Ivybrook Academy Launches $5,000 Franchise Reduction for Educators Pursuing Ownership*

June 30, 2026 // Franchising.com // CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Ivybrook Academy announces the launch of a franchise incentive designed to make ownership more accessible to educators. The incentive provides a reduction in the Initial Franchise Fee for qualifying franchisees with educational backgrounds.

The initiative recognizes the role of educators in shaping young minds and describes a pathway for current teachers, administrators, and retired educators to participate in Ivybrook Academy’s franchise model. It outlines support for implementing an individualized, child-centered approach to early learning across communities.

“Educators bring a unique understanding of what children, families, and fellow teachers need to thrive,” said Jennifer McWilliams, co-founder of Ivybrook Academy. “This offering recognizes the value of that experience and makes ownership more accessible for people who already share our passion for early childhood education.&rdquo

New owners receive comprehensive training designed to prepare them for school operations, enrollment, staffing, curriculum implementation, and local community engagement. Ivybrook Academy provides pre-opening and ongoing support, including real estate, site selection, training, marketing, and operational guidance. This support helps ensure each location reflects Ivybrook Academy’s individualized, child-centered approach to early learning.

Today, Ivybrook Academy has 70 locations open and 40 locations awarded to franchise partners across 22 states. Educators account for a portion of the franchise ownership. This ownership mix includes individuals with backgrounds in education, healthcare, finance, technology, and corporate leadership. The organization notes that educators comprise a portion of the franchise ownership group, bringing firsthand experience in supporting young children, families, and teachers in local schools. For educators, school leaders, and others with experience in early learning, Ivybrook Academy provides a path to entrepreneurship that enables continued involvement in shaping children's lives while contributing to education-rooted business operations.

“As we continue expanding into new communities, we want to grow with owners who understand both the business opportunity and the responsibility that comes with serving young children and families,” said Drew McWilliams, co-founder of Ivybrook Academy. “This incentive helps us reach more candidates with educational backgrounds who are aligned with Ivybrook Academy’s mission and ready to bring our model to their local markets.”

SOURCE Ivybrook Academy

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