How to open a daycare: your business plan in 5 minutes

The opening budget for a micro-nursery (12 places max) ranges from €80,000 to €300,000. Main items: PMI-standard fit-out (€30,000-100,000), furniture and educational materials (€10,000-30,000), fire and accessibility compliance (€15,000-50,000) and working capital (3-6 months of payroll).

The PSU (Prestation de Service Unique) is paid by the CAF to nursery operators. It covers 70-85% of operating costs per place. It is based on a ceiling price and minimum 70% occupancy. Families pay the remainder based on their family quotient.

In nurseries, the ratio is 1 professional per 5 non-walking children and 1 per 8 walking children. In micro-nurseries, at least 2 professionals are required at all times. At least 40% of staff must be qualified (early childhood educators, nursery nurses).

The PMI accreditation process takes 6-12 months on average. It includes: application to the Departmental Council, premises inspection by the PMI doctor, verification of safety and hygiene standards, and educational project validation.

Our business plans meet the standards required by banks and the CAF: executive summary, educational project, detailed financial forecast with PSU pricing, funding plan and PMI accreditation timeline. The final decision rests with each institution.