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Topgolf Franchise Cost and The Full Guide to Starting in 2025

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April 22, 2025
Topgolf Franchise Cost
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If you’ve ever been to Topgolf, you already know, it is more than just a driving range. It is where golf meets fun, food, and music. A place where people come together to play, laugh, eat, and celebrate. That unique mix of sport and social makes Topgolf one of the most exciting business opportunities in the entertainment world today.

Naturally, many entrepreneurs want in. But before you jump in, there’s one big question to answer: What is the real Topgolf franchise cost? Spoiler alert, it is not cheap. This isn’t a small kiosk or a café. It is a high-end entertainment venue that takes serious planning, money, and commitment.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know from how much it costs to open a Topgolf venue to whether they offer franchises, and what your options are if you’re serious about owning one. We’ll also look at the earning potential, risks, and the alternatives available if you’re not ready to go all-in on a multimillion-dollar investment.

Topgolf franchise cost

Key Takeaways

  • Investing in a Topgolf venue is a bold move that requires deep pockets, operational know-how, and long-term commitment. Success hinges not just on capital, but on strategic location, brand alignment, and a clear understanding of the business model.
  • Topgolf doesn’t hand out opportunities lightly, partners are carefully chosen and expected to deliver world-class experiences. Every stage, from planning to grand opening, is driven by precision and brand integrity.
  • For those who qualify, the returns can be significant, offering a high-profile entry into the booming experiential entertainment market. But this is a venture for the few, not the many.
  • Before leaping, ensure your team, funding, and market are all aligned because Topgolf isn’t just a brand; it is a standard.

What is Topgolf?

Topgolf is a modern sports entertainment venue that mixes the fun of a high-tech driving range with the energy of a restaurant, bar, and social lounge, all in one space. Players hit microchipped golf balls at massive targets on the outfield while scores are tracked in real time on digital screens. But golf is just part of the experience.

Designed to be social and inclusive, Topgolf welcomes everyone from first-timers and families to pro-level golfers and corporate groups. With food, drinks, music, and games, it offers a relaxed, lively atmosphere where the focus is just as much on having fun as it is on hitting the ball. Whether you’re there for a birthday party, date night, team outing, or just something different to do, Topgolf turns a traditional sport into an accessible and entertaining experience.

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How Topgolf Makes Money: Inside the Topgolf Business Model

Since its 2000 debut in the UK and U.S. premiere in 2005, Topgolf has expanded to over 80 venues across various continents. Supported by Callaway Golf, it holds a dominant position in the sports entertainment industry and continues to grow by carefully selecting sites and developing based on market needs. 

Top Golf prefers a company-owned model, maintaining strict operational management, in contrast to traditional franchises. 

However, Topgolf isn’t your typical golf range. Its business model combines sports, hospitality, and technology to create a one-of-a-kind customer experience. It is not just about hitting balls; it is about giving people a place to hang out, celebrate, and enjoy life. So, how does it all come together financially?

Here’s a breakdown of the Topgolf business model and the different revenue streams that keep the company swinging strong:

1. Technology-Driven Golf Experiences

At the centre of every Topgolf location is the tech-enabled driving range. Each hitting bay comes equipped with microchipped balls and tracking screens that score every shot. It turns golfing into a game anyone can play, no matter their skill level.

These bays are rented by the hour, and pricing varies based on peak times. For example, weekend evenings cost more than weekday mornings. This flexible pricing model allows Topgolf to maximise revenue during high-demand periods while keeping the space booked during slower hours.

2. Food and Beverage Sales

Topgolf isn’t just a place to swing clubs, it’s a full-on dining experience. Every venue has a kitchen and bar serving everything from sliders and nachos to cocktails and craft beers. And for many guests, the food and drinks are just as big a draw as the games. People order freely while they play, which often results in higher spending per visit.

Food and beverage sales are one of the most profitable revenue streams for Topgolf, often matching or even exceeding earnings from gameplay in some locations.

3. Events and Group Bookings

Topgolf has become a go-to destination for all kinds of group events, corporate team-building sessions, birthday celebrations, bachelor parties, and more. The company offers curated packages that include bay time, food, drinks, and sometimes even a dedicated host.

These events typically bring in higher revenue per guest than casual walk-ins because of the bundled services. More importantly, they help fill out the calendar during non-peak hours, ensuring a steady flow of income throughout the week.

4. Memberships and Loyalty Programs

To keep people coming back, Topgolf offers memberships and loyalty perks. Some locations provide monthly memberships with benefits like unlimited gameplay during specific hours or priority bookings.

These programmes not only create a sense of exclusivity but also provide predictable, recurring revenue. And because loyal customers tend to spend more on food, drinks, and merchandise over time, the lifetime value of each member increases significantly.

5. Retail and Merchandise

While not the main attraction, Topgolf-branded merchandise adds another revenue layer. Visitors can buy caps, shirts, golf gloves, and other branded items either in-store or online. While the margins might be smaller compared to other streams, merchandise helps extend the brand experience beyond the venue and supports customer loyalty.

6. Sponsorships and Partnerships

Topgolf has tapped into the power of strategic partnerships to boost its business model. Its merger with Callaway Golf, for example, has opened the door for equipment integration, co-branded content, and cross-promotional opportunities.

These partnerships often bring in additional revenue through sponsorship deals and shared ventures, while also enhancing the customer experience with better gear and more exposure.

Can You Franchise Topgolf in 2025?

If you’ve been thinking about investing in a Topgolf location, you’re probably wondering: Can I own a Topgolf franchise in 2025?

The short answer? Not in the traditional sense, at least not in the U.S. or most developed markets.

Topgolf operates under a corporate ownership model in its core regions. This means the majority of locations are owned and run by Topgolf itself, now a subsidiary of Callaway Golf Company, officially merged in 2021 under the parent company Topgolf Callaway Brands. Instead of franchising like a typical fast-food chain or gym, Topgolf keeps control over its brand, technology, and customer experience by operating venues in-house.

However, that doesn’t mean all hope is lost for aspiring owners. While you can’t traditionally franchise a Topgolf location, there are still some ways to get involved, especially if you’re looking internationally or you have significant investment capital and experience.

Here’s what you can do instead:

1. International Licensing

In markets outside the U.S., Topgolf does offer international licensing agreements. These are similar to franchising but usually involve larger, more complex deals. Interested partners typically need to have deep knowledge of their local market, proven experience operating large-scale leisure or hospitality businesses and the financial capacity to develop multiple venues.

So, if you’re based in a country where Topgolf isn’t yet established and you meet the above criteria, there could be an opportunity to bring the brand into your region through a licensing partnership. These are long-term, high-investment deals that require ongoing collaboration with the Topgolf corporate team.

2. Joint Ventures and Strategic Partnerships

In certain cases, Topgolf partners with third-party developers or investors through joint ventures. These deals are selective and usually geared toward large-scale, high-traffic real estate developments. If you’re a major property developer or part of a group with access to top-tier commercial locations, this could be a door worth knocking on.

Complete Topgolf Franchise Cost Breakdown

Investing in a Topgolf venue in 2025 is a significant financial undertaking. While Topgolf primarily operates company-owned locations, international expansion opportunities exist through licensing agreements. The total investment required varies based on location, size, and market conditions.

Estimated Startup Costs for a Topgolf Venue

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the estimated costs associated with opening a Topgolf venue.

Note: These figures are estimates and can vary based on specific project requirements and local market conditions.

Expense CategoryEstimated Cost (USD)
Land Acquisition$5 million – $15 million
Construction & Build-out$20 million – $30 million
Topgolf Technology & Equipment$5 million – $7 million
Furniture, Fixtures & Signage$1 million – $2 million
Licensing or Partnership FeesNegotiated (est. $1 million+)
Working Capital & Launch Marketing$1 million – $2 million
Total Estimated Investment$35 million – $55 million+

This business idea is a high-investment, high-reward model that is more suitable for institutional partners or financially secure developers than for individual entrepreneurs, given the potential yearly revenues of $15–$25 million and the estimated Return on Investment (ROI) of 5–7 years.

Key Factors Influencing Topgolf Franchise Cost

Understanding the total investment required for a Topgolf venue goes beyond looking at a single number. Several key factors can influence whether your project ends up at the lower or higher end of the estimated $35 million to $55 million+ range. Here’s a closer look at what drives the cost:

1. Location and Land Acquisition

Land cost is one of the most significant variables. Topgolf venues require large plots, usually 10 to 15 acres of flat, easily accessible land. Urban or prime locations near retail, hospitality, or business districts tend to drive better foot traffic, but they come with a much higher price tag. In places like Los Angeles, London, or Dubai, land alone can cost upwards of $10–15 million.

Zoning regulations, permits, environmental impact assessments, and infrastructure upgrades like road access, parking, water, and power supply can also add significantly to your upfront land and prep expenses.

2. Construction and Build-Out

Topgolf venues are large, complex structures typically between 60,000 to 75,000 square feet. The three-level driving range requires heavy steel construction, high ceilings, safety netting, reinforced floors, advanced lighting, and soundproofing.

Then there’s the build-out for kitchens, multiple bars, lounges, rooftop terraces, and event spaces. The quality of finishes, architectural design, and the contractor’s expertise can all affect the cost, which usually falls between $20 million and $30 million.

In markets with extreme weather conditions, additional costs for insulation, HVAC systems, or weatherproofing may also apply.

3. Topgolf Technology and Equipment

One of Topgolf’s major differentiators is its use of proprietary ball-tracking technology. Every bay is equipped with microchipped golf balls, touchscreen displays, radar and camera systems, and integrated scoring software.

This technology not only needs to be installed, but it also requires ongoing calibration, updates, and technical support. It is a big investment upfront, usually $5 million to $7 million and also represents one of the brand’s most valuable assets in terms of user experience.

If you’re operating under a licensing agreement, this equipment must be sourced directly from Topgolf, ensuring consistency across all venues.

4. Interior Furnishings, Fixtures, and Branding

Topgolf isn’t just a sports facility, it is a lifestyle brand. Every venue is designed to feel high-end and social, which means the interiors are thoughtfully curated. This includes stylish furniture, custom lighting, wall art, TVs, branded décor, kitchen equipment, and bar installations.

Signage, wayfinding systems, staff uniforms, and branded merchandise areas also need to meet Topgolf’s standards. These costs typically add another $1 million to $2 million depending on the size and design of the venue.

5. Licensing, Royalty Fees, and Brand Compliance

Topgolf does not operate like a traditional franchise in most markets. Instead, the company uses licensing and strategic partnership models, particularly for international growth. While this may sound similar to franchising, the structure is more complex and often more expensive upfront.

Interested partners are typically required to pay a one-time licensing fee, which starts around $1 million, though this figure can increase significantly depending on the territory size and exclusivity. In addition, licensees agree to ongoing royalties, which are calculated as a percentage of gross revenue. These royalties ensure continued access to Topgolf’s brand, technology, training, marketing resources, and corporate support.

Topgolf also enforces strict brand compliance. From staff uniforms and menu items to customer service training and marketing campaigns, licensees must maintain consistent quality across every touchpoint. This often requires additional investment in operational systems, staff onboarding, and audits to remain aligned with corporate standards

6. Working Capital and Pre-Opening Costs

Launching a Topgolf venue involves more than just building and equipping the facility. You’ll need working capital to cover staff hiring and training, inventory purchase, marketing campaigns, legal and compliance costs, and other pre-opening expenses.

Many operators underestimate the cost of ramp-up. In most cases, Topgolf venues take several months to reach optimal operating capacity. Therefore, having $1 million to $2 million in working capital is important to cover expenses during the soft launch and initial growth period.

7. Local Regulations and Taxes

Depending on the country or region, regulatory approvals can be time-consuming and expensive. These include business registration, liquor licensing, food and safety inspections, gaming or entertainment permits, and more.

Import taxes, tariffs, especially for the tech components, and local construction codes can add thousands or even millions to your total cost. It is essential to work with legal and financial advisors who understand the local landscape.

Any prospective investor assessing the long-term potential of this massive entertainment franchise concept must have a thorough understanding of these Topgolf operating costs.

Topgolf Franchise Cost

Topgolf Franchise Qualification Requirements

Opening a Topgolf venue isn’t as simple as signing up and paying a fee. Unlike typical franchises, Topgolf takes a highly selective approach when choosing its international partners. Before you even start thinking about site plans or capital, you need to know if you qualify.

Below are the key requirements every potential Topgolf franchise partner must meet:

1. Financial Capacity

First and foremost, Topgolf expects potential partners to have significant capital reserves. You’re not just opening a single location, you’re often expected to develop multiple venues across a region or country. This means you’ll need access to at least $100 million to $150 million in liquid and verifiable capital, depending on your proposed market.

In some cases, Topgolf may also expect partners to present proof of funds through audited financials or institutional backing. This is to ensure you can manage the enormous upfront investment, ongoing operational costs, and potential future expansion. They’re not just looking for rich investors, they want financially sound partners who can fund and sustain the entire venture.

2. Industry Experience

Having money isn’t enough, you must also bring proven experience in managing large-scale hospitality, real estate, or entertainment ventures. Topgolf wants partners who understand how to run complex, guest-focused businesses and who have demonstrated success in doing so.

This could mean you’ve previously operated major hotel chains, multiplex cinemas, theme parks, or upscale restaurants. You should also have an in-house operations team or be ready to build one, covering everything from general management and logistics to marketing, staff training, compliance, and customer service.

Applicants without this operational backbone are unlikely to qualify, no matter how much funding they have.

3. Market Access and Local Knowledge

Topgolf seeks partners who have a solid grasp of the local business environment. This includes knowing how to secure prime real estate, navigate zoning and permit processes, and build relationships with key stakeholders like government agencies and property developers. The ability to move efficiently through local regulations is essential.

Just as important is understanding the local consumer. Partners should know what drives entertainment choices in their market, how people spend their leisure time, and what kind of messaging resonates. Topgolf values partners who can tailor the experience to fit the local culture while still delivering the brand’s global standard.

4. Ability to Develop at Scale

Unlike small-format franchises where you might open one shop and grow slowly, Topgolf expects a multi-unit development commitment. This means you may be asked to open three to five locations within a defined territory over a set time, typically five to ten years.

This requires careful planning and a scalable operational model. You’ll need the systems, people, and capital to support aggressive expansion without compromising on quality. Topgolf will also want to see your long-term development plan, complete with timelines, location strategies, and financial projections.

5. Maintain Brand Standards and Culture

Topgolf is more than just golf; it is a curated experience, and the brand goes to great lengths to protect that. Partners must be fully committed to delivering the same level of service, design, and entertainment found in every Topgolf venue worldwide. This means strict adherence to brand guidelines across architecture, menus, staff uniforms, customer service, and even music playlists.

From day one, operators are expected to maintain consistency in quality and atmosphere. Topgolf provides the systems, training, and tools, but it is up to the partner to ensure every guest walks into a venue that feels unmistakably Topgolf, no matter the country or culture.

The Topgolf Franchise Application Process 

There are eight crucial steps to follow when applying for a Topgolf franchise to make sure everyone is on the same page and your location satisfies brand requirements: 

Step 1: Initial Inquiry & Preliminary Application

The first step is submitting a formal expression of interest to Topgolf’s international development or partnership team. This is your chance to introduce yourself, your business background, and your intentions. At this stage, Topgolf is looking for strong indicators that you meet their minimum requirements, especially when it comes to capital, operational experience, and ability to scale.

This initial contact is not a formality; it is the beginning of a screening process where the team evaluates whether your profile is worth taking to the next level. If your expression of interest aligns with their development goals, you’ll be invited for more in-depth discussions.

Step 2: Financial Disclosure and Verification

If you pass the first round, Topgolf’s corporate development team will begin assessing your fit more closely. This includes reviewing your financial credentials, examining your experience in hospitality, entertainment, or large-scale operations, and evaluating your understanding of the proposed market.

At this point, Topgolf wants to see more than money, they want vision. You’ll need to demonstrate that you can operate within their brand guidelines while also adapting to local market dynamics. These conversations often include strategy meetings, Q&A sessions, and site evaluations to gauge how serious and prepared you are.

Step 3: Business Case and Development Plan

Candidates who move forward are then required to submit a comprehensive business case. This proposal should clearly outline your territory of interest, planned investment level, development timeline, market analysis, and team structure. You’ll also need to show how you intend to meet Topgolf’s performance expectations over a multi-year period.

At this stage, professionalism matters. Your business plan should reflect not just ambition, but clarity, feasibility, and an in-depth understanding of your market. If you don’t have experience putting together investor-ready business plans for large-scale ventures, it’s worth seeking expert help. Entrepreneurs.ng offers a professional business plan writing service that can help you build a solid proposal tailored to your goals and industry expectations.

This is one of the most critical steps in the process. Topgolf wants to see a detailed, realistic, and scalable plan, one that proves you’ve done your homework and are ready to make a long-term commitment.

Step 4: Territory Selection & Site Approval

After your agreement is finalised, the next step is choosing your territory and securing an approved site. While you can suggest preferred markets, Topgolf must approve the territory based on its global growth strategy and market potential.

Site selection follows strict criteria. Locations need high visibility, strong footfall, and enough space, typically 10 to 15 acres. Topgolf’s team will assess each proposed site for demographics, access, and long-term viability. Only after corporate approval can development move forward.

Step 5: Franchise Agreement Negotiation

Once your business plan and territory proposal are approved, the negotiation phase begins. This is where the legal and financial terms of the partnership are finalised, including licensing fees, development schedules, revenue-sharing models, and performance benchmarks.

Topgolf takes a detailed and collaborative approach during this stage. Both parties work closely to ensure that expectations are aligned and the agreement reflects the scale of the investment. Once the terms are agreed upon and contracts are signed, you’re officially cleared to move into development.

Step 6: Training & Pre-Opening Support

After signing the agreement, Topgolf provides hands-on support to prepare your team for launch. This includes comprehensive training on operations, technology systems, guest experience standards, and brand compliance.

You’ll also receive guidance on staffing, marketing, menu execution, and venue setup to ensure a smooth opening. The goal is to help you replicate Topgolf’s proven formula while adapting to your local market, so when the doors open, your team is ready to deliver the full Topgolf experience from day one.

Step 7: Construction & Setup Timeline

Once the site is approved and pre-opening plans are in motion, construction begins. A typical Topgolf venue takes 12 to 18 months to build, depending on the size of the site, local regulations, and weather conditions.

During this period, Topgolf works closely with your team and approved contractors to ensure the build follows brand specifications. From structural development to tech installation and final inspections, every detail is managed to maintain consistency with the Topgolf global standard.

Step 8: Grand Opening Process

The grand opening marks the final step in the journey, but it is just the beginning of operations. Topgolf supports partners in launching with a well-coordinated event that includes staff readiness checks, soft launch trials, and local marketing campaigns.

Leading up to the big day, you’ll host preview events to gather feedback and fine-tune operations. On launch day, the goal is to create buzz, drive foot traffic, and deliver an experience that leaves a lasting first impression, one that lives up to the Topgolf name.

Topgolf vs. Other Sports Entertainment Franchises

Topgolf has established itself as the industry leader in the expanding market of sports entertainment franchises, but it is not the only one. 

The way that people mix leisure with tech-based sports is also being redefined by alternatives like BigShots Golf, Puttshack, Drive Shack, and Main Event. 

To assist you in selecting which hybrid venue or golf entertainment franchise best suits your company objectives, we’ve prepared the following side-by-side comparison table:

Brand/Features Topgolf BigShots Golf Puttshack Drive Shack 
Franchise Status $10m – $ 20 m+Open for franchising Select franchise/partnerships Open to franchising 
FocusTech-enhanced driving range + diningGolf bays + immersive tech + diningMini golf + digital scoring + diningGolf games + social space + dining
Startup Costs $15m – $50m+ (company-owned model)$10m – $20m+$15m – $25m+$8m – $15m+
Tech Integration High: ball-tracking, data screensModerate: VR bays, digital scoringHigh: patented Trackaball™ systemModerate: golf simulation tech
Experience StyleGroup events, nightlife, food, sportsSports bar atmosphere with tech flairUpscale, modern nightlife-style venueCasual entertainment and play
Ideal Location Major cities, high-traffic zonesUrban or suburban areasPremium lifestyle centersMixed-use developments
Ideal InvestorInstitutional partnersSmall to midsize investorsEntrepreneurs with capital Mid to Large investors. 
Fees and Royalties Licensing Fees  – 5-7% of revenue 6% royalty + 2% marketing6% royalty + 2% advertising 5% royalty + 2% marketing

If you want traditional golf play (BigShots), flexible real estate demands (Drive Shack), or high-end mini golf (Puttshack), the sports entertainment market has room for all of these styles and scalable returns, especially if you’re looking to replicate the Topgolf business model.

Topgolf Franchise Cost

Financing Options for Topgolf Franchisees 

Financing a Topgolf venue is no small feat, given the scale and investment required. Fortunately, there are several funding routes available to well-qualified investors. From traditional loans to creative funding structures, here are the most viable financing options to consider:

SBA Loans and Traditional Bank Financing

One of the most accessible ways to finance a large-scale project is through Small Business Administration (SBA) loans. The SBA 7(a) and CDC/504 programmes are particularly helpful for funding equipment, construction, and real estate. These loans offer government-backed guarantees, low down payments, and long repayment terms, making them attractive for investors seeking stability and flexibility. With these programmes, you may be able to finance up to 90% of the total project cost.

For more established investors with a strong credit profile and business history, traditional bank loans are another option. Commercial lenders may offer competitive interest rates and tailored repayment plans, especially if the development includes prime real estate and demonstrates strong revenue potential.

Franchisor-Backed Financing Partnerships

While Topgolf does not offer traditional franchising, it operates under Topgolf Callaway Brands, which collaborates with approved financial partners familiar with the brand’s requirements. These authorised financiers may offer customised funding solutions, including development credits, flexible repayment structures, and construction support.

These financing programmes are typically available to high-net-worth investors or corporations that meet Topgolf’s rigorous qualification standards. Although not publicised as typical “franchisor financing,” these arrangements serve a similar function by reducing upfront capital barriers for selected partners.

Investor Partnerships and Equity Funding

For investors who prefer to share the financial and operational load, forming a joint venture or equity partnership is a common path. These partnerships can include private investors, hospitality-focused venture capital firms, or family-owned businesses with experience in large-scale development.

By pooling resources and expertise, equity partnerships not only provide access to capital but also bring operational knowledge and local insight; two things Topgolf values highly. This model is especially effective for international expansions or multi-venue agreements.

401(k) Business Financing (ROBS)

Another option for investors in select regions, particularly the United States, is Rollovers as Business Startups (ROBS). This method allows you to tap into retirement savings without early withdrawal penalties or tax consequences. Funds from your 401(k) or similar retirement accounts are rolled over into a new business structure, giving you debt-free capital to invest in your Topgolf development.

This strategy is best suited for individuals with substantial retirement savings and should be managed through an experienced ROBS provider to ensure legal compliance.

Subsidies and Incentive Programmes

Depending on your location, you may also benefit from economic development incentives offered by federal, state, or regional authorities. These can include tax credits, infrastructure grants, tourism subsidies, and workforce development funding.

Local governments often support large-scale projects like Topgolf because of the jobs, tourism, and economic activity they generate. Tapping into these programmes can significantly reduce your build-out and operating costs, especially if your venue is part of a revitalisation zone or entertainment district.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Topgolf Franchise 

Owning a Topgolf venue is a major opportunity, but like any high-stakes investment, it comes with its advantages and trade-offs. Here’s what you should realistically consider before diving in.

Pros of Owning a Topgolf Franchise 

Below are some of the advantages of starting a Topgolf franchise:

Established Global Brand

Topgolf is one of the most recognisable names in sports entertainment. Its reputation for quality, innovation, and guest experience gives new venues instant credibility and a built-in audience.

Multiple Revenue Streams

With income coming from game play, food and beverage, private events, merchandise, and memberships, Topgolf venues are built to generate diversified, high-volume revenue.

Operational Support

Partners benefit from Topgolf’s proven systems, technology, training, and ongoing corporate support, reducing the risk of trial-and-error often associated with launching new ventures.

Growing Market Demand

The global shift towards experiential entertainment and social sports makes Topgolf a future-facing business with strong appeal across generations.

Cons of Owning a Topgolf Franchise 

Below are some of the challenges you may face when starting a Topgolf franchise:

High Startup Costs

With estimated setup costs ranging from $35 million to over $55 million, the barrier to entry is extremely high, far above most franchise or investment opportunities.

Limited Accessibility

Topgolf doesn’t offer traditional franchises, and its selective licensing model is only open to high-net-worth individuals or organisations with serious operational experience.

Complex Operations

Running a Topgolf isn’t simple. It combines hospitality, entertainment, tech infrastructure, and event management, making it a demanding business with high overheads and constant performance pressure.

Slow Build Timeline

From land acquisition and approval to construction and launch, opening a Topgolf venue can take 12–24 months or more, requiring long-term planning and significant patience.

Conclusion

Topgolf is not your everyday franchise; it is a capital-intensive, high-reward venture for serious investors who are ready to play at a premium level. With its blend of sport, entertainment, food, and tech, Topgolf offers an exciting opportunity to tap into the fast-growing experiential leisure market.

However, the path to ownership isn’t easy. From a multi-million-dollar investment to a selective licensing process, it requires strategic planning, deep operational experience, and a clear understanding of your market. But for those who qualify, it is more than a business, it is a landmark destination with the power to shape the social and entertainment landscape of any city.

Here are ways Entrepreneurs.ng can help you start or scale your business:

FAQs About Topgolf Franchise Cost

Can I own a Topgolf franchise in 2025?

Topgolf does not offer traditional franchises. Instead, it operates through licensing agreements and joint ventures, particularly for international markets. These partnerships are selective and require substantial financial and operational capacity.

What is the minimum investment to open a Topgolf venue?

The total investment typically ranges between $35 million and $55 million+, depending on land costs, construction, local regulations, and venue scale. It’s a major investment suited for large-scale developers or well-capitalised business groups.

Does Topgolf provide financing?

While Topgolf does not offer direct financing, it works with authorised financial partners and may support select partners with development credits or customised financing options through Topgolf Callaway Brands.

How long does it take to open a Topgolf?

Opening a Topgolf venue usually takes 12 to 24 months, factoring in land acquisition, construction, approvals, tech installation, and team training.

Do I need experience in hospitality or entertainment?

Yes. Topgolf prioritises partners with proven experience in hospitality, real estate, or entertainment. Operational expertise is essential to managing a large, high-traffic venue to the brand’s standards.

Is there Topgolf in America?

Yes. The United States is home to the majority of Topgolf venues. With locations across major cities and suburbs, the U.S. remains Topgolf’s largest and most established market.

What is Topgolf all about?

Topgolf is a sports entertainment venue that combines a tech-driven driving range with food, drinks, music, and social games. It’s designed to be fun for all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a complete beginner.

Is Topgolf a billion-dollar company?

Yes. Topgolf is part of Topgolf Callaway Brands, a publicly traded company with a multi-billion-dollar valuation. The merger with Callaway in 2021 positioned Topgolf as a key player in the global golf and entertainment industry.

Why is Topgolf so popular?

Topgolf blends competition, social interaction, and technology into a fun, accessible experience. Its appeal cuts across generations, and with no dress code or golf experience required, it’s become a go-to venue for everything from casual hangouts to corporate events.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Monica Ebunoluwa

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