Frequently Asked Questions

You can connect by submitting an inquiry through our inquiry form or by emailing us at franchising@cefa.ca. A member of the CEFA team will review your information and follow up with the next steps.

Yes. Initial inquiries are welcome, and the team can help answer general questions about the opportunity, process, and next steps before a full application is submitted. Submit an inquiry or contact us at franchising@cefa.ca.

Once an inquiry is submitted, the CEFA team will review your details and reach out to discuss the opportunity, answer questions, and guide you through the next stage of the process.

The typical total investment to open a CEFA school ranges from $2.5M to $3M, including a $70,000 franchise fee. Prospective partners are generally expected to have $850K to $1M in liquid capital.

Please note these figures are for illustrative purposes only. Submit a franchise inquiry to receive a detailed breakdown.

Early childhood education is a resilient category shaped by consistent family demand and projected market expansion, with Canada’s child care market expected to reach $24.1B by 2030. That makes a CEFA franchise a recession-resilient opportunity backed by a proven business model, premium brand position, and more than 25 years of experience.

No specific degree or certification is required. Experience in business, leadership, or education can be helpful, but it is not mandatory.

CEFA supports franchise partners through site selection, design, construction, opening, training, marketing, and ongoing operations. Our team also provides guidance across curriculum, leadership, hiring, finance, and business performance.

Once the right location is secured, opening a CEFA school typically takes 12 to 18 months, depending on construction, approvals, and local licensing requirements. Timelines may vary by market and site conditions.

CEFA regularly updates its target markets and available locations. The best way to see current opportunities is through the Available Opportunities page.

While CEFA works with brokers and developers to initiate and maintain momentum for potential sites in our pipeline and provides extensive support to all stakeholders throughout the site evaluation and negotiation phases, franchise partners are ultimately responsible for securing their sites, which is subject to CEFA’s approval.

With over 25 years in business and more than 50 schools open or in development, CEFA brings the credibility of an established brand and the stability of a long-term tenancy model. Our schools are thoughtfully designed to strengthen property appeal, support community fit, and create lasting value over time.

In addition, CEFA maintains close relationships with most national and institutional landlords and negotiates favourable terms across the country in support of its Franchise Partner network.

CEFA looks for sites with 10,000–15,000 sq. ft. of interior space, plus dedicated outdoor play space equal to at least 50% of the interior area. Ground-floor space is preferred, with strong natural light, clear sightlines, safe family access, and parking in line with local requirements.

CEFA seeks long-term lease opportunities ranging from 10 to 50 years, with renewal options. Ideal sites also support safe ingress and egress, family drop-off, and sufficient outdoor space to accommodate daily school operations.

Landlords are typically responsible for base building delivery, including structure, mechanical, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, fire and life safety systems, windows, exterior doors, parking, and site servicing. This may also include development permits, base building drawings, and any required modifications to floors, walls, or roofs. Interior improvements specific to school operations are generally handled by the tenant.