You’re on a roll! You’ve done your due diligence and are serious about finding your dream franchise.

Now comes the critical step—choosing the right franchisor. This is more than just a business investment; it’s a long-term partnership. Just as you’re evaluating franchisors, they are also assessing your ability to launch and grow the business to ensure a strong, successful relationship.

Franchising is regulated, with important rules to follow—such as the 14-day waiting period after receiving the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) before signing an agreement or making any payments.

So, how do you ensure the best fit? Let’s dive into the process.

Step 6: Getting to Know the Franchisor

Finding the right franchise is about more than just numbers—it’s about alignment. To ensure a good fit, follow this structured process:

🔹 Introduction Call

Learn about the franchise’s history, values, and business model.

🔹 Financial Review

Understand the investment breakdown, unit economics, startup costs, and ongoing fees.

🔹 Business Model Evaluation

Assess how the franchise fits into your local market. Review your requirements list (from Step 3) and ask yourself:

✔ Does this model align with my requirements and goals?

✔ Do I believe my community has a need for the product or service?

✔ Can I see myself following their sales and service process?

🔹 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) Review

The FDD is a detailed legal document, not a contract, that provides 23 key disclosures about the franchise. It includes:

• Franchisor background
• Fees, investments & financial obligations
• Systems, products & services
• Owner involvement expectations
• Optional financial performance data
• Current & former franchisees

📌 You must sign an acknowledgment confirming receipt of the FDD before proceeding.

🔹 Validation Calls

Talk to current franchisees about their experiences. Ask about support, profitability, and daily operations.

🔹 Discovery Day (Meet the Team)

Visit the franchisor’s headquarters to meet key personnel. This is an opportunity to confirm:

✔ Cultural alignment—Do you like and trust the leadership team?

✔ Professional fit—Does the support system meet your expectations?

🔹 Franchise Agreement Review

This binding contract outlines key details from the FDD. Review it with a franchise attorney and be comfortable with what it contains before signing.

🔹 Franchise Awarded! 🎉

Congratulations! You are now a franchise owner.

💡 Did you know? Franchisors can and do say no to prospective franchise owners. A strong franchisor is selective about who they bring into their system to protect the brand, ensure operational consistency, and maintain franchisee success.

👉 Pro Tip: At each step, ask questions, clarify concerns, and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to walk away.

Step 7: Business Launch

Once your franchise is awarded, it’s time to prepare for launch:

✔ Solidify the Business Plan – Define goals, marketing strategies, and financial projections.

✔ Secure a Location (if applicable) – With the guidance of the franchisor find and lease a suitable space.

✔ Complete Initial Training – Attend training provided by the franchisor to master operations, marketing, and sales.

✔ Announce Your Grand Opening! 🎉 – Build anticipation and start attracting customers.

👉 Pro Tip: Join your local chamber of commerce. They will help you to organize and promote a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Step 8: Growing Your Franchise

Your journey doesn’t stop at launch—growth is key to long-term success:

✅ Start Selling and Never Stop - Always be actively pursuing sales; determine the right mix of social media, attending events, contacting and meeting people and do it consistently.

✅ Franchise Business Coach – Take full advantage of coaching and support from the franchisor.

✅ Franchise Network – Connect with other franchisees for advice, insights, and collaboration.

✅ Local Business Community – Build relationships with fellow entrepreneurs in your area.

✅ Community Involvement – Support local initiatives, sponsor events, and give back—strong communities fuel strong businesses.

👉 Pro Tip: Leverage these support systems—they will accelerate your success and help you grow faster than going it alone.

Ready to Build Your Future?

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to select, open, operate, and grow a thriving franchise in your local community.