MEDIA
RESOURCES
In 1954, the foundation of what would become the largest education enrichment company in the world began in the home of a high school math teacher.
The company’s humble beginnings was born out of a father’s love and affection in wanting to see his child succeed in math, a subject that caused some struggle. Toru Kumon began developing materials for his second-grade son, Takeshi. As a teacher, the elder Kumon knew a strong foundation in basic skills was essential for success in higher-level math.
He also believed in three main principles, where learning occurs most efficiently when:
- The level of material being learned corresponds to the students' level of ability;
- The rate of progress is determined by the student, not by the teacher; and
- The material is organized into a naturally coherent, logical progression.
With these principles in mind, Kumon created a series of carefully sequenced materials for his son to do after school. Through daily practice and a commitment to mastering each concept, the young boy improved his math skills and gained the ability to solve math problems well beyond his grade level.
Word quickly spread through his neighbors when they heard about the success of his son and started asking him to work with their children. To meet this spontaneous demand, the first Kumon Center was opened in Mr. Kumon’s home. For the next two years, he refined and formalized the worksheets. In 1958, the Kumon Institute of Education was established with the objective of helping students excel in math and gain a love for learning.
Kumon expanded rapidly through the 1960s. In 1974, the first Kumon Center in North America opened in New York. Canadian operations began six years later with the first center opening in Toronto in 1980. The reading program was established in North America in 1991.
Modern Kumon
Today, Kumon North America comprises about 2,000 Kumon Centers in the U.S. and Canada. The education enrichment industry is worth $23.4 billion in the U.S.
It offers education enrichment in both reading and math. Students who enroll visit the centers once per week and practice at home for 30 minutes per day, per subject, on other days.
It’s a formula that has worked for more than 60 years – and it’s all based on the importance of mastering concepts using worksheets that were developed by a father out of love and concern for his son. This year, Kumon North America launched a new creative campaign that leans into that tradition of practice with the tagline, practice makes possibilitiesTM.
In addition to being a respected education program, Kumon is highly regarded in the franchise world. Kumon has earned a number of industry accolades, including being ranked No. 1 among education franchises on Entrepreneur’s prestigious Franchise 500 list for 24 consecutive years and in the top 10 for the last five years.
Kumon also attracts top franchise candidates because:
- The Kumon Franchise opportunity is extremely affordable, with a franchise fee of only $2,000 and startup costs of less than $74,000. U.S. franchises also are eligible for generous financial incentives worth up to $38,700, and veterans may qualify for a $10,000 bonus.
- The Kumon business model promotes steady enrollment, and therefore, steady revenue. Because Kumon offers enrichment programming rather than tutoring, student enrollment doesn’t fluctuate as much as it does in tutoring centers, where kids tend to drop out of programs after catching up or passing a big test.
- Franchise owners find operating a Kumon Center to be personally fulfilling, as they can see how their work makes a difference in the lives of children in their communities.
Who Is Kumon Looking For?
Kumon Instructors are a diverse group: They are former teachers, engineers and IT professionals. They are Asian and Hispanic, Black and white. They are smart and educated: Candidates must hold at least a bachelor’s degree, and as instructors, they must be proficient in math and reading.
Kumon’s proven business model, affordable cost, extensive training and support programs have positioned it at the top of the education franchise world. Kumon is currently recruiting instructors who want to own and operate a profitable business and make a lasting, positive impact on children in their communities.
KUMON FACTS
Founded: 1958 in Japan
Kumon Centers Worldwide: 51 countries and regions
Kumon Can Help a Child:
- Increase confidence
- Cultivate self-motivation
- Develop critical thinking and analytical skills
- Strengthen concentration
- Build problem-solving skills
Subjects Covered:
Math and Reading
Preschool to High School
Levels:
Contact information
Media Contacts:
Sandra Horan - shoran@curiousjane.com
Jeremy Maready - jmaready@curiousjane.com
Consumer Website: kumon.com
Franchise Website: kumonfranchise.com
Facebook Community: facebook.com/kumon
Consumer Blog: kumon.com/resources
Franchise Blog: kumonfranchise.com/newsroom
YouTube: youtube.com/kumon
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kumon
Worldwide 26,000
United States 1,600
Canada 400
Number of Kumon Centers:
Number of Kumon Students:
Worldwide 4.3 million
North America 410,592*
United States 286,286*
KUMON BIOS
Angelo Chavez
Assistant Vice President of Franchise Development
Education: Bachelor of science (Major: business, management and marketing)
Experience: Chavez has been with Kumon since 1995 and began his career with the company in franchise operations, overseeing the operations for 150 learning centers throughout New York and Connecticut. He worked in corporate planning from 2001 to 2004, branding from 2004 to 2012, business development from 2012 through 2019, and manager of Ridgefield Park Branch Office from 2019 to 2021. He most recently served as the manager of Kumon’s Northeast Branch Office, which serves the New Jersey, New York, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont locations.
Duties: In this position, Chavez is responsible for market research and expansion strategy, franchise recruitment, franchisee support and resale strategy.
Thoughts on Kumon: What sets Kumon apart is its unique approach to learning. Each student begins their academic journey at Kumon with a plan tailored to their specific needs. This is based on an initial placement assessment, which ensures students start at a comfortable level, build confidence and progress at their own pace.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Kumon provides a powerful opportunity to make a meaningful impact. With a proven learning system that has transformed the lives of millions of children globally, Kumon oWers one of the lowest franchise fees in the industry, along with significant incentives to support new franchisees in the U.S. and Canada.
Our franchisees come from diverse professional backgrounds, so having prior teaching or education experience is not required. If you are passionate about education and are eager to have a positive impact on future generations, Kumon offers a rewarding path to business ownership through franchising.
Craig Mayer
Canadian Manager of Centre Network Development
Education: Bachelor of arts (Major: political science, Minor: economics)
Experience: Toronto branch manager 2011-2017; manager, area development 2017-2019; manager, franchise recruitment and area development (2021 department name change to CND) 2019-current
Duties: National manager for Canada’s research and analysis of new markets for expansion and recruitment of franchisees for new and resale opportunities. His team includes three recruiters and one area development specialist.
Thoughts on Kumon: The best part about Kumon for students is that it doesn’t matter what level they are learning at, Kumon works for them with an individualized plan. There is no judgement, just the intention to help them achieve to their maximum ability.
From the business side, we offer people from all walks of life, the ability to follow their passions and start a business that can really make difference in the lives of children. COVID has affected everyone in the world differently, but children’s education has been impacted more than anyone can fathom. Being part of the solution to bridge learning gaps and set children up for future success is something I’m proud to be part of. Additionally, the low cost of entry allows for individuals to spend less money opening their business and a faster turnaround to break-even and profitability.
Mike Shim
Senior Vice President of Field Operations
Education: Bachelor of science in mathematics and statistics
Experience: Joined Kumon in March 1992. Started as a field consultant specializing in math, instruction manager, branch manager, general manager, president of Kumon Canada. Worked in Teaneck, New Jersey as general manager of the U.S. East region. Worked in London, United Kingdom as vice president of field operations for Kumon Europe and Africa.
Duties: Supports general managers in four regions in the U.S. as well as the general manager in Canada to increase student enrollment. Provides support for Kumon’s franchise recruitment team to open more Kumon centers and increase student enrollment.
Thoughts on Kumon: Kumon provides the skills for children to develop strong independent skills which leads to a love of learning. Not many programs can develop students to study high school math at an early age due to the skills we give students.
The Kumon business is rewarding due to the change we can make to the leaders of tomorrow, our children. The success of children leads to success in business. The Kumon business is about pursuing the potential in people, both the child’s potential and the potential of business owners to strive to be the best educator for our children.
KUMON'S STORY
RECENT NEWS
AND TRENDS
BOILERPLATES
BOILERPLATE – U.S.
About Kumon Franchise
In business for over 65 years, Kumon has ranked No. 1 in the education category of Entrepreneur magazine’s prestigious Franchise 500® for 24 consecutive years and the Top 10 overall for five years. Investment starts at less than $74,000 and Kumon offers up to $38,700 in incentives in the U.S.; veterans may qualify for a $10,000 bonus. Opening a Kumon Franchise is ideal for individuals with a passion for education and for helping kids. See if a Kumon Franchise is right for you.
BOILERPLATE – CANADA
About Kumon Franchise
In business for over 65 years, Kumon has ranked No. 1 in the education category of Entrepreneur magazine’s prestigious Franchise 500® for 24 consecutive years and the Top 10 overall for five years. Investment starts at less than $60,000 and Kumon oWers up to $29,777 in incentives in Canada. Opening a Kumon Franchise is ideal for individuals with a passion for education and for helping kids. See if a Kumon Franchise is right for you.
Teachers leaving the classroom are searching for new careers and business opportunities. For many of them, Kumon offers a perfect solution.
Education franchises are growing in popularity faster than ever since the pandemic. Not only are parents worried that their kids fell behind and want to help them catch up, but also they want to ensure they have every advantage as they move into high school, college and the workplace.
Low-cost franchises are always popular. Kumon is the top franchise under $100,000, with a franchise fee of only $2,000.
MEDIA
RESOURCES
KUMON FACTS
Founded: 1958 in Japan
Kumon Centers Worldwide: 51 countries and regions
Kumon Can Help a Child:
- Increase confidence
- Cultivate self-motivation
- Develop critical thinking and analytical skills
- Strengthen concentration
- Build problem-solving skills
Subjects Covered:
Math and Reading
Preschool to High School
Levels:
Contact information
Media Contacts:
Sandra Horan - shoran@curiousjane.com
Jeremy Maready - jmaready@curiousjane.com
Consumer Website: kumon.com
Franchise Website: kumonfranchise.com
Facebook Community: facebook.com/kumon
Consumer Blog: kumon.com/resources
Franchise Blog: kumonfranchise.com/newsroom
YouTube: youtube.com/kumon
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kumon
Worldwide 26,000
United States 1,600
Canada 400
Number of Kumon Centers:
Number of Kumon Students:
Worldwide 4.3 million
North America 410,592*
United States 286,286*
RECENT NEWS
AND TRENDS
Teachers leaving the classroom are searching for new careers and business opportunities. For many of them, Kumon offers a perfect solution.
Education franchises are growing in popularity faster than ever since the pandemic. Not only are parents worried that their kids fell behind and want to help them catch up, but also they want to ensure they have every advantage as they move into high school, college and the workplace.
Low-cost franchises are always popular. Kumon is the top franchise under $100,000, with a franchise fee of only $2,000.
KUMON'S STORY
In 1954, the foundation of what would become the largest education enrichment company in the world began in the home of a high school math teacher.
The company’s humble beginnings was born out of a father’s love and affection in wanting to see his child succeed in math, a subject that caused some struggle. Toru Kumon began developing materials for his second-grade son, Takeshi. As a teacher, the elder Kumon knew a strong foundation in basic skills was essential for success in higher-level math.
He also believed in three main principles, where learning occurs most efficiently when:
- The level of material being learned corresponds to the students' level of ability;
- The rate of progress is determined by the student, not by the teacher; and
- The material is organized into a naturally coherent, logical progression.
With these principles in mind, Kumon created a series of carefully sequenced materials for his son to do after school. Through daily practice and a commitment to mastering each concept, the young boy improved his math skills and gained the ability to solve math problems well beyond his grade level.
Word quickly spread through his neighbors when they heard about the success of his son and started asking him to work with their children. To meet this spontaneous demand, the first Kumon Center was opened in Mr. Kumon’s home. For the next two years, he refined and formalized the worksheets. In 1958, the Kumon Institute of Education was established with the objective of helping students excel in math and gain a love for learning.
Kumon expanded rapidly through the 1960s. In 1974, the first Kumon Center in North America opened in New York. Canadian operations began six years later with the first center opening in Toronto in 1980. The reading program was established in North America in 1991.
Modern Kumon
Today, Kumon North America comprises about 2,000 Kumon Centers in the U.S. and Canada. The education enrichment industry is worth $23.4 billion in the U.S.
It offers education enrichment in both reading and math. Students who enroll visit the centers once per week and practice at home for 30 minutes per day, per subject, on other days.
It’s a formula that has worked for more than 60 years – and it’s all based on the importance of mastering concepts using worksheets that were developed by a father out of love and concern for his son. This year, Kumon North America launched a new creative campaign that leans into that tradition of practice with the tagline, practice makes possibilitiesTM.
In addition to being a respected education program, Kumon is highly regarded in the franchise world. Kumon has earned a number of industry accolades, including being ranked No. 1 among education franchises on Entrepreneur’s prestigious Franchise 500 list for 24 consecutive years and in the top 10 for the last five years.
Kumon also attracts top franchise candidates because:
- The Kumon Franchise opportunity is extremely affordable, with a franchise fee of only $2,000 and startup costs of less than $74,000. U.S. franchises also are eligible for generous financial incentives worth up to $38,700, and veterans may qualify for a $10,000 bonus.
- The Kumon business model promotes steady enrollment, and therefore, steady revenue. Because Kumon offers enrichment programming rather than tutoring, student enrollment doesn’t fluctuate as much as it does in tutoring centers, where kids tend to drop out of programs after catching up or passing a big test.
- Franchise owners find operating a Kumon Center to be personally fulfilling, as they can see how their work makes a difference in the lives of children in their communities.
Who Is Kumon Looking For?
Kumon Instructors are a diverse group: They are former teachers, engineers and IT professionals. They are Asian and Hispanic, Black and white. They are smart and educated: Candidates must hold at least a bachelor’s degree, and as instructors, they must be proficient in math and reading.
Kumon’s proven business model, affordable cost, extensive training and support programs have positioned it at the top of the education franchise world. Kumon is currently recruiting instructors who want to own and operate a profitable business and make a lasting, positive impact on children in their communities.
BOILERPLATES
BOILERPLATE – U.S.
About Kumon Franchise
In business for over 65 years, Kumon has ranked No. 1 in the education category of Entrepreneur magazine’s prestigious Franchise 500® for 24 consecutive years and the Top 10 overall for five years. Investment starts at less than $74,000 and Kumon offers up to $38,700 in incentives in the U.S.; veterans may qualify for a $10,000 bonus. Opening a Kumon Franchise is ideal for individuals with a passion for education and for helping kids. See if a Kumon Franchise is right for you.
BOILERPLATE – CANADA
About Kumon Franchise
In business for over 65 years, Kumon has ranked No. 1 in the education category of Entrepreneur magazine’s prestigious Franchise 500® for 24 consecutive years and the Top 10 overall for five years. Investment starts at less than $60,000 and Kumon offers up to $29,777 in incentives in Canada. Opening a Kumon Franchise is ideal for individuals with a passion for education and for helping kids. See if a Kumon Franchise is right for you.
KUMON BIOS
Angelo Chavez
Assistant Vice President of Franchise Development
Education: Bachelor of science (Major: business, management and marketing)
Experience: Chavez has been with Kumon since 1995 and began his career with the company in franchise operations, overseeing the operations for 150 learning centers throughout New York and Connecticut. He worked in corporate planning from 2001 to 2004, branding from 2004 to 2012, business development from 2012 through 2019, and manager of Ridgefield Park Branch Office from 2019 to 2021. He most recently served as the manager of Kumon’s Northeast Branch Office, which serves the New Jersey, New York, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont locations.
Duties: In this position, Chavez is responsible for market research and expansion strategy, franchise recruitment, franchisee support and resale strategy.
Thoughts on Kumon: What sets Kumon apart is its unique approach to learning. Each student begins their academic journey at Kumon with a plan tailored to their specific needs. This is based on an initial placement assessment, which ensures students start at a comfortable level, build confidence and progress at their own pac
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Kumon provides a powerful opportunity to make a meaningful impact. With a proven learning system that has transformed the lives of millions of children globally, Kumon offers one of the lowest franchise fees in the industry, along with significant incentives to support new franchisees in the U.S. and Canada.
Our franchisees come from diverse professional backgrounds, so having prior teaching or education experience is not required. If you are passionate about education and are eager to have a positive impact on future generations, Kumon offers a rewarding path to business ownership through franchising.
Craig Mayer
Canadian Manager of Centre Network Development
Education: Bachelor of arts (Major: political science, Minor: economics)
Experience: Toronto branch manager 2011-2017; manager, area development 2017-2019; manager, franchise recruitment and area development (2021 department name change to CND) 2019-current
Duties: National manager for Canada’s research and analysis of new markets for expansion and recruitment of franchisees for new and resale opportunities. His team includes three recruiters and one area development specialist.
Thoughts on Kumon: The best part about Kumon for students is that it doesn’t matter what level they are learning at, Kumon works for them with an individualized plan. There is no judgement, just the intention to help them achieve to their maximum ability.
From the business side, we offer people from all walks of life, the ability to follow their passions and start a business that can really make difference in the lives of children. COVID has affected everyone in the world differently, but children’s education has been impacted more than anyone can fathom. Being part of the solution to bridge learning gaps and set children up for future success is something I’m proud to be part of. Additionally, the low cost of entry allows for individuals to spend less money opening their business and a faster turnaround to break-even and profitability.
Mike Shim
Senior Vice President of Field Operations
Education: Bachelor of science in mathematics and statistics
Experience: Joined Kumon in March 1992. Started as a field consultant specializing in math, instruction manager, branch manager, general manager, president of Kumon Canada. Worked in Teaneck, New Jersey as general manager of the U.S. East region. Worked in London, United Kingdom as vice president of field operations for Kumon Europe and Africa.
Duties: Supports general managers in four regions in the U.S. as well as the general manager in Canada to increase student enrollment. Provides support for Kumon’s franchise recruitment team to open more Kumon centers and increase student enrollment.
Thoughts on Kumon: Kumon provides the skills for children to develop strong independent skills which leads to a love of learning. Not many programs can develop students to study high school math at an early age due to the skills we give students.
The Kumon business is rewarding due to the change we can make to the leaders of tomorrow, our children. The success of children leads to success in business. The Kumon business is about pursuing the potential in people, both the child’s potential and the potential of business owners to strive to be the best educator for our children.
