Franchise Deep Dive: Ivybrook Academy's Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

LAST UPDATED: July 27, 2023
FRANCHISE WEBSITE: https://www.ivybrookacademy.com/franchise-opportunities/
NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 77+
REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $400,000 to $630,000
REPORTED ROI (Item 19): N/A

Ivybrook Academy is an award-winning preschool and child education franchise. The brand was founded in 2007 outside Charlotte, North Carolina by partners Drew and Jennifer McWilliams. The pair established Ivybrook Academy after recognizing the absence of multidimensional learning opportunities for younger students.

Ivybrook Academy takes a progressive approach to preschool and encourages critical and creative thinking, and claims to foster a love for learning. The brand offers education programs for toddlers, children ages two through five, and kindergarten levels.

How Many Ivybrook Academy Locations Are There?

As of July 2023, Ivybrook Academy has more than 77 locations open or in development across 17 states.

The brand is currently offering franchise opportunities across the country and is targeting markets such as Orlando and Tampa, Florida; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Knoxville, Tennessee; Indianapolis, Indiana; Kansas City and St. Louis, Missouri; Lexington, Kentucky; and South Lebanon and Mason, Ohio.

What Is Ivybrook Academy’s Business Model?

Ivybrook Academy’s business model is focused on providing young children with critical thinking opportunities and advanced learning comprehension. The brand has managed to distinguish itself from typical daycares and can appeal to prospective franchisees through several key benefits:

• Steady Daytime Hours

The academy operates from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., providing consistent and reliable hours for parents and caregivers.

• No Transportation or Lunch Services

Ivybrook Academy does not offer transportation or busing for children, and lunch is not provided, which streamlines operations.

• Professional Teachers

The brand employs teachers with four-year teaching degrees, ensuring a high standard of education and care for the children.

• Limited Workdays

The facilities are closed for about 32 workdays each year, offering staff and families designated time off.

• Summer Hour Closure

During summer hours, the facility closes by noon, accommodating seasonal needs while maintaining quality services.

Additionally, Ivybrook Academy claims to operate in a recession-resistant industry, as it believes high-quality preschool programs are essential for a child’s development. For interested parties, the brand also offers multiple revenue streams, including tuition, registration fees, summer camp weekly fees and summer camp registration fees. Franchisees also have the freedom to set their own tuition prices.

How Much Can Ivybrook Academy Franchise Owners Make?

Ivybrook Academy does not have a publicly available Item 19. To learn more, contact the team about reading the Franchise Disclosure Document, which will state the total earnings of any company or franchise-owned unit as a reference.

How Much Does It Cost to Open an Ivybrook Academy Franchise?

The total investment necessary to begin the operation of an Ivybrook Academy franchise ranges from $400,000 to $630,000. Interested parties must also have at least $250,000 in liquid assets and a net worth of $1 million.

Those fees are broken down into the following costs:

• Initial Franchise Fee: $50,000
• Training and Opening Support Fee: $10,000
• Real Estate and Facility Coordination Fee: $10,000
• Construction, Leasehold Improvements: $173,000 to $340,000
• Furniture, Fixtures, Classroom Equipment: $66,000 to $77,000
• Outdoor Classroom (playground equipment): $8,000 to $17,000
• Signage (interior and exterior): $6,000 to $10,000
• Computer Hardware and Software: $1,500 to $3,000
• Rent Deposit: $15,000 to $20,000
• Utility Deposits: $1,000 to $2,500
• Insurance Deposits and Premiums: $2,000 to $3,500
• Pre-opening Travel Expense: $400 to $2,000
• Grand Opening Advertising: $20,000 to $25,000
• Professional Fees: $17,000 to $29,000
• Business Permits and Licenses: $100 to $1,000
• Reserves — Three Months: $20,000 to $30,000

What Is the Franchise Fee for an Ivybrook Academy?

Ivybrook Academy’s franchise fee is $50,000.

Franchise owners must also pay 6% in ongoing royalty fees and 1% toward the national brand fund based on gross revenue.

Who’s On Ivybrook Academy’s Leadership Team?

• Drew McWilliams, President and Co-Founder
• Jennifer McWilliams, Head of Schools and Co-Founder
• Amy Cowan, Vice President of Operations
• Katherine Bell, Vice President of Education and Training
• Daniela McElhany, Vice President of Education and Training
• Jessica Cruice, Operations Manager
• Liz Meiswinkel, Support Manager

What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More About Ivybrook Academy?

• Ivybrook Academy Makes Debut on Prestigious Franchise 500 List
• Why This Ivybrook Academy Franchisee Partnered with Franchise Realty Partners
• The Ivybrook Academy Story

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