Launched in 2001 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Nurse Next Door began as a solution to a personal challenge. Founders Ken Sim and John DeHart were inspired to create the business after Sim experienced difficulty finding quality care for his wife, Teena, who was on emergency bed rest during her pregnancy.

Headquartered in Vancouver, Nurse Next Door has grown into a global franchise since it began offering franchising opportunities in 2007.

Today, the company operates more than 400 locations across Canada, the United States, Australia, and England, providing a broad spectrum of services that include everything from simple companionship to 24/7 licensed nursing support.

A key element that distinguishes Nurse Next Door is its “Happier Aging” philosophy. Rather than simply addressing physical care needs, the company emphasizes helping clients reconnect with activities that bring joy and meaning to their lives.

Training

Nurse Next Door provides comprehensive training to its franchisees through a series of structured programs aimed at ensuring successful operation and adherence to brand standards:

1. Initial Training Program: A required training course lasting up to five days, offered either at the franchisor’s headquarters or virtually. It covers all aspects of operating the franchised business. All costs, including travel and accommodation, are the responsibility of the franchisee. The franchisor may terminate the agreement if the franchisee fails to demonstrate adequate capability during this training.
2. Franchise Opener “Countdown to Launch”: Begins immediately after signing the agreement and typically lasts between 4 to 10 weeks. It overlaps with the Foundations Training Program and must be completed within 12 weeks.
3. Foundations Training Program: Focuses on reinforcing key operational concepts and franchise systems. It is primarily delivered in-class and is necessary for launching the franchise. Although the program itself is free, associated costs must be covered by the franchisee.
4. Additional and Ongoing Training: The franchisor may offer both mandatory and optional training on topics like marketing and updated procedures. These may be delivered in various formats, including online, and may involve additional fees up to $1,500.

Territory Protection

Nurse Next Door offers its franchisees a defined territory, generally containing at least 10,000 resident senior citizens based on U.S. census data. The franchisor agrees not to establish another franchise within that territory solely because of population growth.

Franchisees can market both within and outside of their assigned territory as long as they comply with franchisor policies.

However, this territory protection is conditional. If a franchisee fails to meet minimum performance requirements or breaches the agreement, Nurse Next Door reserves the right to reduce or eliminate the territory, or even allow other franchisees or company-owned operations to serve clients in that area.