In the third quarter of 2024, the franchise sector reached revenue of R$ 70,2 billion, with revenue 12,9% higher than the same period last year, according to data from the Brazilian Franchising Association (ABF)Thus, the expectations for sector growth in 2025 are optimistic and there are plenty of options for those planning to start a business next year. One of the good bets has been technology and education franchises
For Henrique Nóbrega, founder director of Ctrl+Play, technology and innovation network, joining the two areas at this moment can be promising. The brand, for example, grew from 15 to 90 franchises after being acquired by CNA+. "Entrepreneurship in the technology sector is an opportunity to transform the reality of Brazil", because technology empowers and has the power to change society. When this venture is linked to the education of young people, the impact is even greater, "because we are forming a generation that will change our country", comment
The director points out some tips and reflections for those who want to navigate this segment. Check it out:
Choose a hot tech niche
With technology present in all areas, there are different niches to be explored in franchises. Be hardware products, software, services and even education, the important thing is to choose the path that will attract customers, but mainly that it will remain relevant over the years
One of the trending options is, in fact, the education niche in tech. "The technology market is in a cycle of great growth and those who seize the opportunity early on will reap the best rewards", highlights Nóbrega. Among the various levels and themes taught, the programming and robotics disciplines are the key pieces in an increasingly technological society. This type of business engages with different fronts: the job market, the connection with emerging technologies and, in some networks, the training of young people. Such pillars are crucial nowadays and it is the way in which various franchises, like Ctrl+Play, they have been acting for decades
Analyze your investment
With the choice of the niche, 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. In those moments, to have the help of an accountant and a lawyer, among other specialists, it is essential.
"Although the courage and ambition to start a new business are encouraged, "it is important to keep your feet on the ground and be cautious with financial matters", explain Henrique. The commercial profile of the franchisee is crucial. You cannot buy a franchise expecting it to work like a stock on the stock market, where you buy and just wait. In a franchise, the successful franchisee needs to be directly involved with the operation; the famous 'belly on the counter' is what makes the difference
Consider starting a business in a small town
Even though technology is a fruitful path to invest in, it is likely that small towns still do not have this type of business. That's why, entrepreneurs from smaller regions should not feel discouraged, quite the opposite; it is a great opportunity to bring innovation to the city, in addition to facing little or no competition for being one of the only ones to offer the service
The search for companies that provide quality service is not limited to large cities. Residents of smaller regions also want to enjoy different businesses, interesting and that deliver what they sell. In the case of education and technology franchises, there is also the advantage of being a booster for the students' professional future. This will generate the social proof of your franchise and open doors for new business in the region
Count on good partnerships
To explore business options in tech, it is important to emphasize that entrepreneurs do not need to have training in this sector. Just be willing to learn about this universe and to evolve as the market also grows. Even so, it is important to assess whether the franchise group offers support— trainings, manuals, guidance — during the management
As important as the support from the franchisor is having specialists in the area nearby who guide and contribute to technology skills. They can be the figures that will stay tuned to trends and news and, thus, help to innovate in business
