Nanette D, CEO, Brainworks

Brainworks, a national chain of pre schools is known for its stimulating learning environment and eclectic approach towards overall development of the children. In an interview, Nanette D’sa, CEO, Brainworks shares the future plans of the company.  

Ramanjit Kaur (RK): Shed some light on the inception of Brainworks?

Nanette D’sa (ND): Brainworks is promoted by a leading education company ‘Better Value Brands’. Brainworks started its first school in 2008 and two years later it has seen a phenomenal response for its curriculum, and methodology that made a significant impact on the development of the child.

RK: What inspired Brainworks to take the franchise route to expand the business in India?

ND: Brainworks is about empowering women for the development of children. Several women entrepreneurs have the aspiration of running a pre-school and just need the support in terms of curriculum, training, marketing, centre set up etc to turn their dreams into reality. After the launch of our schools across three cities, we had several enquiries from prospective partners and that is how the franchise business was born. Currently, Brainworks operates in India only but there are enquiries beyond India and we would like to expand further. 

RK: What is the USP of Brainworks?

ND: Brainworks depends on a well-researched curriculum, process driven teaching methodology, scientific educational aids, and a structured programme to ensure maximum mental development in children during the pre-school years.  

RK: What practices and initiatives have you introduced at Brainworks?

ND: The key focus at Brainworks is the child and the mother. There is utmost concern for the well being of the child covering all aspects of emotional, physical safety whilst ensuring all round growth of the child. To ensure the well being of the child there are standard practices followed at each centre.   

RK: What are the eligibility criteria for selecting the franchisees of the company?

ND: The franchisee needs to be passionate about children and the business of education and should look at it as a long term opportunity. With a minimal investment of around Rs eight lakh and an adequate space the potential partner would be ready to start.  

RK: How many franchised outlets does the company currently has?

ND: We have more than 40 centres across ten cities, with 26 of these centres being franchised.

RK: What kind of training and support does a franchisee get after partnering with the company?

ND: We provide training like:

• Setting up the centre, design layout, furniture, fixtures, assistance in procurement of resources
• Recruiting, training and managing people
• Running of the centre
• Assistance in admissions, local promotions, marketing support
• Launching of new product, hobby classes etc.

RK: Have you faced any challenges while establishing your business? If yes, what were they and how did you overcome these challenges?

ND: There are several challenges in a business where one is dealing with little kids and their mothers. Ensuring the running of the centre in the specified manner, recruitment and training of centre personnel are the two areas that need constant supervision and support.  In order to ensure that the centre runs as per the specified norms, there are periodical audits of processes and classroom delivery.  For recruitment there is a process laid down to ensure that those recruited have the required skills, attitude and educational background. 

RK: Any advice for the young entrepreneurs?

ND: If you are looking for the most rewarding and enriching option for starting a business, then your search ends here, as Brainworks offers you a low risk business with endless opportunities for growth. 

RK: What are the future plans of the company in terms of expansion through franchising?

ND: The plans are to consolidate the existing business and expand to new cities, invest in building the brand. We further have plans to expand to 20 cities and to around 100 centres in the coming year.