Step 1

Decide what type of learning center you want to start. Many people decide to work only with children or adults. Others want to offer services for all age groups, including literacy programs, test preparation and early childhood development at their center.

Step 2

Learn the laws in the community that will apply to setting up a learning center. Many states require certain educational certifications and licenses for people supervising learning centers. Certifications determine whether or not the center can work with local schools and universities. Check out your state's Department of Education to find information on certifications and licenses needed.

Step 3

Construct a website and get a domain name. Keep the domain name simple, with words that are searchable on Internet search engines. Constructing a website is important whether or not a person is offering online services, because the Internet is often the first place people look for educational services.

Step 4

Open a franchise of an established learning center. Sylvan Learning Center offers franchise opportunities for people interested in starting a learning center. Starting a franchise of a well-known company with a positive reputation saves people from having to establish a name.

Step 5

Make business cards and letterheads. Even if the business is in its infancy, a professional presence is necessary to gain credibility in the community. Leave business cards at various schools to obtain clientele.

Step 6

Advertise that a learning center is opening in the community. Buy ads in local papers and newsletters. Post fliers at local schools and universities. Place a free ad on Craigslist. Send letters or postcards to schools in the area.

Step 7

Hire qualified people to work at the learning center. The tutors and instructors working at the center should at least have bachelor's degrees in a particular subject area and have certifications outlined by the state or membership in organizations such as the National Tutoring Association. Make sure instructors at the learning center take advantage of additional training programs as well.