Whether you operate a single campus or a multi-state network, we connect you with brokers who understand accreditation, Title IV funding, and student retention.
Selling a trade school involves valuing intellectual property (curriculum), regulatory approvals (accreditation), and tangible assets (training equipment). Buyers are looking for compliant, profitable institutions.
We start by analyzing your program mix (HVAC, welding, nursing, cosmetology), student population, and regulatory standing. Are you Title IV eligible? Is your accreditation in good standing?
From there, we identify business brokers who specialize in the post-secondary education market. Some are experts in selling smaller, cash-pay vocational programs, while others work with large private equity firms aggregating accredited colleges.
• Accreditation & Licensing – Holding valid national or regional accreditation (ACCSC, COE, ABHES) is a massive value driver.
• Title IV Eligibility – Schools approved to participate in federal financial aid programs command premium multiples.
• Student Outcomes – High placement rates and low default rates demonstrate program quality and regulatory compliance.
• Curriculum & IP – Proprietary, up-to-date curriculum that meets industry standards is a valuable asset.
Selling an educational institution requires meticulous record-keeping, from student transcripts to faculty credentials.
Trade schools are generally valued on a multiple of EBITDA. Schools with consistent enrollment growth and high student retention receive higher multiples.
We work with business brokers who will help you prepare your "composite score" (financial responsibility ratio) and other key metrics that sophisticated buyers will scrutinize.
Unlike standard businesses, selling a school requires approval from accrediting bodies and the Department of Education.
Our partner brokers are experienced in managing the "Change of Ownership" process to ensure a smooth transition of licenses and accreditation to the new owner.
$3.5 Million in 6 Months
“Six months after partnering with Centergrowth, we secured over $3.5 million worth of listings in Florida.”
"In our first six months with Centergrowth, we secured over $3.5 million in high-quality listings across Florida. One of them received over 40 inquiries in just two days."
Joe Ram
Orlando, FL
@FL Business Brokers
3 Listings in 2 Months
“Within the first two months of partnering with Centergrowth, we secured three business listings in the Phoenix area.”
"Within the first two months of partnering with Centergrowth, we secured three business listings in the Phoenix area. Centergrowth has delivered tremendous value, and we’re thrilled with the results. We look forward to continuing our partnership and future success."
Dr. Fernando Acosta
Phoenix, AZ
@First Choice Brokers
2 Listings in 2 Weeks
“Within just two weeks of partnering with Centergrowth, I secured two business listings in my area of Pittsburgh.”
"Within just two weeks of partnering with Centergrowth, I secured two business listings in my area of Pittsburgh, one of which included real estate in the deal. We're very happy with the results and have already recommended Centergrowth to other industry brokers we know in different states."
Helen Berger
Pittsburgh, PA
@PGHBIZ Business Brokers
1 Listing in First Month
“It’s currently the first month of working with Centergrowth, and we’ve already signed our first listing.”
"It’s currently the first month of working with Centergrowth, and we’ve already signed our first listing. In addition, they’ve over-delivered on appointments, and we’re reviewing financials from a few more companies."
Russell Kitzberger
Cincinnati, OH
@CincyCRE
1,065 Appointments in 6 months
"Centergrowth booked over 480 appointments in 3 months directly onto our calendar."
Eurasian Capital was facing a number of difficulties as they tried to increase their top-of-funnel sales activity. They can only function with top-notch appointments (the majority of the time, funding has been successfully raised), but Centergrowth was consistently able to attract high-quality appointments from the beginning.
Jeff Stone
Partner @Eurasian Capital
If you are exploring a sale now or in the next few years, your first move should be speaking with someone who understands the education industry.
On our first call, we will discuss your enrollment, accreditation, and exit goals. From there, we will suggest one or more brokers or M&A advisors who are best positioned to sell your specific type of trade school.
Centergrowth works with specialized Trade School Business Brokers in every state to help owners of vocational colleges, technical institutes, and career training centers sell efficiently, confidentially, and for maximum value.
Don't see your specific niche listed? We likely still cover it.
Discuss Your IndustryCentergrowth supports trade schools nationwide, making it easy to sell whether you run a small local program or a large multi-campus institution.
If you’re a broker specializing in trades schools, our business broker lead generation can put more qualified business owners into your pipeline each week.
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