Local business owner Carleen Schaan’s rent was substantially raised at her main KidsPlay Preschool location in the spring of 2023, so she searched to purchase a new space for her business in Medicine Hat.
The one she found needed renovations before she could open the doors, so her commercial banker suggested she reach out to Community Futures Entre-Corp to inquire about financial support.
She applied and received the Small Business Loan and Capital Growth Initiative for Women Entrepreneurs Loan to complete the renovations, and she opened the doors to her new space on Monday, November, 13, 2023.
“It gave me such relief knowing there was a program that supports businesses in this way. Darren and Greg were awesome to work with throughout the whole process. It was a huge unbelievable blessing that this came to be,” says Schaan.
Working in early childhood learning for 27 years, Carleen Schaan purchased and expanded KidsPlay Preschool 12 years ago, with her second location to follow at the Medicine Hat Christian School in 2020.
With her new purchase, she leveled up from renter to building owner, and the space grew from 4,000 sq. ft. to 14,000 sq. ft.
With three levels, and jungle-theme painted walls by local artist Jeff Goring, over 60 children can play, learn, and rest in the creative space.
“I’ve always loved working with kids, and it’s always been a passion of mine. Owning a preschool has been a lifelong dream,” says Schaan. “We own this building, and it couldn’t have happened without Community Futures.”
Schaan is grateful that she has a permanent spot to create an inviting and playful space for children and families, including having a stage to present concerts on, rather than finding and renting a venue.
“For anyone who is struggling with their business, keep searching out resources. I would totally recommend Community Futures to everyone. Being able to purchase a building and move forward with the renovations was really incredible,” says the new building owner.
KidsPlay Preschool can be found online at kidsplaypreschool.ca
