Whether parents work from the office or home, the need for high-quality child care remains unchanged. The child care industry is growing to meet this need, with a continuous annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.86% expected from 2024 to 2030. Within this industry, there’s a wide array of education franchise options for investors, including The Learning Experience and Lightbridge Academy.
While every child care franchise strives to provide reliable solutions, they vary in the services they offer to families and the support they give their franchisees. Understanding the pros and cons of each brand before making an investment will help you identify the right franchise for your skills and goals.
Side-by-Side Comparison: The Learning Experience and Lightbridge Academy
| The Learning Experience Franchise Cost | Lightbridge Academy Cost | |
| Franchise Fee | $60,000* | $40,000 |
| Initial Investment | $685,799 to $5,608,799* | $1,067,233 to $4,885,000 |
| Net Worth Requirement | $350,000* | $750,000 |
| Liquid Capital Requirement | $150,000* | $250,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 7%* | 7% |
| Ad/Brand Development Fee | 1% * | 3% |
*According to Entrepreneur
Learn More About The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience, or TLE, was founded in 1979. They have been franchising since 2003, and in that time, have opened nearly 400 units nationwide. Their number of open units has increased by 40.5% over the last three years, making them one of the fastest-growing brands in the child care industry.
The Learning Experience franchises offer programs for children aged six weeks to six years. Understanding that lots of development happens in two-year-olds, there are specific programs for the ages of 2-2 ½ and 2 ½ to 3.
TLE’s curriculum, L.E.A.P.®, is a hands-on learning experience focused on exploration and STEM at every age level. It’s built around a cast of animated animal characters, each of whom represents a specific activity or value.
As for the financial requirements of franchise ownership: The Learning Experience franchise cost is in line with similar brands, with lower minimum net worth and liquidity figures. This may be a good option for newer investors, as it is somewhat easier to financially qualify.
According to The Learning Experience, 66% of the units in their system are owned by multi-unit operators.
Training for The Learning Experience franchise owners is considerable. Franchisees receive 156 hours of hands-on training, in addition to 65 hours of classroom training. TLE franchisees have access to ongoing support, marketing assistance, and networking opportunities.
Your Franchise Opportunity with Lightbridge Academy
With a remarkable growth rate of 47.2% more units over the last three years, Lightbridge Academy is also on a rapid growth trajectory. As The Solution for Working Families®, Lightbridge Academy is proud to provide parents with the top-quality child care they want and give children the nurturing environment they need to get the best start possible.
Innovative family-focused technologies help parents stay connected to their children every moment they’re at the centers. This level of transparency and connection not only builds trust but creates better outcomes for children.
Rather than focusing on one learning area, like STEM, Lightbridge Academy’s proprietary Seedlings® Early Childhood Education Curriculum serves the whole child. Centers see childhood as a learning opportunity and encourage a natural curiosity in art, science, reading, math, and more. Centers also teach mindfulness and coping skills, giving children the social-emotional skills they need to thrive as they grow.
Lightbridge Academy franchise owners receive best-in-class resources and support to become successful members of the franchise system with assistance in curriculum planning, marketing, operations, and anything else that may help franchisees grow their businesses. With over 75% of the franchise system comprised of centers run by multi-unit operators, Lightbridge Academy knows what multi-unit franchisees need to thrive.
Both franchise opportunities make for a smart investment in the child care industry. TLE is a good choice for those who are interested in a STEM-focused approach, as well as newer investors. Conversely, Lightbridge Academy’s emphasis on family engagement and whole-child development will be appealing to investors who are looking for a more well-rounded approach to child care. Take time to evaluate your goals, skills, and financial readiness to determine the right fit.
To learn more about your franchise opportunity with Lightbridge Academy, get started here.
