Mad Science is a children’s education and entertainment franchise founded in 1985 in Montreal, Canada by brothers Ariel and Ron Shlien. Headquartered at 8360 Bougainville Street, Suite 201, Montreal, QC, it delivers hands-on STEM experiences for kids aged 3–12 through after-school programs, birthday parties, workshops, special events, and camps.

The business model combines science enrichment with entertainment, aiming to spark lifelong curiosity in biology, chemistry, robotics, and more.

Franchising began in 1995 with initial units in Toronto and Miami. The brand has expanded to over 150 locations in more than 20 countries, reaching over a million children annually.

Mad Science now supports both single-unit and area-development franchise models, offering protected territories, low startup costs, and scalable programs that adapt to different markets and school systems.

Mad Science differentiates itself through a proprietary 200+ hour curriculum developed by an in-house R&D team. Its programs include interactive shows, NASA partnerships, and even theatrical productions.

Training

Mad Science offers franchisees a structured and extensive training system to support their operations:

1. Initial Training Program: This mandatory 4–10 day program is provided at the franchisor's discretion either onsite or virtually. It covers a wide array of topics including business history, economics, science demonstration techniques, financial controls, marketing, advertising, and personnel training.
2. On-Site Training: A franchisor representative provides approximately five days of training at the franchisee's location. This includes help in setting up standardized operational procedures and training instructors. If the franchisee cancels or misses significant portions, they must reimburse associated costs.
3. Additional Training by Request: If requested by the franchisee, Mad Science may provide further assistance depending on feasibility and appropriateness. All related costs, including service fees, travel, lodging, and meals for the trainer, are covered by the franchisee.
4. Franchisor-Initiated Additional Training: The franchisor may also schedule further training to address operational needs or new personnel. These sessions may be conducted virtually, and the franchisee bears all costs.

Territory Protection

Mad Science offers franchisees a defined geographic “Territory” within which they may operate their franchised business. This territory is not exclusive but is protected to a degree: the franchisor will not license or operate another Mad Science franchise within the same area.

Franchisees must limit marketing and promotional efforts strictly to their territory and may only operate there unless otherwise permitted. However, Mad Science and its affiliates reserve broad rights to engage in other business activities within the territory.