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Franchising: an entrepreneurial opportunity. (Special Advertising Section).


Travel to any town in America and you are bound to find a franchised business: one in which you buy the right to run a brand name business and sell its products. One of the fastest growing segments of American business, franchising is an ideal partnership for an independent entrepreneur. As a franchisee not only do you buy the right to the company's name, trademarks, products, business procedures, marketing, advertising, and other components unique to that particular business, but you are backed by the substantial knowledge, skills, experience, and financial strength of the franchisor. For would-be entrepreneurs, franchising provides an affordable means of accelerating expansion, achieving development goals more quickly than might otherwise be the case and with far less risk.

Even if you are not the typical, risk-taking entrepreneur, you may be suited to running a franchise, says Sonya Thorpe Thorpe   , James Francis Known as "Jim." 1888-1953.

American athlete. An outstanding collegiate football player, he later played professional football and baseball.
 Brathwaite, director of diversity and emerging markets with the International Franchise Association in Washington, DC. That is because instead of starting your business from scratch, you're running a business with a proven track record. "You are in business for yourself but not by yourself." Whether it's accounting and financing, advertising and public relations public relations, activities and policies used to create public interest in a person, idea, product, institution, or business establishment. By its nature, public relations is devoted to serving particular interests by presenting them to the public in the most , personnel management, purchasing or inventory control, franchisors are there to provide hands-on, one-to-one assistance. While franchising does provide great opportunities, it does not create miracles. You must combine knowledge and resources with entrepreneurial drive and spirit.

Fast-food giants McDonald's and Burger King automatically come to mind. However, there are more than half a million franchises operating in the United States United States, officially United States of America, republic (2005 est. pop. 295,734,000), 3,539,227 sq mi (9,166,598 sq km), North America. The United States is the world's third largest country in population and the fourth largest country in area.  generating more than $1 trillion in retail sales. The people who draw their paychecks from franchising come from all walks of life--from recent college grads to downsized corporate professionals.

More minorities are discovering franchising opportunities thanks to increasing recruitment efforts by companies such as Wendy's, Merry Maids, Jan Pro, and Interim Healthcare. The IFA Immunofluorescent assay (IFA)
A blood test sometimes used to confirm ELISA results instead of using the Western blotting. In an IFA test, HIV antigen is mixed with a fluorescent compound and then with a sample of the patient's blood.
 Educational Foundation has received a significant number of donations to increase diversity within the franchise industry, including educational grants of $250,000 from Coca-Cola Corp. and $150,000 from Marriott Hotel. Moreover, a strategic alliance was formed between IFA and the Minority Business Development Agency to help groom and develop more African American African American Multiculture A person having origins in any of the black racial groups of Africa. See Race.  franchisees.

Access to capital remains the critical key to opening the door of franchise ownership. Some franchises sell for as little as $1,000, but the average franchise costs about $150,000 in total start-up costs. Franchising in and of itself does not end obstacles that otherwise competent and capable minority entrepreneurs face, but there are a growing number of banks and venture capital firms Name Location Founding date Managing Partners/Directors Specialty Capital managed
5AM Ventures Menlo Park, CA; Waltham, MA 2002 John Diekman, PhD (managing partner), Scott Rocklage, PhD (managing partner), Andrew Schwab (managing partner) life sciences $200M [1]
 that are starting to earmark earmark

taking a piece out of the edge or center of the ear with a punch as an identification mark. The shape of the mark may be registerable under local legislation.
 funds for minorities and women interested in owning a franchise. Start by contacting your state economic development office to find out what financial resources are available in your area.

A great resource, the IFA is the largest and oldest industry trade group, with members operating in more than 75 industries including construction, weight loss, daycare, hotels and motels Motels may refer to any of the following:
  • Motel, a type of temporary commercial accommodation;
  • The Motels, an American new-wave band.
, and travel agencies. IFA's Franchise Opportunities Guide provides a list of franchise companies ($17 plus $6 for shipping and handling). Call 800-543-1038 or visit www.franchise.org/boookstore/bookstore.asp. You can also get a copy of the Business Opportunities Handbook by calling or visiting www.franchise1.com. Another source is Franchise Times ($35 a year; 651-631-4995 or www.franchisetimes.com), which addresses the needs of prospective and existing franchisees. The Franchise Network (www.bison1.com) is a major resource of information for franchisees, and FranCorp (www.francop.com) is the world's largest consulting group for franchisees.

Consider each individual franchise based on its own merit and track record. But take heart knowing that opportunities abound--especially in service-related fields such as home repair and remodeling remodeling /re·mod·el·ing/ (re-mod´el-ing) reorganization or renovation of an old structure.

bone remodeling
, carpet cleaning, and janitorial services; business support services support services Psychology Non-health care-related ancillary services–eg, transportation, financial aid, support groups, homemaker services, respite services, and other services  including accounting, packing and shipping, and temporary help; automotive repairs and services; environmental services The various combinations of scientific, technical, and advisory activities (including modification processes, i.e., the influence of manmade and natural factors) required to acquire, produce, and supply information on the past, present, and future states of space, atmospheric, ; hair salons A hair salon (also called 'Hairdresser' and 'Hair Parlour')is a place where one goes to get their hair cut, as well as styled, highlighted or coloured.

There are many different types of hair salons that one can choose to go to.
; health aid services; computers; children's services; educational products; and telecommunications services In telecommunication, the term telecommunications service has the following meanings:

1. Any service provided by a telecommunication provider.

2.
.

Contact franchisors directly but shop wisely. Meaning, determine beforehand how much you can afford to invest and where to obtain financing. Careful investigation prior to purchasing a franchise also necessitates understanding the Uniform Franchise Offering Circular Offering Circular

An abbreviated prospectus for a new security listing. Delivered to individuals and brokerage houses, these documents are issued to arouse interest in the new issue.

Notes:
An offering circular allows investors to access information regarding a new issue.
, which provides a significant amount of information on that given company. Inquire in·quire   also en·quire
v. in·quired, in·quir·ing, in·quires

v.intr.
1. To seek information by asking a question: inquired about prices.

2.
 about the company's training and support provided, assistance in finding and developing a location, and the sources of inventory and supplies. Research the company's growth and prospects for future growth.

Franchisors often seek out applications that demonstrate they have done their homework and looked into that particular business. Not everyone who applies for a franchise will get one even if he or she has the capital means. Franchisors also look for people who can take direction and are self-starters as well. Highly motivated African American entrepreneurs who visualize owning their own small businesses are closer to that reality than they might think. The doors to franchise opportunities are steadily opening wider.

Jan-Pro

Even in these times of recession and a weakening economy, the demand for commercial cleaning services continues to grow. No wonder so many property managers turn to a name synonymous with synonymous with
adjective equivalent to, the same as, identical to, similar to, identified with, equal to, tantamount to, interchangeable with, one and the same as
 quality service: JAN-PRO. Over the last decade JAN-PRO Cleaning Systems has built a national presence and a solid support base in urban and rural areas, and they continue to expand and welcome new franchisees at all levels of the business. In the January 2002 issue of Entrepreneur magazine Entrepreneur Magazine is a publication that carries news stories about entrepreneurialism, small business management, and business opportunities.

This magazine is published monthly, with a total of 12 issues annually. (No special extra issues are published.
, JAN-PRO was ranked in the top 100 of their annual Franchise 500 and as a Top 20 Low-Investment Franchise.

JAN-PRO has a proven program for all investment levels. You can start with as little as $950 down and grow at your own speed. JAN-PRO supplies you with a starting customer base, a comprehensive training package and ongoing support system. You run your own business through the guidance of an established franchise organization.

Many franchisees come to JAN-PRO after years of working long hours for someone else. They want a business that's easy to get into, simple to manage and one that provides flexible work hours. JAN-PRO is the answer.

JAN-PRO gets you started by providing accounts. They also supply you with marketing, insurance and bonding and they handle all the paperwork. The JAN-PRO program is designed for the individual owner to grow in manageable steps, with various investment programs. There is no limit to how large you can eventually expand your business.

In addition, as a JAN-PRO franchisee, you'll be able to offer your customers a full variety of services and you'll have the advantage of national relationships with many service providers.

With over 900 franchises nationwide, JAN-PRO offers internal financing internal financing

The financing of asset purchases with funds generated in the usual course of operations rather than funds that are borrowed or raised from the issuance of stock.
 programs for minority franchisees. We also encourage the development of cleaning contracts with facilities located within inner city cores. We're poised for continued growth and we are committed to helping you succeed.

Interim Healthcare

Today, healthcare professionals and in-home caregivers are in high demand. And the need is only growing. In fact, home care and healthcare staffing services are two of the fastest growing segments in America's trillion dollar healthcare industry.

HOME CARE

Home health is forecasted to grow by over 42% in the next live years, as key demographic drivers remain in place in this new decade. In addition, the nation's population continues to age. In 1994, approximately one in eight Americans was age 65 and older. By 2030, one in five Americans will be a senior citizen.

HEALTHCARE STAFFING

Medical staffing is considered one of the hottest business opportunities in America today. By the year 2010, the traditional, full-time, permanent employment model will likely be more the exception than the norm. The nursing shortage is expected to continue and the long-term outlook for managing staffing vendor relationships with health care facilities is expected to produce good opportunities for high volume business.

INTERIM HEALTHCARE

Interim HealthCare is the country's oldest health care franchise organization and the largest provider of home care and healthcare staffing. For more than 35 years Interim has been trusted by clients and patients to provide the highest quality in care and assistance. Our Franchisees receive world-class training, the value of the most trusted brand name in the home care industry, and powerful marketing and sales programs. As an Interim HealthCare Franchisee you have access to a select group of prime markets and an opportunity to own a business in the fast growing health care industry.

If you'd like more information about Interim HealthCare and franchise opportunities, visit us on the Web at www.interimhealthcare.com or call John Marquez at 1-800-338-7786 ext. 2699.

Subway subway: see rapid transit.
subway

Underground railway system used to transport passengers within urban and suburban areas. The first subway line, 3.
[R] Restaurants: Number One Franchise Opportunity For a Reason ... *

You've always wanted to be your own boss. You're willing to work hard to achieve your goals. You have a can-do positive attitude. You're an entrepreneur at heart, and you need to think about becoming a member of the Subway team--14,800 restaurants strong in 76 countries--all independently owned.

At Subway the franchisor-franchisee relationship is a vital part of the growth and achievements of the chain. Subway's 36 years of experience and expertise not only guides you through the process of setting up your own business, but, more importantly, you have the continued support of a multitude of talented individuals who want you to succeed.

"We are seeking candidates with good common business sense, the ability to work within a structured franchise system, and a willingness to be involved in the day-to-day operations. We want hands-on owner operators," says Don Fertman, director of franchise sales.

Subway's commitment to minority franchisees is unwavering. It covers financial assistance by financing 90% of the franchise fee, as well as $10,000 for qualified minority prospects, and about $40,000 worth of equipment leasing Equipment Leasing is a financing option to lease equipment for a certain amount of time. Leasing Benefits
  • Control secondary market, offer the ability to up-grade and trade-in.
  • Converts cash buyers of small machines to larger, more expensive purchases.
.

You don't get to be the largest fast-food sandwich chain in the world by leaving your franchisees high and dry. You get there together through a chain of cooperation, support, reinforcement reinforcement /re·in·force·ment/ (-in-fors´ment) in behavioral science, the presentation of a stimulus following a response that increases the frequency of subsequent responses, whether positive to desirable events, or  and a willingness to share talents and gifts with others.

* Entrepreneur magazine January 2001 Annual Franchise 500.

Wendy's International Wendy's International, Inc. NYSE: WEN is the parent company of Wendy's Old Fashioned Hamburgers. It also owns 70 percent of Cafe Express and 25 percent (fully diluted) of Pasta Pomodoro. The Tim Hortons chain was spun off by Wendy's into a separate company in September 2006. , Inc.

In 1969, Wendy's founder Dave Thomas opened the first Wendy's Old Fashioned n. 1. A cocktail consisting of whiskey, bitters, and sugar, garnished with with fruit slices and often a cherry.

Noun 1. old fashioned - a cocktail made of whiskey and bitters and sugar with fruit slices
 Hamburgers Restaurant in Columbus, Ohio Columbus is the capital and the largest city of the American state of Ohio. Named for explorer Christopher Columbus, the city was founded in 1812 at the confluence of the Scioto and Olentangy rivers, and assumed the functions of state capital in 1816. . Dave hoped

For other people named David Hope, see David Hope (disambiguation).
Dave Hope (October 7, 1949) played bass for the American rock band Kansas from 1973 until the band split in 1983.
 to own a few restaurants, but he never guessed his Wendy's "family" would grow to include more than 500 franchisees and surpass 6,000 stores worldwide.

Dave loved to be in the restaurants. He talked with thousands of franchisees and employees over the years. Early on, they were struck by his candid can·did  
adj.
1. Free from prejudice; impartial.

2. Characterized by openness and sincerity of expression; unreservedly straightforward: In private, I gave them my candid opinion.
 advice about cooking square hamburgers or cleaning floors. In later years, they were charmed by his celebrity. But Dave never changed. "Tell me how we can support you," he'd say. "I want you to be the best."

Dave was passionate about serving the highest quality food and working with great people. He believed that every person at Wendy's is important to its continued success. He started Wendy's heritage of working side by side with franchisees. "When you succeed, we all succeed," he told them.

Like the customers we serve, the Wendy's family is a diverse group of people from many backgrounds. As Wendy's grows, we continue to welcome franchisees who reflect the diversity of our broad customer base.

Franchisee Junior Bridgeman Ulysses Lee "Junior" Bridgeman (born September 17, 1953 in East Chicago, Indiana) is a retired American basketball player.

Bridgeman was a member of the 1971 East Chicago Washington High School Senators basketball team, which went undefeated (29-0) and won the Indiana state
 operates 140 Wendy's restaurants throughout Wisconsin, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Florida. In 2001, he was recognized among the "BLACK ENTERPRISE 100," the magazine's ranking of profitable, competitive black-owned businesses.

"My success is a reflection of how committed Wendy's is to helping people grow their businesses," says Junior. "Not just franchisees like me, but suppliers as well."

More than 30 years ago, Dave Thomas began his search for the best franchisees to grow and prosper in the Wendy's family. Today, we're known as Wendy's, but we'll always be Dave's place. If you have a passion for quality in the restaurant business, call 1-800-443-7266 today to learn more about Wendy's opportunities.

An Opportunity to Be Your Own Boss!

Merry Maids offers franchise opportunities to independent-minded, ambitious men and women who want more out of life than an ordinary job or career will give them.

PROFILE

The service industry is the fastest growing industry in the United States. The professional home cleaning market is $12 billion--and growing! Merry Maids offers over fifteen years of franchising expertise in this industry. Over 1,100 franchisees internationally provide service in the residential cleaning markets. A large and experienced home office support staff. On-going owner training provided through regional and national business meetings. A national TV advertising schedule ... the first and only one in the industry.

INVESTMENT

A Merry Maids franchise is a rare investment opportunity. Merry Maids offers three different protected franchise territories depending on demographics The attributes of people in a particular geographic area. Used for marketing purposes, population, ethnic origins, religion, spoken language, income and age range are examples of demographic data.  and market size. Franchise fees range from $13,500 to $21,500. Merry Maids can finance up to 70 percent of the franchise fee, subject to financial approval (Additional working capital required). For this, you get the key elements you need to run a business: training, equipment, supplies, business software, marketing, research, and advice along the way. Think about it: Merry Maids carries a solid reputation as an established industry leader.

RECOGNITION

Merry Maids is consistently ranked among the top franchise opportunities nationally in Fortune, Success, and Entrepreneur magazines. And, Merry Maids is part of the Quality Service Network with other market-leading companies such as Terminix, TruGreen-ChemLawn, ServiceMaster, Amerispec, and Furniture Medic.

Find out more today!
To find out more about Merry Maids, simply call, fax, or write us.
Fax: 901-537-8140; Phone: 800-798-8000;
Address: 860 Ridge Lake Blvd., Memphis TN, 38120


Church's Chicken Church's Chicken is a U.S. chain of fast food restaurants specializing in fried chicken. The chain was founded as Church's Fried Chicken To Go by George W. Church, Sr. on April 17, 1952 in San Antonio, across the street from The Alamo. [TM]

As a member of the AFC Enterprises AFC Enterprises NASDAQ: AFCE is the Atlanta-headquartered company that owns Popeye's Chicken & Biscuits. AFC Enterprises is a publicly-traded company.

AFC was formerly the franchiser of Seattle's Best Coffee and Cinnabon.
 family, Church's Chicken[TM] has over 1,500 locations in 28 states and 12 countries. The Church's success story began in 1952--across the street from the Alamo Alamo

Eighteenth-century mission in San Antonio, Texas, site of a historic siege of a small group of Texans by a Mexican army (1836) during the Texas war for independence from Mexico.
 in San Antonio, Texas “San Antonio” redirects here. For other uses, see San Antonio (disambiguation).
San Antonio is the second most populous city in Texas, the third most populous metropolitan area in Texas, and is the seventh most populous city in the United States. As of the 2006 U.S.
. Since then, Church's simple operating system operating system (OS)

Software that controls the operation of a computer, directs the input and output of data, keeps track of files, and controls the processing of computer programs.
 and the consumer's passion for great tasting chicken have made us one of the global leaders in the quick service restaurant industry.

Our chicken has "crave appeal," which keeps our consumers coming back time after time for a unique, homemade home·made  
adj.
1. Made or prepared in the home: homemade pie.

2. Made by oneself.

3. Crudely or simply made.

Adj. 1.
 taste that only Church's can provide. Our signature Honey Butter biscuits, jalapeno peppers, and fried okra okra: see mallow.
okra

Herbaceous, hairy, annual plant (Hibiscus esculentus or Abelmoschus esculentus), of the mallow family, grown for its edible fruit. Okra leaves are deeply notched; flowers are yellow with a crimson centre.
 are delicious compliments to our marinated fried chicken Fried chicken is chicken which is dipped in a breading mixture and then deep fried, pan fried or pressure fried. The breading seals in the juices but also absorbs the fat of the fryer, which is sometimes seen as unhealthy. .

Church's has grown successfully in both International and U.S. markets. Multi-unit development is a fundamental element of our global strategy and a requirement for establishing brand presence. Church's also continues to focus on growing the ranks of minority and women franchise partners. "Church's will continue to create opportunities that benefit the people and communities who are at the heart of our customer base," says Hala Moddelmog Hala Moddelmog (born January 3, 1956 in Georgia) became president and chief executive officer of Susan G. Komen for the Cure in September of 2006. Moddelmog is a breast cancer survivor who was diagnosed in 2001. , President of Church's Chicken.

Remaining consistent with AFC's vision of The New Age of Opportunity, Church's has positioned itself as a brand for the future. By focusing on cultivating relationships with suppliers and communities, attracting valuable employees, and expanding franchise ownership opportunities for minorities and women, Church's has the formula for success.

Worldwide, a proven strategic business system, a framework for diversity, and a great product that equals a valuable brand: Are you hungry for an opportunity?

For more information, contact 1-800-639-3495 or www.churchs.com
COPYRIGHT 2002 Earl G. Graves Publishing Co., Inc.
No portion of this article can be reproduced without the express written permission from the copyright holder.
Copyright 2002, Gale Group. All rights reserved. Gale Group is a Thomson Corporation Company.

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Author:Brown, Carolyn M.
Publication:Black Enterprise
Geographic Code:1USA
Date:May 1, 2002
Words:2484
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