We are pleased to share some exciting news about one of our members. Rachel McIntyre, Founder and CEO of Open Doors Preschools / Early Learning Group, has been named the 2026 Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year by the Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Florida Gulf Coast University—the highest entrepreneurship honor awarded by the SBDC network in Southwest Florida.
McIntyre was recognized at the SBDC at FGCU Awards Ceremony on May 6, 2026, among the region’s business and civic leaders. A mother of five and a third-generation early childhood education professional, she has dedicated her career to demonstrating that exceptional childcare, nationally recognized accreditation standards, and professional wages can successfully coexist.
The Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year Award recognizes outstanding entrepreneurial achievement, community impact, and sustained business leadership. The Florida Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University provides no-cost business consulting and training to entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout Southwest Florida.
Today, Open Doors / Early Learning Group operates five Gold Seal-accredited early childhood education centers across Southwest Florida, employing approximately 160 team members and serving nearly 1,000 children annually. The organization maintains Florida’s highest childcare quality designation, Gold Seal accreditation, at all five locations, while also holding A.P.P.L.E. and NAEYC accreditations, as well as Great Place to Work certification—an honor earned through rigorous employee feedback and workplace culture standards.
Please join us in congratulating Rachel on this well-deserved recognition and her continued impact on children, families, and the Southwest Florida community.
