Pkwy, Suite 315, Hillsboro, OR 97006

All sessions are in person.
No remote attendance.

Application Process

Businesses must have been in operation for 2 or more years.
Open to in-home and center-based preschools

Applications open May 30.
Deadline: July 15, 2025

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. A short phone-screen may be scheduled to determine eligibility.

Applicants notified of acceptance by July 18, 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The Ready to Grow program is designed for existing preschool businesses located in Multnomah and Washington Counties that are planning to expand.

  • Both For-Profit and Non-Profit preschool businesses are eligible. This includes in-home and center-based preschools.

  • Yes. Your preschool must have been in operation for at least 2 years and have one staff member to be eligible.

  • Yes. Ready to Grow is committed to supporting organizations led by and serving communities of color.

  • You’ll gain actionable skills in areas like:

    • Leadership

    • Strategic Planning

    • Financial Management

    • Regulatory Navigation

    • Marketing (including website tips and AI overview)

    • Community Partnerships

    • Real Estate (as it relates to expansion)

    • Organizational Management

    1. Strategic Growth: Build your organization’s capacity for expansion.

    2. Leadership Development: Grow your confidence and leadership skills.

    3. Business Skills: Get practical tools in finance, marketing, and compliance.

    4. Peer Networking: Join a cohort of ECE business owners.

    5. Expert Mentorship: Learn from experienced SVP Investor Partners and advisors.

  • Yes. Up to 16 credits for the entire program will be offered (4 credits for each module completed).  The program is Oregon Registry Online (ORO) accredited.

  • Modules include structured sessions every other week (approx. 4 hours each), with optional office hours the following week. Modules cover:

    • Leadership

    • Strategy & Planning

    • Finance

    • Real Estate

    • Management

    • Tech Stack & Marketing

  • Yes. You will develop a comprehensive Business Plan and a SWOT analysis.

  • Modules are facilitated by SVP Investor Partners, who are experienced professionals in their respective fields.

  • The standard fee is $500, with a sliding scale available from $300 to $500.  There is an early application discount of $150 for those that apply prior to July 1, 2025 (application must be received by end of day June 30, 2025).

  • Yes, a limited number of scholarships are available based on need and available space in the program. Contact Jenn at jenn@svpportland.org for details.

  • Refunds are not available, even for missed modules.

  • Yes. In addition to structured modules, you’ll have access to:

    • Open office hours

    • 1:1 consultation opportunities (final details pending)

    • Networking events

    • Program workbook

    • All facilitated sessions and learning materials

    • Food and drinks at in-person sessions

    • Program workbook

    • Optional office hours and networking support

    • (Pending) 1:1 consultation with an ECE mentor

  • Community Action
    17933 NW Evergreen Pkwy, Suite 315, Hillsboro, OR 97006

  • August 16 - Orientation
    August 30 - Module 1 (Leadership)
    September 13 - Module 2 (Strategy & Planning)
    September 27 - Module 3 (Finance)
    October 11 - Module 4 (Real Estate)
    October 25 - Module 5 (Management)
    November 8 - Module 6 (Tech Stack & Marketing)
    November 14 - Graduation

  • Applications open May 30, 2025 and close July 15, 2025.

  • Submit an online application (link to be provided). After applying, you will have a screening call and will receive confirmation as soon as possible.

  • The cohort will be limited to 18 organizations to ensure an interactive experience.

  • Payment is due by July 18. Specific payment instructions will be sent upon acceptance.

  • Graduates may have the opportunity to enter SVP’s Community Partner pipeline, providing continued access to support and collaboration.

    If you have additional questions, contact Jenn at jenn@svpportland.org.