Introduction
The demand for quality early childhood education is rapidly growing in India. With the increasing focus on holistic development and foundational learning, investing in a kindergarten franchise has become a lucrative business opportunity. Many established education brands offer franchise models that ensure strong support, brand recognition, and standardized curriculum, making it easier for entrepreneurs to enter the education sector.
Whether you're looking to open a nursery school or a play school franchise, it's important to choose a brand with a proven track record, comprehensive training programs, and strong operational support. In this article, we’ll explore the top kindergarten franchise brands in India that you should definitely consider.
1. Kidzee
Overview: A pioneer in early childhood education, Kidzee is part of the Zee Learn Ltd group. It is one of Asia’s largest preschool chains with over 1900 centers across India.
Franchise Fee: ₹2–5 lakhs
Investment: ₹12–15 lakhs
Area Required: 1500–2500 sq. ft.
Why Choose: Established brand, proprietary "iLLUME" curriculum, strong training and marketing support.
2. EuroKids
Overview: EuroKids is known for its research-based curriculum focused on child-centric learning. It has more than 1200 centers across India and abroad.
Franchise Fee: ₹5–6 lakhs
Investment: ₹10–20 lakhs
Area Required: 1500–2000 sq. ft.
Why Choose: Premium brand image, structured teacher training, proven ROI model.
3. Hello Kids
Overview: Hello Kids is India’s first structured play school franchise offering affordable education. It targets Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities specifically.
Franchise Fee: ₹50,000–1 lakh
Investment: ₹3–5 lakhs
Area Required: 1000–1500 sq. ft.
Why Choose: Low investment, no royalty model, wide presence in semi-urban and rural areas.
4. Shemrock & Shemford Group of Schools
Overview: One of India’s oldest chains in the play school franchise segment, Shemrock has a pan-India presence with more than 600+ schools.
Franchise Fee: ₹1.5–2 lakhs
Investment: ₹10–15 lakhs
Area Required: 2000–3000 sq. ft.
Why Choose: Experienced brand, 30+ years in education, continuous innovation in teaching methods.
5. Little Millennium
Overview: Backed by Educomp, Little Millennium is known for its “Seven Petal” curriculum focused on the overall development of the child.
Franchise Fee: ₹3–5 lakhs
Investment: ₹12–18 lakhs
Area Required: 1500–2500 sq. ft.
Why Choose: Research-driven learning, strong curriculum, extensive franchise support.
6. Bachpan Play School
Overview: Bachpan is one of the fastest-growing preschool chains in India with over 1100 branches. It offers both kindergarten and nursery school franchise opportunities.
Franchise Fee: ₹2 lakhs approx.
Investment: ₹10–12 lakhs
Area Required: 1000–1500 sq. ft.
Why Choose: Affordable investment, modern infrastructure, nationwide presence.
7. Footprints Childcare
Overview: Footprints follows a tech-enabled learning model and emphasizes safety, nutrition, and developmental milestones.
Franchise Fee: ₹3–4 lakhs
Investment: ₹15–20 lakhs
Area Required: 2000+ sq. ft.
Why Choose: Real-time CCTV access for parents, personalized learning programs, premium segment.
Why Invest in a Kindergarten Franchise?
Low Risk: Backed by an established brand.
Growing Demand: Parents prioritize early education.
Scalable Model: Expandable to multiple branches.
Support System: Training, curriculum, and marketing provided by franchisors.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Nursery School Franchise
Brand Reputation
Initial Investment and ROI
Curriculum and Pedagogy
Franchise Support
Location and Area Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the minimum investment for a kindergarten franchise in India?
Most play school franchises require an initial investment between ₹3 lakhs to ₹20 lakhs, depending on the brand and location.
2. Do I need to have a background in education to start a nursery school franchise?
Not necessarily. Most franchisors provide full training and operational support, making it easy for even first-time entrepreneurs.
3. How profitable is a play school franchise?
A well-run play school can break even within 1.5 to 2 years and offer ROI of 30–40% depending on student enrollment and operational efficiency.
4. Can I run the kindergarten franchise from my home?
Some brands allow home-based models, especially in the initial phase, if the space meets safety and space criteria (usually 1000+ sq. ft. minimum).
5. Which is better – starting my own school or taking a franchise?
Franchises offer brand value, pre-set curriculum, and operational support. While starting your own school offers more freedom, it also carries higher risks.