Established
2004
Franchise Units
5
Minimum Investment
$57,300
Franchise Fee
$22,500
Total Investment Range
$83,050
Home Based
No
Description
Empowering the Next Generation: The Youth Enrichment League Franchise
In an era where childhood is increasingly defined by screen time, Youth Enrichment League ({YEL!}) stands as a vital beacon of hands-on, high-energy, and heart-centered learning. As a premier provider of extracurricular programs across the USA, {YEL!} has redefined the "after-school" experience. We don’t just fill time; we ignite curiosity through a massive catalog of over 500 hours of proprietary curriculum spanning STEM, Chess, Athletics, and the Arts.
Our market positioning is unique: we are a low-overhead, mobile-based business that meets families where they are—in schools, community centers, and parks. For entrepreneurs, this means you can build a meaningful, community-focused business without the burden of heavy real estate costs or long-term leases. {YEL!} is more than a franchise; it is a vehicle for local leaders to provide "Five Star" enrichment that helps students THINK, LEARN, and PLAY WELL.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
Investing in Youth Enrichment League is an investment in the future of your community and your own financial independence. Here is why {YEL!} stands out in the $25 billion youth enrichment industry:
Diverse Revenue Streams: Unlike niche franchises that only offer one subject, {YEL!} provides a "one-stop shop" for schools. From robotics and coding to fencing and track and field, your versatility makes you an indispensable partner for school districts.
Low Overhead, High Agility: This is a home-based/mobile business model. You don’t need a brick-and-mortar facility. You bring the equipment and instructors to existing venues, significantly lowering your barrier to entry and risk.
Recession-Resistant Demand: Parents consistently prioritize their children’s education and development, even during economic shifts. After-school care is a necessity for working families, and {YEL!} provides a premium, educational alternative to standard daycare.
Proven Systems: We’ve spent two decades refining the "{YEL!} Way." Our proprietary software manages everything from registrations and rosters to teacher scheduling, allowing you to focus on growth rather than paperwork.
Background
Founded: 2004
Founders: Chet and Lisa Gunhus
Franchising Since: 2019
Headquarters: Hopkins, Minnesota
Active Units: 5
Category: Children's Enrichment & Education
The brand began as a passion project by Chet and Lisa Gunhus to bring higher-quality enrichment to Minnesota schools. What started with a single chess club blossomed into a massive organization serving tens of thousands of students. In 2019, {YEL!} opened its doors to franchisees, looking for partners who shared their "Five Star" service mentality. Today, the brand is recognized for its robust curriculum and its ability to simplify logistics for busy school administrators.
Support Training
We ensure you are never "flying solo." Our training program is designed to transform you into a confident business owner, regardless of your background in education.
Pre-Launch & Initial Training
8-Day Intensive Training: Conducted at the headquarters in Minnesota, including 44.5 hours of classroom instruction and 32 hours of on-the-job training.
Curriculum Mastery: Deep dives into STEM, Sports, and Arts subjects so you can effectively train your own staff.
The {YEL!} Way: Comprehensive training on sales techniques, school relationship management, and financial systems.
Operational & Marketing Support
Proprietary Software: Access to a custom-built platform for registrations, payroll, and database management.
Marketing Toolkit: Professionally designed "backpack flyers," social media templates, and localized website subdomains.
Recruitment Guidance: Proven strategies for hiring and retaining high-quality teachers and coaches.
Ideal Candidate
We are looking for "Culture Champions"—people who are as passionate about child development as they are about building a scalable business.
The Relationship Builder: You should enjoy networking with school principals, community leaders, and parents.
The Multi-Tasker: You’ll be managing schedules, marketing efforts, and a team of part-time instructors.
Investment Capability: Candidates should have a minimum of $50,000 in liquid capital.
Passion for Education: While you don't need a teaching degree, a genuine desire to improve the lives of children is non-negotiable.
Commitment: This is not an absentee-owner model; it requires an owner-operator who is ready to lead from the front.
Financial Detail
| Expense Category | Details |
| Total Initial Investment | $57,300 – $83,050 |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $22,500 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $50,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of gross sales |
| Marketing/Brand Fund | 1% – 2% |
| Infrastructure Cost | Minimal (Home-office based) |
| Working Capital | $5,000 – $15,000 (First 3 months) |
