The International Franchise Association (IFA) has given the 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year Award to Richard Weissman, the co-founder, Chairman, and CEO of The Learning Experience (TLE), an academy for early education.
This prestigious award highlights Weissman’s dedication to building one of the most successful early childhood education franchises. The company has over 420 locations in 31 U.S. states and three in the U.K.
A Unique Contributor to Early Education Franchising
Weissman has been critical in shaping the possibilities of early childhood education. Under his leadership at TLE, they have set new precedents for childcare services, offering high-quality care with a novel approach to educational curriculum. TLE serves over 50,000 children across the states, demonstrating the need for productive, engaging classrooms.
Weissman’s commitment to growing the business while maintaining excellent education has led The Learning Experience to the top as a leader in early education.
The IFA President and CEO Matt Haller commented, “Richard Weissman’s vision to build one of the most successful and rapidly growing franchises in the early education sector from the ground up is a true testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that defines franchising.”
He also commented on Weissman’s contribution to early childcare, saying, “Through his vision, passion, and dedication to high-quality childcare and innovative educational practices, Richard has not only built a thriving business but has also made a lasting impact on the lives of children, families, and communities.”
A History of Entrepreneurism
Weissman’s entrepreneurial journey began at a young age. He worked at his parents’ own childcare center, gaining experience in how to run a daycare for young children. Later, he and his father acquired an international childcare franchise, which they eventually left.
They then founded The Learning Experience in 2002. Within a year, the business became a franchise, allowing them to quickly expand their efforts to other locations.
Beyond recognition from the IFA, Weissman has also received another notable honor, the Ernst & Young LLP Entrepreneur Of The Year 2023 Florida Award. This award was given by a panel of industry leaders who demonstrate and look for long-term value creation and community impact.
Commitment to Philanthropy and Community Impact
Beyond business growth, Weissman has committed to serving the greater good of his community. He has been a long-standing board member of Make-A-Wish Southern Florida and has led various fundraisers—personally and through The Learning Experience—collectively raising over $5 million for those in need.
At the Entrepreneur of the Year awards ceremony, Weissman pledged a $50,000 donation on behalf of the 22 Florida finalists.
He commented on the donation, “I firmly believe that in order to receive we must give back to our communities, and I feel an immense amount of gratitude that I am fortunate enough to do so through philanthropic efforts both personally and professionally. This foundational belief has not only positively impacted my success but also the success of The Learning Experience.”
Expanding the Franchise
Under Weissman’s leadership, TLE has continued to expand. With over 66% of its centers owned by multi-unit franchisees, the company has maintained a steady growth rate of about 1.5 new centers per week.
In addition to domestic expansion, the franchise entered the U.K. in 2020, establishing the business for further international growth.
Throughout ongoing economic fluctuations and the challenges of a global pandemic starting in 2020, Weissman has continued to steer The Learning Experience toward sustained success.
His strategic planning and adaptability in the marketplace during economic instability have cemented the franchise as a top choice for investors looking to venture into early childhood education.
The franchise has also had a significant impact on its customers since its inception, providing high-quality child care that was created with experience and dedication.
Weissman attributes his success to his supportive and hard-working team. He adds, “I am humbled by a deep understanding of our brand’s far-reaching influence and impact, and my vision is inspired daily by our dedicated franchisees and team members who keep our mission to make a positive difference in the lives of our children, their families, and the communities we serve at the forefront of all that we do and achieve.”
