Ivybrook Academy Franchise Costs, ROI & Profit (2026 Guide)

REPORTED ROI (Item 19): $967,875 (average gross revenues in 2024 for 18 franchised locations operating three or more years)

Franchise overview

Ivybrook Academy is a half-day preschool franchise with a curriculum shaped by Montessori and Reggio Emilia. It is aimed at families who want a strong early learning experience but are not looking for full-day child care.

Ivybrook Academy was founded by Jennifer and Drew McWilliams, a former first-grade teacher and experienced businessman, after they identified a gap in the market for early child care experiences that prioritized balanced, child-centered learning.

Mission: To provide an exceptional preschool environment for children through curriculum, involvement and a unique learning environment.

Vision: To cater to families looking for a half-day preschool opportunity for learning, enrichment and socialization without having to place their child in a full-day child care establishment.

• Relationship Led: Ivybrook Academy teams work to know each student as an individual and support them accordingly.

• Conscious Academics: The brand takes an academic approach while keeping expectations age-appropriate and grounded in hands-on learning.

• Unique Education Influences: Ivybrook Academy programs were created with the influence of Montessori and Reggio Emilia, as well as realistic, modern expectations of early learning.

• Top-Ranked Franchise Brand: In 2026, Ivybrook Academy earned a spot on the highly competitive Franchise 500 list.

• Proven Curriculum: Franchisees with Ivybrook Academy gain access to a carefully developed curriculum that helps them stand out from other preschools in the market.

• Operational and Marketing Support: Ivybrook Academy offers a comprehensive support system to help owners thrive.

Ivybrook Academy is growing nationwide. Visit the website for more information on the specific markets it’s targeting.

Initial costs and fees

Initial Costs: The estimated initial investment required to begin operation of an Ivybrook Academy franchise ranges from $540,700 to $869,860. The 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) breaks these costs down as follows:

Initial Franchise Fee: Ivybrook Academy charges an initial franchise fee of $50,000, due at the time the franchise agreement is signed.

Franchisees purchasing an existing Ivybrook Academy pay a $10,000 transfer training fee rather than the initial franchise fee.

Ongoing Fees: According to the 2025 FDD, Ivybrook Academy franchisees are responsible for the following ongoing payments and fees:

ROI Potential: According to the 2025 FDD, the 42 franchises operating for the entirety of 2024 reported the following gross revenues:

Ivybrook Academy helps franchisees identify a real estate broker, reviews potential sites and offers feedback on school layout. The brand also provides a proprietary decor package and access to the brand standards manual to ensure each school is aligned with the brand.

Franchisees attend an initial training program that includes 80 hours of education covering business, real estate, marketing, enrollment and operations. The owner and at least one school administrator must attend.

Franchisees receive ongoing guidance and business coaching. Ivybrook Academy also conducts periodic site visits to offer additional coaching.

As part of the Ivybrook model, franchisees gain access to the school management program and an intranet. The franchisor supports Ivybrook Academy’s online presence.

• Liquid Assets: $250,000

• Net Worth: $1,000,000

Franchisee requirements

Franchisees do not need specific educational experience, but they should be passionate about Ivybrook Academy’s mission and able to execute on the model.

At least one owner must directly participate in operations on an ongoing basis. Franchisees also must hire a school administrator to provide full-time, on-site supervision.

Ivybrook Academy does not offer financing.

“I feel supported and encouraged every step of the way.” - Heather Calhoun, Mt. Pleasant and Summerville, South Carolina

Read the story of Erin and David McGill, owners in Woodstock, Georgia, here.

Market and competition

In 2026, the global early childhood education market is valued at $304.4 billion and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of over 8% through 2035 to reach $581.6 billion.

Ivybrook Academy’s primary competitors are private Montessori schools and national franchises like Primrose Schools and The Goddard School. The brand distinguishes itself with its half-day program that emphasizes Montessori and Reggio Emilia philosophies.

1. Initial Inquiry: Fill out the online form to express interest.

2. Franchise Disclosure Document: Review the FDD for more information on the requirements and business model.

3. Application: Complete and submit the official franchise application for review.

4. Discovery Day: Attend Discovery Day to meet the team and learn more about the business.

5. Franchise Agreement: If both parties agree to move forward, sign your franchise agreement and officially become a franchisee.

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