For theCoderSchool, Franchise Development is All About Organic Growth and a Family Feel

Coding school franchise theCoderSchool has taught over 30,000 students since its inception. The after-school program, which operates year-round, has continued to offer instruction during COVID-19 thanks to virtual classes. The brand teaches coding by pairing students with Code Coaches, experienced coders who also act as mentors.

• The brand was founded in Silicon Valley in 2014 and began franchising in 2016.
• The company has a "mom-and-pop" or "boutique" approach to franchising, focusing on relationships with franchisees and organic growth.
• The company has opened 10 locations in about a year and is working on opening 50 locations by the end of 2020.

The company's core product is quality, customized teaching of coding to kids, which hasn't changed since day one. They've evolved in many other operational ways, from how they track student progress to their many custom support tools, and, of late, their ability to teach online.

• The company's biggest growth period was when they hired a business development person to help sell franchises, but they've since replaced this with an in-house resource who isn't compensated on commission.
• The company differentiates itself from the competition by focusing on quality over quantity, using a small 2:1 teaching ratio, and providing individualized instruction.
• The company has around 45 locations today and has five to seven in development.

The company's resources to help franchisees scale their business include a direct line to the leadership team, custom tools and methods, and a culture of sharing and communication amongst the network. The leadership team also frequently checks in with each franchisee to make sure they have everything they need.

• The ideal franchisee possesses a desire to work hard to get their own results, a passion for helping the next generation, and a focus on long-term quality of the product.
• The ideal franchisee is involved in running the business and doesn't have a short-term view of maximizing revenue.