Celebrate Women's History Month by exploring our collection of groundbreaking series shaped by the vision and determination of inspiring women. These great brands highlight the business savvy and unwavering resilience demonstrated by their female founders.
These success stories are even more compelling when women now own about a third of franchises. Here are her five examples of franchises that were not only founded by women, but also surpassed the milestone of expanding beyond 100 franchises, breaking barriers and paving the way for the next generation of female entrepreneurs. To do. One of them has soared to over 600 of her.
Related: Considering franchise ownership? Get started today and take this quiz to find a personalized list of franchises that fit your lifestyle, interests, and budget.
challenge island
Founded in 2003 by renowned author, educator, and parenting expert Sharon Duke Estroff MAT, Challenge Island has experienced significant growth. The program, which focuses on the STEAM curriculum (science, technology, engineering, art, and math), is the brainchild of a teacher and mother turned entrepreneur.
Since starting franchising in 2012, we now have 232 franchise units around the world, helping students develop skills such as creativity, critical thinking, problem solving and emotional intelligence. Additionally, being a Challenge Island franchisee means more than education, offering a proven business model, support and the opportunity to help develop future leaders. It's not just an education issue. It's an opportunity to be part of a community that shapes young minds.
Related: From coding to Creole cooking — 5 inspiring success stories of Black-owned businesses
blow blow driver
In 2007, two women in the Vancouver metropolitan area, Canada, pondered the following questions: “How can we give the everyday woman great hair without spending a fortune?” In a short period of time, three of her Blo Blow Dry Bar locations opened in Vancouver. Two years later, a group of investors led by Vanessa and Ali Jacobson purchased her Blo Blow Dry Bar and grew it into a chain of over 100 locations.
Invented and expanded by women, Blo Blow Dry Bar continues to train women to become entrepreneurs through hands-on support, design tips, and help hiring staff.
Related: Busting franchise myths and choosing the right opportunity
pure barre
Although its founders are no longer running it, Pure Barre is a powerhouse in the group fitness industry. Carrie Doll opened his first fitness studio (which would become his first Pure Barre) in 2001 and has grown into an international phenomenon with 650 units around the world. Do left the company in 2015 to focus on nonprofits that help women and children in need, but she returned in 2017 as “chief barre officer.”
Beyond superior fitness capabilities, Pure Barre offers compelling opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. Opening a Pure Barre franchise means partnering with a globally recognized brand, leveraging a proven business model and accessing a support network. The benefits extend beyond financial success, giving franchisees the opportunity to positively impact their communities by promoting healthy lifestyles. By becoming part of the Pure Barre family, you'll not only contribute to Dorr's vision of spreading good living habits, you'll position yourself as a leader in fostering an atmosphere of support for both men and women.
RELATED: See where Pure Barre ranks on Entrepreneur's 2024 Franchise 500 list
bright star care
In 2002, Sherry Sun was already a franchisee of two hotel chains, but her entrepreneurial spirit inspired her to dream of more. Since then, with the founding and expansion of BrightStar Care, she has established herself as a role model for women and men venturing into entrepreneurship. BrightStar Care stands out as a leader in providing home care services in the United States, and since entering franchising in 2005, has grown to 373 locations across the United States.
Opening a BrightStar Care franchise is more than a business, it's an opportunity to contribute to a critical and growing need for home services. The brand is actively seeking caring and passionate professionals to join our network to strengthen our communities and provide care to those in need.
As a franchisee, you not only partner with a successful and reputable brand, you also become part of our broader mission to positively impact the lives of individuals in need of specialized care. . BrightStar Care offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to make a meaningful difference while building successful businesses.
Related: See where BrightStar Care ranks on Entrepreneur's 2024 Franchise 500 list
women's history month
As we move further into Women's History Month, these franchises embody more than just business acumen. These reflect the untapped potential of women entrepreneurs. Their journey from concept to growing franchise is more than just a success story, it's a powerful story that challenges the status quo and shows that with the right vision, support and determination, barriers can be broken down.
