Be sure to check here for our Wednesday Webinars!

 

2026 BUSINESS SYMPOSIUM

2026 BUSINESS SYMPOSIUM

2026 BUSINESS SYMPOSIUM

 

The Association for Early Learning Leaders (AELL) exists to support, connect, and elevate those leading early childhood education programs. Through professional development, advocacy, and community, we are committed to strengthening leadership at every level because strong leadership builds strong programs.

While many of our events focus on leadership development, the Business Symposium was created to meet a different and critical need.

Running a successful early childhood education program requires more than a passion for children and learning. It demands strong, informed business practices that support sustainability, growth, and long-term impact.

This event is intentionally designed as a focused experience for owners, directors, and administrators who are responsible for the operational and financial health of their programs.

At the Business Symposium, every session is centered on the business side of early childhood education, including:

  • Financial management and profitability
  • Enrollment strategy and retention
  • Staffing models and workforce sustainability
  • Marketing, branding, and positioning
  • Systems, operations, and organizational growth

This is not a large-scale conference. It is a more intimate, targeted environment that allows for deeper conversations, practical strategies, and meaningful connections with peers facing similar challenges.

The goal is simple: to equip early learning leaders with the tools, insights, and confidence to run thriving, sustainable programs because when programs are strong, children, families, and communities all benefit.

Dates and Location

September 25 – 26, 2027

Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort |  Pompano Beach, Florida

REGISTER HERE!

About The Event

Strengthening the Business Behind Early Childhood Education.

Registration

REGISTER HERE!

EVENT DETAILS

The Association for Early Learning Leaders (AELL) exists to support, connect, and elevate those leading early childhood education programs. Through professional development, advocacy, and community, we are committed to strengthening leadership at every level because strong leadership builds strong programs.

While many of our events focus on leadership development, the Business Symposium was created to meet a different and critical need.

Running a successful early childhood education program requires more than a passion for children and learning. It demands strong, informed business practices that support sustainability, growth, and long-term impact.

This event is intentionally designed as a focused experience for owners, directors, and administrators who are responsible for the operational and financial health of their programs.

At the Business Symposium, every session is centered on the business side of early childhood education, including:

  • Financial management and profitability
  • Enrollment strategy and retention
  • Staffing models and workforce sustainability
  • Marketing, branding, and positioning
  • Systems, operations, and organizational growth

This is not a large-scale conference. It is a more intimate, targeted environment that allows for deeper conversations, practical strategies, and meaningful connections with peers facing similar challenges.

The goal is simple: to equip early learning leaders with the tools, insights, and confidence to run thriving, sustainable programs because when programs are strong, children, families, and communities all benefit.

Who Should Attend?

This event is intentionally designed as a focused experience for owners, directors, and administrators who are responsible for the operational and financial health of their programs.

Running a successful early childhood education program requires more than a passion for children and learning. It demands strong, informed business practices that support sustainability, growth, and long-term impact.

 

CANCELLATION POLICY

All conference registration cancellations must be made in writing and sent to [email protected]. Cancellations received before May 31, 2026, are refundable minus a $75 processing fee. Cancellations received before June 30, 2026, are refundable minus a $125 processing fee. No-shows and cancellations received on or after July 1, 2026, will not be eligible for a refund.

REGISTRATION TRANSFERS: Registration is transferable (for up to one calendar year) without penalty, or funds can be applied to another posted AELL training event.

 

TimeAgenda
FRIDAY - SEPTEMBER 25
8:30 A.M. - 9:30 A.M. Registration & Check In
9:30 A.M. - 10:50 A.M.Opening General Session - Current Business Statistics in Early Education
11:00 A.M. - 12:30 P.M. Breakout Sessions
  • New Program Leaders - Financial Growth: Reading Your Numbers Like A CEO
  • Advanced Program Leaders - Enrollment On Auto Pilot: Systems that Fill Classrooms
12:30 P.M. - 1:20 P.M.Networking Luncheon
1:30 P.M. - 2:50 P.M. Breakout Sessions
  • New Program Leaders - Cost of Care: Evaluating the Profit Potential for Each Age Group
  • Advanced Program Leaders - Reducing Human Resource Liability Through Strong Risk Management Systems
3:00 P.M. - 4:30 P.M.General Session - Beth Cannon
4:30 P.M. - 5:30 P.M.Team Planning or Battery Recharge
5:30 P.M. - 6:30 P.M.Networking Happy Hour - Poolside Bar
SATURDAY - SEPTEMBER 26
9:00 A.M. - 10:20 A.M.General Session - Dr. Teri DeLucca
10:30 A.M. - 11:00 A.M.Break
11:00 A.M. - 12:30 P.M. Breakout Sessions
  • New Program Leaders - Hosting Profitable Events and Camps
  • Advanced Program Leaders - Budgeting for Accreditation & Growth: A Focus on Curriculum, Professional Development & Other Investments That Increase the Value of Your Business
12:30 P.M. - 1:20 P.M.Networking Luncheon
1:30 P.M. - 2:50 P.M. Breakout Sessions
  • New Program Leaders - Investing in Your Staff: The Savings With Retention
  • Advanced Program Leaders - Scale Up Or Scale Down. What Makes Better Financial Sense
3:00 P.M. - 4:30 P.M.Closing General Session - Closing the Back Door: Turning Around a Struggling Center

HOTEL INFORMATION

Experience a new era of coastal luxury at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach. Their recent renovation unveils refreshed guest rooms, a stunning zero-entry pool, and enhanced amenities designed for relaxation. From reimagined spaces to elevated dining, every detail reflects modern elegance. Stay within minutes of Deerfield Beach and Fort Lauderdale, just steps from shops, restaurants, the beach and Pompano Beach Pier. Embrace comfort in stylishly appointed guest rooms and suites with contemporary comforts, premium amenities, marble bathrooms and lovely ocean views. Discover a refined beachfront escape where comfort meets sophistication.

Please click here to make your reservations in our discounted room block by September 17, 2026.

  • Hotel check-in: 4:00 pm
  • Hotel check-out: 11:00 am

 

PARKING

On-Site Valet Parking Is Available 

  • Daytime Event Valet Parking – $15
  • Overnight Valet Parking – $27 (Discounted from $44 for event guests)

 

AIRPORT RECOMMENDATIONS 

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is the most convenient airport for flights and is about 18 miles/30 minutes from the hotel. Miami International Airport (MIA), is further away and about 40 miles/1 hour away from the hotel.

SEARCH ACCREDITED PROGRAMS
SEARCH VENDOR MEMBERS

Looking for a Vendor?

Association for Early Learning Leaders

The Association for Early Learning Leaders is committed to excellence in the field of early childhood care and education by promoting leadership development and enhancing program quality.

© 2020 Association for Early Learning Leaders All Right Reserved
Privacy Policy

ADDRESS

1250 S Capital of Texas Highway
Building 3 Suite 400 PMB 8279115
Austin, Texas 78746

Follow Us