Q. Why should I choose Doodle Bugs! over a competing child care franchise?
A. Doodle Bugs! is the preferred choice for two main reasons:
(1) Families prefer Doodle Bugs!. Children are immediately captivated by Mr. Doodle Bug’s bright green face and red antennae! Our unique, trademarked brand name, logo and costumed character may help you attract new customers.
(2) With 20+ years of experience in early childhood education, we’ve created an amazing program that we feel is unlike any other. We are committed to slow, purposeful growth – focusing on the quality, not quantity of our franchised centers. Your Doodle Bugs! location will be treated as another one of our company-owned centers, not as #188 of a rapidly growing franchise system. This personal attention is our promise to you. We will work hard to help you bring the genuine Doodle Bugs! experience to your hometown.

Q. Do I need previous childcare experience to become a franchisee?
A. No, you do not need previous child care experience. Our early childhood team will provide you with the training necessary to operate your center. To meet state licensing regulations, you will hire a qualified Center Director to oversee the educational component of your program.

Q. How much money can I make?
A. Profitability will vary from franchisee to franchisee, and we cannot estimate the results of any particular franchisee. When we begin serious discussions regarding our franchise program, our Franchise Disclosure Document will provide relevant historical financial information.

Q. What are the total costs to open a Doodle Bugs! center?
A. The total costs to build a Doodle Bugs! center depends on the size of the facility and the market where the center will be located. The initial fees and costs are outlined in the Investment section of our website. 

Q. Does Doodle Bugs! offer financing?
A. A. We do not offer financing. We recommend financing through the United States Small Business Administration (SBA). Franchisees of the Doodle Bugs! system are eligible for expedited and streamlined SBA loan processing through the SBA’s Franchise Registry Program, www.franchiseregistry.com. The SBA 504 program may finance up to 90% of the cost to build and furnish your center. The SBA 7A program may finance operating capital and assist with initial fees. Loans are subject to qualification requirements and we can assist you in exploring these options.

Q. What are the royalty fees?
A. The Doodle Bugs! royalty fee is 6% of gross revenue (or 7% in a market where a Doodle Bugs! regional manager is located). You will be required to spend 1% of gross revenue on local marketing.

Q. How long does it take to open a Doodle Bugs! center?
A. It may take you 12 to 30 months to open your center. The length of time depends on the how long it takes to identify a location and construct your building. We may have Accelerated Opportunities in your area, which may allow you to open a center in a shorter timeframe.

Q. Will I receive assistance in selecting a site for my center?
A. Yes. Shawn O’Donnell, Director of Real Estate and Development, will assist you in analyzing the demographics of your market and evaluating each available identified site.

Q. Will I have a protected territory?
A. Yes. You will be granted a protected territory which takes many factors into consideration, including population, traffic patterns and income levels.

Q. Will I receive guidance on purchasing equipment and supplies?
A. Yes. We will provide you with purchase orders required for the majority of equipment and supplies that you will need to open your Doodle Bugs! center.

Q. Will I receive assistance for the grand opening?
A. Yes. The Doodle Bugs! marketing department will assist you in developing and executing your marketing plan, from an initial awareness campaign through your successful grand opening event.

Q. Will I receive adequate training?
A. Absolutely. You and your Center Director will spend at least three weeks at our company operated centers. Training is provided by our administrative team, including Anthony, Anna and Clarine Insinna, the company founders. A Doodle Bugs! representative will also be available to assist in training at your Doodle Bugs! location both before and after your grand opening.

Q. How do I get started?
A. Please complete the Information Request form or call us at (866) 668-5111. Russ Gugino, Director of Franchise Development, will further explain the Doodle Bugs! opportunity and assist you in becoming the next member of our growing team.