Local Childcare Center Secures SBA Financing to Acquire Facility

The Early Years Academy transitions from leasing to facility ownership with support from Illinois SBDC

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:55pm

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A photorealistic studio still-life featuring colorful wooden building blocks, a small chalkboard, and safety scissors arranged elegantly on a clean, white background, conceptually representing a childcare facility's transition to facility ownership.A local childcare center secures financing to acquire its own facility, strengthening long-term stability and community impact.Morrison Today

The Early Years Academy, a childcare provider in Morrison, Illinois, has successfully secured SBA financing to acquire its facility, thanks to the guidance and support of the Illinois SBDC at Sauk Valley Community College. The transition from leasing to facility ownership will strengthen the company's long-term stability and position it for future growth and expanded community impact.

Why it matters

Acquiring its own facility is a critical milestone for The Early Years Academy, allowing the business to build long-term stability and continuity. This move protects local jobs and ensures the childcare center can continue serving families in the Morrison area for years to come.

The details

Owner Jennifer 'Jenny' Humphrey worked with Justin Bergman, Director of the Illinois SBDC, to develop a comprehensive financing package that demonstrated the business's viability, strong financial management, and a clear path for completing the SBA-backed building acquisition. The SBDC provided guidance on refining the business plan, strengthening financial projections, and organizing the necessary documentation to meet lender and SBA requirements.

  • In June 2025, Jenny Humphrey began working with the Illinois SBDC.
  • In January 2026, The Early Years Academy successfully secured SBA financing to acquire its facility.

The players

The Early Years Academy

A childcare provider serving families in the Morrison, Illinois area.

Jennifer 'Jenny' Humphrey

The owner of The Early Years Academy.

Justin Bergman

The Director of the Illinois SBDC at Sauk Valley Community College, who provided guidance and support to Jenny Humphrey.

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What they’re saying

“Thank you so much for all that you have done to assist me! Your service has been a life saver! I appreciate you so much!”

— Jennifer 'Jenny' Humphrey, Owner, The Early Years Academy

What’s next

The Early Years Academy plans to celebrate the facility acquisition with a community open house in the coming months.

The takeaway

This success story highlights the crucial role that small business development centers can play in helping local entrepreneurs secure the financing and resources needed to achieve long-term stability and growth, ultimately benefiting the entire community.