Steps to Ownership
Our thorough process helps both you and Story Time Chess decide whether we're the right fit. Here's what to expect.
Phase 0: Application Submission
Complete our online application to express your interest in the Story Time Chess franchise opportunity. This is your first step toward building something meaningful.
Phase 1: Initial Screening
We'll introduce you to Story Time Chess and franchising, covering how we hire, market, and sell. We'll also learn about your goals, motivations, and ability to follow our established system.
- •What is Story Time Chess?
- •What is franchising?
- •Your goals and motivations
- •Can you follow a system and protect our brand?
Phase 2: Candidate Assessment
Complete a written questionnaire and personality assessment to help us understand your strengths, working style, and fit with our culture.
- •10-15 question questionnaire
- •Personality assessment
- •Skills and experience evaluation
Phase 3: Operator Interview
A deeper conversation to discuss your assessment results and ensure alignment between what you've shared and what we've observed. This is where we get to know you better.
- •Review questionnaire and assessment results
- •Discuss your vision for the business
- •Evaluate cultural fit and communication style
Phase 4: Pre-Work Submission
Demonstrate your commitment by completing strategic planning work. This shows us you're serious and helps you deeply understand your potential market.
- •Define your target territory
- •Develop your recruiting plan
- •Analyze the competitive landscape
- •Identify opportunities in your market
- •Create your 30/60/90 day sales plan
Why Pre-Work Matters
The pre-work phase demonstrates your commitment and strategic thinking. It helps you understand your market and ensures you're making an informed decision.
Phase 5: References & Background Check
We'll verify your professional references and conduct a background check. This step ensures we're building a network of trusted franchise partners.
- •Professional reference checks
- •Background verification
- •Final qualification review
Phase 6: Family Connection Call
Running a franchise is a family decision. We want to meet your support system and ensure everyone is aligned on the commitment and opportunity ahead.
- •Meet your family or key supporters
- •Discuss time and lifestyle expectations
- •Answer questions from your support network
Phase 7: Discovery Day
Visit us in person to meet the team, observe classes in action, and experience Story Time Chess firsthand. This is your chance to ask detailed questions and see the magic happen.
- •Meet the leadership team
- •Observe live classes
- •Tour operations and systems
- •Final Q&A session
Phase 8: FDD Review Period
You'll receive our Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) with everything you need to evaluate the opportunity. Federal law provides a minimum 14-day review period before any agreement can be signed — take the time to review it with your advisors.
- •Receive the Franchise Disclosure Document
- •Minimum 14-day review period before signing
- •Review with your attorney or financial advisor
- •Get answers to any remaining questions
Phase 9: Territory Awarded
Congratulations! If it's a mutual fit, we'll award your territory and welcome you to the Story Time Chess family. Your journey as a franchise owner officially begins.
- •Franchise agreement signing
- •Territory confirmation
- •Onboarding and training begins
Phase 4: Pre-Work Deep Dive
The pre-work phase is where you demonstrate your commitment and strategic thinking. Complete these 5 deliverables to show us you're ready:
Territory Definition
Define your target territory with specific zip codes, demographics, and school counts.
Recruiting Plan
Outline your strategy for hiring and building a team of exceptional tutors.
Competitive Analysis
Research the competitive landscape and identify what sets you apart in your market.
Market Opportunities
Identify key opportunities including schools, libraries, community centers, and partnerships.
30/60/90 Day Sales Plan
Create a detailed roadmap for your first 90 days of business development and sales.
What We're Looking For
- • Strategic thinking and market awareness
- • Ability to follow a system and protect our brand
- • Strong communication and leadership skills
- • Genuine enthusiasm for children's education
- • Commitment to excellence and continuous improvement
Typical Timeline
From initial inquiry to launching your first classes.