Single mother wants to become self-employed - In demand local market, found strong possible business location?

My mother has been a single mother to one daughter, providing both mother and father role-models to me since I was born.My mother is strong-willed, independent, and has an unconditional love for working with children,She decided to go to work at a child care center where she eventually got licensed and became the head director.After 17 yrs., she now works for a local non-profit organization which provides a safe, secure, and secret place for battered women & children.She enjoys the self-fullfillment of the job but she's got a dream to own and manage her own daycare someday.She truely deserves to live out her dream but is discouraged by not knowing where to start.Being a single mother, the expenses are way out of her leauge.I want to help her dream come true to show her how much I love and thank her for everything she has done for our family.We have found a strong possible location, but I need a help getting my mom motivated and headed in the right direction to make her dream come true

I have been a small business owner for 19 years. So, when I give advice, I normally have "been there, done that".

First, being a female there are lots of opportunities for not only government loans to help you through this whole process, but there are grants as well. You may also qualify for some aid from your state and local city government as well. Many cities offer low interest rate loans (especially to minority or female owned businesses) if you are trying to establish a business within the city limits. Don't take "no, we don't offer anything like that" for an answer. Be sure you are talking to the right person. Do not discuss these matters with a non-informed, government employee that is just answering the phone.

Lastly, set up a meeting with your local s.c.o.r.e. organization. These are retired business people that will meet with you to guide you through setting up and running your business. These people are retired business owners and executives that volunteer their time to help other people of owning a business become a reality. Here is their website to find your local chapter (or one near you): http://www.score.org/

I hope this helps! This is a fun and exciting time. Your Mom has the experience, now you just need to give her the tools to make it happen.

Good luck!