Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jody Figuerido, Owner of IEPD, Inc., located in Uxbridge, MA, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

The Institute for Education and Professional Development, Inc. (IEPD), established in 2005, designs and delivers internationally certified professional development opportunities for the field of early childhood and out-of-school time care and education programs, affiliated organizations, and educators. Professional development opportunities are designed to meet and are aligned with early childhood competencies for licensed programs. IEPD also provides consultation services, including coaching, child and teacher classroom observation services, and program support. IEPD is a certified woman-owned business and has been internationally accredited since January 31, 2012, through the ANSI/IACET Standard for Continuing Education and Training.

Tell us about yourself

I have dedicated my career to supporting the early childhood field. I have supported the field in many roles, including Director of an early education and care program for infants through school-age children, statewide training coordinator for the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), founder and Director of The Institute for Education and Professional Development (IEPD) at Child Development and Education, Inc., training specialist under UMASS Donahue for the EEC Central MA StrongStart PDC, college instructor, President and Board Member of the MA Association for the Education of Young Children, Board Member for Regis College, accreditation review of a new major at Bridgewater State College, participating author in the EEC Essentials online courses, and President of IEPD, Inc., accredited by ANSI/IACET and a certified Woman Owned Business.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

The biggest accomplishment as a business owner is becoming certified, both as a Woman Owned Business and Accredited by ANSI/IACET. This demonstrated the high quality of our work.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

The financial part of the business.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Build your organization based upon your vision and passion for the work, network, and access local business organizations/services such as the Chamber of Commerce and Center for Women and Enterprise.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I believe that a business can be successful if they stand out from other similar businesses. By founding the business of what you know is important, what you are passionate about and believe in, something that makes a positive difference for people and society, based upon service and doing good, you can be successful and become respected in your field.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://iepd.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iepdinc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jody-figuerido-ph-d-888a7420/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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