Chamber Insider Blog

Thank you to Alicia McEldon, owner of SciGenie, for sharing your story. Congratulations on being a finalist for the 30th Annual Loudoun Small Business Awards! View all finalists here and event info here.

Tell us the story of your business and how it’s evolved.

As a working mother, I found myself searching for a high-quality after-school program for my daughter. Despite the numerous options available, I was not impressed with what I encountered. I wanted a program that was not only fun but also educational, fostering a love for learning. My passion for STEM education and my experience conducting projects with my children at home inspired me to take action.

Six years ago, I founded SciGenie, starting with my daughter’s school and two Goddard schools in Loudoun County. I was pleasantly surprised by the rapid growth of the business, as we began serving several schools across Loudoun, Fairfax, and Arlington counties, as well as various private institutions. Parents appreciate our unique approach, which emphasizes hands-on projects that equip children with essential 21st-century skills while igniting their curiosity and creativity.

We are proud to have been voted “Best Summer Camp in NOVA” for five consecutive years, inspiring over 300 children at our multiple locations during the summer. Additionally, we provide STEM after-school programs in Loudoun and Fairfax counties and are honored to be a proud partner of the Girl Scouts.

What are you most proud of when it comes to your team?

I am incredibly proud of my team’s unwavering passion for our mission. Their genuine commitment to inspiring children through STEM education at an early age is truly remarkable. Their dedication not only fosters a positive learning environment but also empowers the next generation to explore and engage with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in meaningful ways.

Our educators possess not only teaching expertise but also practical experience in fields such as engineering and biochemistry, and they are deeply committed to mentoring our students.

In what ways do you give back to the Loudoun community?

Loudoun County is one of the wealthiest counties in the United States, we recognize that some families may still face financial challenges that prevent them from accessing our programs. To address this, we sponsor two children at each school where we offer our After School program, ensuring that they can participate regardless of their financial situation.

Additionally, we provide several scholarships for our Summer Camp. We firmly believe that every child should have the opportunity to engage with our Science, Robotics, and Engineering programs, and we are committed to making these valuable experiences accessible to all.

What would it mean to you and your business to win a Small Business Award?

Every day we are inspiring kids and winning the Small Business Award will inspire us to continue our mission and create engaging STEAM programs that are fun and educational. It would serve as a validation of our efforts and the positive impact we are making in the community, particularly with the children we serve.

As a small business entrepreneur, it is natural to encounter moments of doubt regarding the sustainability of our initiatives. However, this recognition would affirm our hard work and motivate both me and my team to continue striving for excellence in our mission.

Who is the one person that has influenced you the most in your career?

The person who has influenced me the most in my career is my mom. She has always encouraged me to do my best and instilled in me the belief that my environment does not define who I am. Her unwavering support and wisdom have shaped my approach to challenges and opportunities throughout my professional journey

What did you want to be when you grew up as a child?

I have always aspired to be an accountant, driven by my passion for mathematics. In my previous corporate career, I achieved the position of Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Throughout that time, I often found myself as the only female in board meetings, which highlighted the importance of encouraging young girls to pursue careers in STEM fields. It is essential for them to understand that they can excel in roles that society traditionally associates with men. This is why I am thrilled to partner with Girl Scouts, as it aligns with my commitment to empowering the next generation of female leaders.

If you’re not in the office, where can we find you/what is another passion you have?

When I’m not in the office, you can often find me traveling to new destinations or spending quality time with my family. I am also a basketball mom, attending tournaments in various cities. This allows me to support my daughter while exploring different places and creating lasting memories together.

How do you see your business evolving in the next 5 years?

In the next five years, SciGenie envisions significant growth and evolution as a franchisor. Our focus will be on expanding our franchise network, allowing us to reach more communities and provide our innovative educational services to a broader audience.

We anticipate further enhancements in our technology and lesson plans, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of educational advancements. This commitment to continuous improvement will not only elevate the quality of our offerings but also strengthen our brand recognition in the market.

As our team continues to grow, we will prioritize training and support for our franchisees, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages shared success. Ultimately, we aim to establish SciGenie as a leading name in the education sector, known for our commitment to excellence and innovation.

Learn more about SciGenie on their website!