In the third quarter of 2024, the franchise sector reached a revenue of R$ 70.2 billion, with sales 12.9% higher than the same period last year, according to data from the Brazilian Franchising Association (ABF).Thus, expectations for sector growth in 2025 are optimistic and there is no shortage of options for those planning to start their own business next year. One of the good bets has been technology and education franchises.
According to Henrique Nóbrega, founding director of Ctrl+Play, a technology and innovation network, combining these two areas at this moment can be promising. For example, the brand grew from 15 to 90 franchises after being acquired by CNA+. “Entrepreneuring in the technology sector is an opportunity to transform the reality of Brazil, as technology empowers and has the power to change society. When this venture is linked to educating young people, the impact is even greater, as we are shaping a generation that will change our country,” he comments.
The director offers some tips and insights for those looking to navigate in this segment. Check it out:
Choose a trending tech niche
With technology present in all areas, there are different niches to explore in franchises. Whether it’s hardware products, software, services, or even education, the important thing is to choose a path that will attract customers, but mainly one that will remain relevant over the years.
One of the trending options is indeed the tech education niche. “The technology market is in a cycle of great growth, and those who seize the opportunity early will reap the best rewards,” highlights Nóbrega. Among the various levels and topics taught, programming and robotics disciplines are the key pieces in an increasingly technological society. This type of business interacts with different fronts: the job market, the connection with emerging technologies, and in some networks, the formation of young people. Such pillars are crucial nowadays, and it is the way various franchises, like Ctrl+Play, have been operating for decades.
Analyze your investment
With the niche choice, understand the profitability and expansion plans of the franchise before making a decision. Create a margin for working capital that is sufficient until the business becomes profitable, and plan possible scenarios to understand if you are prepared for this journey. At times like these, having a team of an accountant and a lawyer, among other specialists, is essential.
“Although courage and ambition to start a new business are encouraged, it is important to stay grounded and be cautious with financial matters,” explains Henrique. “The commercial profile of the franchisee is crucial. You cannot buy a franchise expecting it to work like a stock where you buy and just wait. In a franchise, a successful franchisee needs to be directly involved in the operation; the famous ‘hands-on’ approach makes the difference.”
Consider venturing in a small town
Although technology is a fruitful path to invest in, it is likely that small cities do not yet have this type of business. Therefore, entrepreneurs from smaller regions should not feel discouraged; on the contrary, it is a great opportunity to bring innovation to the city, as well as to face little or no competition for being one of the few to offer the service.
The search for companies that deliver quality service is not limited to large centers. Residents of smaller regions also want to enjoy different, interesting businesses that deliver what they promise. In the case of education and technology franchises, there is also the advantage of being a driver of students’ future careers. This will generate social proof for your franchise and open doors for new business in the region.
Rely on good partnerships
To explore business options in tech, it is important to emphasize that entrepreneurs do not need to have a background in this sector. It is enough to have the willingness to learn about this universe and to evolve as the market grows. Still, it is important to assess if the franchise group offers support — training, manuals, guidance — during management.
As important as the support from the franchisor is having experts in the field nearby to guide and contribute to technology skills. They can be the ones who stay tuned to trends and news and, thus, help innovate in business.
