Celebrate Women’s History Month by exploring a collection of innovative franchises shaped by the vision and determination of inspiring women. These exceptional brands highlight the business prowess and unwavering resilience demonstrated by their founders.
In a landscape where women currently own approximately a third of franchises, these successful narratives become even more compelling. Here are five examples of franchises that were not only founded by women, but also surpassed the milestone of expanding beyond 100 franchises – with one skyrocketing to more than 600 – breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of entrepreneurs.
Related: Considering Franchise Ownership? Get started today and take this quiz to find your personalized list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests and budget.
Challenge Island
Founded in 2003 by Sharon Duke Estroff MAT, a well-known author, educator and parenting expert, Challenge Island has seen substantial growth. Centered around a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) curriculum, it’s the brainchild of a teacher and mom-turned-entrepreneur.
Since starting franchising in 2012, it now has 232 franchise units worldwide, helping students develop skills such as creativity, critical thinking, problem solving and emotional intelligence. Plus, being a Challenge Island affiliate means more than an education: it offers a proven business model, support, and the chance to help train future leaders. It’s not just about education; it’s an opportunity to be part of a community that shapes young minds.
Related: From Coding to Creole Cooking: Here Are 5 Inspiring Success Stories of Black-Owned Businesses
Blo hairdryer drying bar
In 2007, in the Vancouver, Canada area, two women pondered a question: How can we give everyday women great hair without spending a fortune? Before long, three locations of Blo Blow Dry Bar sprang up in Vancouver. Two years later, a group of investors led by Vanessa and Ari Yakobson acquired Blo Blow Dry Bar, turning it into a chain with more than 100 locations.
Blo Blow Dry Bar, conceived and expanded by women, continues to train women to become entrepreneurs with practical support, design advice and assistance in recruiting staff.
Related: Debunking franchising myths and choosing the right opportunity
Pure bar
Although no longer run by the founder, Pure Barre is a powerhouse in the group fitness industry. Carrie Dorr opened her first gym (which would become the first Pure Barre) in 2001 and has become an international phenomenon with 650 units worldwide. Dorr stepped away from the company in 2015 to focus on a nonprofit to help women and children in need, but she returned in 2017 as “Chief Barre Officer.”
In addition to its fitness prowess, Pure Barre offers an enticing opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs. Opening a Pure Barre franchise means partnering with a globally recognized brand, tapping into a proven business model and gaining access to a support network. The benefits go beyond financial success, giving affiliates the ability to positively impact their communities by promoting healthy lifestyles. Joining the Pure Barre family not only allows you to contribute to Dorr’s vision of spreading good lifestyle habits, but also positions you as a leader in promoting a supportive atmosphere for both men and women.
Related: See Where Pure Barre Ranked on Entrepreneur’s 2024 Franchise 500 List
BrightStar Care
By 2002, Shelly Sun was already affiliated with two hotel chains, but her entrepreneurial spirit pushed her to aspire for more. Since then, the creation and expansion of BrightStar Care has positioned it as a role model for women and men venturing into entrepreneurship. BrightStar Care stands out as a leader in offering in-home services in the United States and has grown to 373 locations nationwide since venturing into franchising in 2005.
Opening a BrightStar Care franchise goes beyond business: It offers the opportunity to contribute to a crucial and growing need for in-home services. The brand actively seeks compassionate and passionate professionals to join its network, improving communities and providing care to those in need.
As an affiliate, you not only align yourself with a successful and reputable brand, but you also become part of a larger mission to positively impact the lives of people in need of specialized care. BrightStar Care offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to make a significant difference while building a thriving business.
Related: See Where BrightStar Care Ranked on Entrepreneur’s 2024 Franchise 500 List
Women’s History Month
As we approach Women’s History Month, these franchises exemplify more than just business sense; reflect the untapped potential of female entrepreneurs. Their journeys from concept to growing franchises are not just success stories but powerful narratives that challenge the status quo, proving that with the right vision, support and determination, barriers are meant to be broken.