What if you could change your community, support underfunded schools, and run a local business—all at the same time? An Apex Leadership Franchise, offers that opportunity.
This unique school fundraising franchise is rewriting the rules of youth-focused business ownership. Combining character-based fitness events with high-impact leadership programs, Apex provides programs designed to benefit students, schools, and local owners alike. If you’re seeking a franchise that offers purpose, operational scalability, and streamlined onboarding (launch timing varies by market), Apex Leadership Co. could be your next great move.
In this article, we explore the company’s roots, its community impact, and why Apex stands out in the world of franchising.
This article is sponsored by Apex Leadership. The content has been created in partnership with the brand to provide insights into its business model and franchise opportunities.
A Mission-Driven Business Model.
Apex Leadership Co. was founded in 2011 by a CPA who had seen firsthand the struggles schools face when it comes to fundraising. The concept? Ditch traditional product sales in favor of dynamic, engaging, fitness-based fundraising events that promote character development, leadership, and wellness.
From fun runs and glow runs to remix dance events and color battles, Apex events are designed to be exciting, inclusive, and educational. Each campaign typically runs for two weeks and culminates in a major event where students raise pledges per lap or activity. Results vary by school and market; some schools have reported raising more than with traditional product sales, but outcomes are not guaranteed. See the brand’s current FDD for details and any Financial Performance Representation (Item 19), if provided.
Since its first franchise launched in 2012, Apex has grown into a powerhouse in youth fundraising, operating in over 100 territories across 33 states (as reported by the brand; figures may change). The brand’s tagline, Invest in yourself today to create a leader tomorrow, captures its core mission—empowering the next generation.
More Than Fundraising: A Leadership Experience for Kids.
At the heart of this business is a commitment to helping children become better leaders. Each Apex event includes a character-building curriculum, tailored for elementary and middle school students. Lessons emphasize core values like integrity, gratitude, and perseverance, taught through daily themes and classroom visits.
This sets Apex apart. Rather than just raising money, the program teaches life skills. And in doing so, it creates a strong emotional bond between the schools and the brand—encouraging many schools to rebook in subsequent years (actual rebooking varies by market, school, and execution).
A Day in the Life of an Apex Leadership Franchise Owner.
Running this business doesn’t mean hosting school events yourself. Apex franchisees act more like regional operators and brand ambassadors.
Your typical day may include:
- Meeting with school principals, PTOs, and team coaches to pitch events
- Hiring and training your event team
- Managing inventory like prizes and marketing supplies
- Overseeing event performance and setting pledge goals
- Handling scheduling, communications, and finances
This is a people-first business. You’re not stuck behind a desk; you’re in your community, building relationships, and making a difference. That community involvement is part of what gives the brand its staying power.
The Market Opportunity: Growing, Differentiated, and Underserved.
School fundraising is a significant and evolving space in the U.S. Yet, much of it remains dominated by traditional product sales and donation drives. Apex offers a different approach—in-person, high-energy events that provide clear value to schools, parents, and students.
With few direct competitors offering the same combination of fitness, leadership, and turnkey fundraising, Apex holds a distinctive position in this sector. Demand can be seasonal and relationship-driven, and many franchisees build meaningful repeat business with returning schools over time; revenue mix and recurrence vary by territory and operator.
A Streamlined Model with a Lean Footprint.
One of the most appealing aspects of Apex Leadership Franchise is its simplicity. This is a home-based business with flexible staffing and no dedicated retail space. That can help keep fixed facility needs low and make it easier to expand as local demand grows (staffing and cost structure vary by market).
Franchisees benefit from:
- Protected territories.
- A proven event system and operational playbook.
- Apex University: 31 hours of classroom and 24 hours of on-the-job training
- A dedicated franchise business coach.
- Custom-built technology for donor management, scheduling, and communications
- National brand marketing and materials.
The model supports both full-time operators and those planning multi-territory expansion.
Initial Investment Breakdown for a Apex Leadership Franchise.
Below is a breakdown of the estimated startup costs for an Apex Leadership Franchise, based on the brand’s Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD):
Initial Investment Table
| Type of Expenditure | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $49,500* | $49,500* |
| Territory Reservation | $0* | $10,000* |
| Initial Training Fee | $10,000* | $10,000* |
| Vehicle | $0* | $3,000* |
| Trailer | $4,000* | $8,000* |
| Computer System | $0* | $1,000* |
| Other Equipment | $8,000* | $17,000* |
| Storage | $0* | $200* |
| Local Marketing | $1,500* | $3,000* |
| Insurance Premiums | $500* | $4,500* |
| Professional Services Fees | $500* | $3,000* |
| Travel & Living (During Training) | $2,000* | $5,000* |
| Amply Platform | $0* | $500* |
| Rental Team | $0* | $5,000* |
| Additional Funds (3 Months) | $10,500* | $15,000* |
| Total Estimated Investment | $86,000* | $134,700* |
Who Makes a Great Franchisee?
This business is ideal for people who are:
- Outgoing and community-focused
- Comfortable with B2B sales and school outreach
- Experienced in coaching, teaching, or youth programming
- Looking for a flexible, purpose-driven business
- Passionate about making an impact in children’s lives
You don’t need prior experience in fundraising or fitness. The franchise provides tools and training to help you get started.
Is Apex Leadership Co. Right for You?
The Apex Leadership Franchise offers a rare combination of mission, momentum, and market presence. It’s more than a business—it’s a movement. With a repeatable model, community demand that can build over time, and a clear differentiator in the youth fundraising space, this franchise is built to serve and grow—recognizing that results vary by operator, territory, and school engagement.
If you’re an entrepreneur looking for a fulfilling venture that blends service, leadership, and business ownership, Apex Leadership Co. may be the right fit.
Ready to take the next step? The Franchise Brokers Association is here to help guide you on your journey into the franchise world.
