Marigold Academy is an early childhood education and daycare franchise that provides premium childcare and preschool programs for infants through pre-kindergarten. The brand was founded in 2019 by Jay Shah and Kruti Shah and is headquartered in Bloomfield, New Jersey. It focuses on creating a warm, nurturing learning environment for young children.

The franchise began franchising in 2023, offering entrepreneurs a structured and supportive model to open high-quality childcare centers. Its programs serve children from 6 weeks to 6 years of age, covering infant care, toddler care, preschool and pre-K education. Each program follows an age-appropriate curriculum designed to foster academic, social, and emotional development.

Marigold Academy differentiates itself through its “home-away-from-home” philosophy, blending school readiness with a warm, family-centered atmosphere. The curriculum includes music, languages, sign language, STEAM activities, and other enrichment programs delivered by certified early-childhood professionals. Children benefit from small class sizes, structured routines, and a strong focus on safety and nurturing care.

Training

Marigold Academy provides franchisees with a structured training framework to ensure compliance and operational success:

1. Initial Training Program: Within 45 days before the business start date, the franchisee’s Managing Owner and one manager must attend and complete the franchisor’s training program. The training includes both classroom and on-the-job components and may be conducted either at the designated facility in Northern New Jersey or remotely. If more than two individuals attend, a fee of $500 per person per day applies.
2. Ongoing Training and Refresher Programs: Franchisees must attend refresher and system-wide training sessions as designated by the franchisor. These include additional programs and seminars to stay aligned with evolving operational standards and best practices. All costs for travel, lodging, meals, and wages related to these programs are borne by the franchisee.
3. Supplemental Training: The franchisor may offer or require supplemental training, especially if a new Operating Manager is hired or if operational deficiencies are identified. Supplemental training is charged at $500 per trainer per day, plus travel and accommodation expenses.

Territory Protection

Marigold Academy provides its franchisees with a Designated Territory once a Center location is approved. While there is no guarantee of an exclusive territory, the franchisor agrees not to open or authorize another Marigold Academy Center within the Designated Territory during the agreement’s term, provided the franchisee is in good standing.

Typically, this area is either a five-mile radius or one that includes 10,000 single-family households.

However, the franchise does not restrict itself from soliciting or accepting orders within a franchisee’s territory through alternative channels. These include internet sales, catalog orders, telemarketing, and the operation of centers in locations like malls, government facilities, and amusement parks.