For Carla Grant and Max Dennison, childcare is about more than just providing a safe place for children during the day; it’s a way to educate young minds and open doors to futures in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM).
Carla and Max have always been passionate about working with children and promoting STEAM education. After graduating from Point Park University with an undergraduate degree in political science and a master’s degree in education, Max has worked with students of all ages, from elementary to high school.
Max has always prioritized STEAM in his teaching roles. He currently serves as the Executive Director of Beta Builders, a high school coding program for Pittsburgh Public Schools, and as a program manager for All-Star Code, a summer program focused on enhancing computer science skills in young black men.
Together, Carla and Max found the perfect location in Penn Hills to combine their love for STEAM education with their desire to support children and families, launching a childcare business centered around STEAM-based learning. They aptly named their business Prep and Tech Childcare.
When they needed additional financing to start the business, Carla and Max connected with Denise Graham-Shealey of the Neighborhood Community Development Fund (NCDF). Through her, they learned about Entrepreneur Fridays, a program held at the University of Pittsburgh’s Community Engagement Center in Homewood.
At an Entrepreneur Friday event, Carla and Max met Jonny Gamble, a Management Consultant with the University of Pittsburgh’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC). With Jonny’s guidance and support from the Pitt SBDC team, they completed their business plan, secured financing, and were approved for a loan along with a line of credit.
Since opening on June 10th, Prep and Tech Childcare has quickly filled many of its available spots and continues to grow as more families enroll their children.