West Coast Client: Karina F. Sloan, owner of Early Childhood Learning Centers
Karina F. Sloan is the founder, CEO and Chief Marketing Officer of Early Childhood Learning Centers (ECLC). Originally from Venezuela, Karina obtained a bachelor’s degree in International Management from Florida Southern College, a master’s degree in business administration from St. Leo University, and is pursuing a Doctorate in Education from Florida Southern College. In 2000, she co-founded Early Childhood Learning Centers (ECLC), a day care corporation specialized in the provision of childcare and educational services for infants, preschoolers, and children from ages two to five.
For the last eight years, ECLC has been part of the Lakeland/Polk County community. They provide innovative solutions to fulfill a need for employees, as a means to increase retention and reduce absenteeism, while providing children excellent care and the opportunity to develop their skills. The success of their current operation has been driven by the long-term and continuous support of corporate clients. Now with the full support of the Lakeland Linder International Airport, the company plans to open a new facility to serve the needs of airport employees and tenants by providing customized employer sponsored or sanctioned childcare services.
Karina identified a new location with good prospects of growth due to new corporations being established in that area and new condominiums following suit. Prospera helped with technical assistance and a business plan grant to access an SBA loan. With the expansion of ECLC, they will be able to increase the number of employees from 30 to 50 and offer their services to all the new corporate employees in the area.
Learn more about Early Childhood Learning Centers at polkids.com.
