THE BOLDEST NEW IDEAS IN FRANCHISING

These eight innovative businesses are now franchising-and maybe in a few years, they'll be climbing the Franchise 500 list too.

- SOFIA WOLFSON

A school for new moms!

It's not easy being a new mom-which is why, in 2012, Alexandra Spitz created New Mom School to provide emotional and educational support during the postpartum period. The eight-week course includes wellness speakers, a research-based curriculum, and other forms of support such as free breastfeeding classes and a 24/7 exclusive digital community. Spitz created the company after what she calls her own "challenging experience as a new mother," and her goal is to "focus on the mental health and well-being of moms, knowing that it directly impacts the health and development of their babies." As of January 2025, New Mom School expects to have eight franchise locations across the U.S., with at least 20 more in the works.

A mobile 3D scanning studio!

Have you ever wanted a statue of yourself? Shrunk 3D can make it. It's a fully mobile 3D scanning studio, which can scan people on the spot and deliver a high-definition, detailed 3D statue. (It can also create replicas of athletes, influencers, or whomever a customer wants.) The studios often operate outside of events, where people are looking to capture memories and take home something unique. By January 2025, Shrunk 3D expects to have 65 franchisees operating across the U.S. It has nationwide partnerships with universities, "Name, Image, and Likeness" (NIL) deals with athletes, and is developing several new products, including bobbleheads.

Plant-based treats!