The future of afterschool education

Could you please introduce your company and tell us what sets your franchise apart from others on the market?

SmartyKids is a rapidly growing international franchise brand with over 350 centres worldwide. We are dedicated to unlocking children’s potential through interactive, engaging, and brain-boosting educational programmes. Our core offering revolves around mental arithmetic using the Japanese abacus Soroban, game-based logic development, and early math skills training. All of these are designed to enhance focus, memory, creativity, and academic confidence.
What sets us apart is our unique blended approach, which combines traditional educational methods with digital gamification and expert-developed materials. Our programmes aim to build essential life skills and lay a strong foundation for overall growth through fun and effective learning experiences. Our centres are vibrant, interactive, and results-driven. With a solid curriculum and a passionate franchisee community, SmartyKids makes education both exciting and impactful.

In which countries or regions is your franchise currently operating?

SmartyKids has established a strong international presence, with active franchisees in Romania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Poland, Slovenia, Croatia, and other rapidly growing European markets. We are currently expanding into Hungary, Slovenia, and Poland, and we have plans to develop further in additional countries around the world. These regions demonstrate high parental engagement and strong demand for modern, effective afterschool education.

What is the process for becoming a franchisee with your brand?

The franchise process is straightforward and divided into four clear steps. First, we provide an offer and assess the potential of your desired area, evaluating your region and business objectives. Second, once the contract is signed, we begin the onboarding process, which includes comprehensive guidance through our methodology, online training platform, marketing resources, and overall business strategy. Third, you will secure a venue, apply branding, and furnish the space, with the help of our design team, which provides a complete digital branding project for your centre. Finally, you officially launch your SmartyKids centre and start making a difference in children's lives.

What is the initial financial investment required to open a franchise unit?

The initial investment required to open a SmartyKids franchise ranges from €3,500 to €10,000, depending on the location and the specific setup. This investment covers the franchise fee, digital branding design, venue rental, teaching materials, equipment such as tables, chairs, and a laptop for the teacher, as well as hiring staff. It is a low-entry investment model with high return potential, making it an accessible opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs across various markets.

Are there any ongoing fees associated with running the franchise?

Yes, there are ongoing fees associated with operating a SmartyKids franchise. Our royalty model is simple and adaptable, with options for either fixed or percentage-based fees depending on the market size and the specific business model. This fee covers curriculum updates, continuous training, business development support, and full access to the SmartyKids educational platform and materials.

What kind of training and support do you offer new franchisees before and after the opening?

All onboarding is conducted entirely online, offering both convenience and efficiency. Franchisees receive training in our educational methods, teaching systems, business operations (including consultations for a successful Grand Opening), customer service, and marketing strategies. After launch, ongoing support includes regular mentoring, access to a peer support network, guidance during new course launches, and continuous updates to the curriculum and digital platform. We consistently introduce new courses to keep franchisees ahead of educational trends.

What revenue or profit potential can a franchisee expect within the first year or over time?

Most franchisees reach their break-even point within 6 to 12 months and begin generating solid profits within the first year. Key revenue streams include monthly tuition fees, the sale of educational materials, and income from workshops and special events. Additional growth can be achieved through multi-unit ownership or regional development opportunities.

What are the day-to-day responsibilities of a franchisee in your network?

The daily responsibilities of a franchisee are primarily managerial. These include overseeing staff recruitment and performance, managing relationships with customers, implementing local marketing strategies, and ensuring quality standards are maintained. Some franchisees also choose to teach classes themselves, particularly during the early stages of their business. The franchise model is flexible and allows for varying levels of personal involvement.

What personal qualities or professional background do you look for in ideal franchise candidates?

We are looking for individuals who are passionate about education, community-oriented, organized, and business-driven. Ideal candidates may include teachers, parents, entrepreneurs, or professionals seeking to run a meaningful business that positively impacts children's lives. No prior experience in education is required—only a strong desire to help children grow and succeed.

How does your brand ensure consistent quality and standards across different franchise locations?

SmartyKids ensures consistent quality through standardized lesson materials and digital tools, online educator certification, and ongoing operational support. We also hold an annual partners meeting to align strategies and share best practices. Additionally, national SmartyKids Olympiads are organized to benchmark student progress and educational outcomes. Franchisees also benefit from access to a centralized marketing hub. Quality assurance is central to our brand values.

Do you offer marketing and promotional support to franchisees? If so, what does that include?

Yes, we provide comprehensive marketing and promotional support. This includes ready-made digital and print materials, social media strategy templates, guidance for launch campaigns, and ongoing seasonal promotions. Our in-house design team also develops custom branding for each centre. We support both national marketing initiatives and local promotional efforts to ensure a strong presence from the very beginning.

Are there any restrictions or requirements regarding the location or premises of a new franchise unit?

SmartyKids centres are ideally located in residential areas, near schools, or in family-friendly zones with high foot traffic. The selected space should be suitable for group learning, safe for children, welcoming, and easily accessible.

 What are your development and expansion plans for the near future?

Our current focus is on expanding in Poland, Hungary, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic. We aim to build a strong network of passionate franchise partners who are committed to delivering high-quality education in their local communities.

What trends or changes do you see shaping the future of your franchise industry?

Several key trends are shaping the future of our industry. These include the mainstream adoption of gamified education, a growing demand from parents for alternative, skills-based learning, increased interest in early math and logic training, and a stronger emphasis on emotional intelligence and focus. SmartyKids is at the forefront of these changes, continually launching new courses and digital innovations to meet evolving educational needs.

Why should someone invest in your franchise over others in the same category?

Investing in SmartyKids means becoming part of a mission, not just a business. Our franchise offers a proven, low-risk model that delivers real impact in local communities. Franchisees receive full support at every step, benefit from strong branding and marketing, and have access to a steady stream of new courses and digital innovations tailored to children’s development. SmartyKids is a fun, fulfilling, and financially sound business opportunity for those looking to invest in the future—both for children and for their own careers.