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What is iCode?

iCode is a STEM and coding franchise built for kids and teens, delivered through after-school programs, camps, and virtual classes. Rather than teaching one-off coding lessons, iCode uses a structured, martial-arts-style belt system that takes students from their very first exposure to computers all the way through advanced, portfolio-ready technical projects — while building the soft skills, like communication and teamwork, that employers consistently say technical hires are missing.

For prospective franchisees, iCode represents a proven, structured business model built around a proprietary curriculum, a recognizable brand, and a growing base of over 120 locations across 26 states.

The Belt System: How Students Progress

Every iCode student advances through a sequence of belts, similar to a martial arts program, with each level tied to a specific age range and skill set. This keeps content age-appropriate while giving students (and parents) a visible sense of progress:

  • Junior Belt (ages 5–7) — STEAM fundamentals and an introduction to Scratch programming
  • Foundation Belt (ages 6–8) — basic game development and programming fundamentals
  • White Belt (ages 8–11) — robotics and programming with VEX IQ, 3D modeling and printing
  • Orange Belt (ages 8–11) — web development, JavaScript, and graphic design
  • Yellow Belt (ages 9–12) — mobile app development using C# and Visual Studio
  • Green Belt (ages 10–13) — Python programming, drone coding, data science, and an introduction to AI
  • Red Belt (ages 11–15) — game development in Unreal Engine 5
  • Blue Belt (ages 11–15) — networking and cybersecurity fundamentals, Linux/Unix systems
  • Black Belt (ages 13+) — Java application development with object-oriented design

Every belt level pairs its technical curriculum with soft-skills development — collaboration, critical thinking, and presentation ability — so students leave with more than just a technical portfolio.

Backed by Real Accreditation

iCode’s curriculum is accredited by STEM.org, the longest continually-operating, privately-held STEM education research and credentialing organization in the United States. Students who complete iCode programs can earn blockchain-verified certificates, giving families tangible proof of what their child has learned and accomplished.

What the iCode Learning Environment Looks Like

iCode campuses are built around small-group “hubs” rather than traditional classrooms, since kids learn best when they can collaborate closely and see the real-world relevance of what they’re building. Hubs are outfitted with real industry tools through iCode’s partnerships — drones through DJI, robotics kits through VEX, and calculators and STEM hardware through Texas Instruments, among others. The goal is a space that feels more like a startup than an after-school daycare, which is a large part of why student retention and enthusiasm stay high.

Built on Real Classroom Experience

iCode was founded in September 2015 by Abid Abedi, who built the company around two observations from his own life: kids need an after-school environment they genuinely want to spend time in, and technical professionals need soft skills alongside coding ability to succeed in the workplace. You can read more about Abid’s story and the founding of iCode and the leadership team driving the brand today.

Multiple Revenue Streams for Franchisees

iCode franchisees aren’t limited to one income source. Beyond core after-school classes and camps, franchise owners can generate revenue through virtual classes, off-site partnership programs, and the after-school Tech Club run directly on ISD and private school campuses — several franchisees start generating revenue before their physical campus is even built. You can see the full breakdown on the Revenue Streams and Revenue Potential pages.

Why Families Choose iCode

Parents consistently point to the same reasons for enrolling their kids at iCode: a curriculum that evolves with real technology trends (built by computer scientists and instructional designers, not a static workbook), visible progress through the belt system, and an environment where kids genuinely want to stay longer. Read more on the Why Parents Love iCode page, or hear directly from owners on the Franchisee Testimonials page.

The iCode Franchise Opportunity

iCode is set up for franchisees who want a business built on a proven curriculum and brand rather than starting from scratch. The company looks for owners who bring drive and a genuine interest in their community, not necessarily a technical or teaching background — the training and curriculum are designed to cover that. For full financial details, see the Startup Investment and Financing pages.

How to Get an iCode Franchise

iCode’s franchise process is designed to make sure it’s the right fit on both sides before anyone commits. At a glance, the process looks like this:

  • Get Connected — start with the online contact form for a general overview of the company and available resources
  • Review the FDD — receive the Franchise Disclosure Document, the FTC-mandated document covering the full details of the business
  • Detailed Discussions — dig into every aspect of the business before deciding whether to move forward
  • Discovery Day — meet the corporate support team in person at headquarters, ask questions, and build the relationship
  • Decision Time — once you have what you need, make the call on moving forward together

Once you’re ready to see the full discovery timeline, visit the Next Steps page. To check whether your area is open, see Available Territories.

Learn More

You can also explore what makes iCode a unique franchise opportunity, review revenue potential, or read franchisee testimonials from current owners. Have questions first? Visit the FAQ page.