Franchises for veterans provide exceptional avenues for military veterans to transition their discipline and teamwork skills into business ownership. In this article, we delve into 25 diverse franchise opportunities tailored for veterans, highlighting their unique benefits and support systems.
Whether you’re newly transitioning from military service or a long-time veteran, these franchises offer a solid foundation for your entrepreneurial journey. Let’s explore these opportunities designed to honor your service and support your business ambitions.
Why Do Veterans Make Great Franchisees and Small Business Owners?
Veterans often excel in the world of franchising and small business ownership for several reasons. Their military training and experience instill a strong sense of discipline, which is crucial for the rigorous demands of running a business.
Veterans are typically adept at adhering to systems and structures, an attribute that aligns well with the franchise model where following established processes is key to success.
Furthermore, their experience in working within team environments equips them with the skills to effectively manage and motivate a workforce.
The ability to take orders and execute plans meticulously translates into a strong business acumen, as veterans can effectively translate strategies into actionable tasks.
These combined qualities make veterans well-suited for the challenges and opportunities in the world of franchising and entrepreneurship.
The Franchise Industry Today
The franchise industry represents a significant portion of the business landscape. With an estimated worth of $826.6 billion, it is a powerhouse in the global economy, offering a diverse range of opportunities across various sectors.
According to the International Franchise Association (IFA), this industry continues to thrive due to its proven business models and the support structures that franchisors offer to franchisees.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) reports that there are approximately 31.7 million small businesses in the United States, with franchises constituting about 11% of this number.
This data underscores the vital role that franchises play in the small business sector, contributing significantly to economic growth and job creation.
The franchise model, with its blend of entrepreneurial independence and corporate support, continues to be an attractive avenue for business ownership.
- READ MORE: See our Franchise Guide
Why Veterans Should Consider Franchise Ownership
If you’re a Veteran looking to start your own business, a franchise is a great option. Here are five reasons you should start a franchise business:
- A business model that’s proven. A franchise is an established business that has a proven track record. When you buy a franchise, you’re buying a small business that’s already been successful with many having multiple revenue streams built-in.
- Turnkey franchise systems. Qualified Veterans receive assistance with everything from site selection to build-out to grand opening. This franchise system turnkey approach makes it easier for Veterans to get their businesses up and running quickly.
- Ongoing support. In addition to the initial training and support you’ll receive, most franchisors offer ongoing assistance to their franchisees. This support can be helpful as you’re growing your business.
- Brand recognition and marketing. When you buy a franchise, you’re buying into a brand that’s already well-known and has a loyal customer base. This can give you a leg up on the competition, especially when it comes to marketing.
- Financing assistance. The SBA offers several financing programs specifically for Veterans. These programs can help you get the funding you need to start your franchise business.
Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best Franchises for Veterans
When selecting franchises ideally suited for veterans, we focus on opportunities that align with the unique skills, experiences, and values that many veterans bring to the business world. Our methodology encompasses factors that are particularly relevant to veterans transitioning into franchise ownership:
Veteran Support and Incentives (10/10)
We prioritize franchises that offer specific support programs, discounts, or incentives for veterans, recognizing their service and facilitating their transition to business ownership.
Training and Support Systems (9/10)
Comprehensive training and ongoing support are crucial for veterans who may be new to the franchise industry or the specific business sector.
Alignment with Military Skills (9/10)
Franchises that offer roles and responsibilities aligning well with the leadership, discipline, and teamwork skills commonly developed in the military are highly valued.
Financial Stability and Profitability (8/10)
We assess the financial model of the franchise, ensuring it presents a sound investment with a strong potential for profitability and growth.
Brand Reputation and Market Presence (8/10)
A strong brand presence and positive reputation in the market can be instrumental in ensuring the success of a franchise, particularly important for veterans starting a new career path.
Community and Peer Support (7/10)
A supportive franchise community, possibly with other veteran franchisees, is important for shared experiences and networking.
Operational Simplicity (7/10)
Franchises with straightforward operational procedures are ideal for veterans transitioning into civilian business roles, ensuring a smoother adaptation process.
Ethical Business Practices (7/10)
Franchises that uphold high standards of ethics and integrity resonate with the values many veterans uphold.
Market Growth Potential (6/10)
The potential for expansion and scalability of the franchise in existing and new markets is a significant factor, offering veterans a long-term business opportunity.
Flexibility and Lifestyle Compatibility (6/10)
Franchises offering flexibility, which might be important for veterans seeking a balanced post-military life, are given additional consideration.
Cost and Investment Transparency (6/10)
Clear and transparent information about investment costs, fees, and financial risks is essential for making informed decisions.
Contribution to Veteran Causes (6/10)
We also consider franchises that actively contribute to veteran causes or engage in community service that supports military and veteran communities.
In choosing the best franchises for veterans, our methodology is designed to identify opportunities that not only offer a solid business model and support system but also align with the unique experiences and values of veterans.
We aim to highlight franchises that are particularly well-suited to the skills and ambitions of those who have served in the military, offering pathways to successful business ownership.
Best Franchises for Veterans
Veterans have a lot to offer as franchise owners. That’s why we put this list of franchise business opportunities for Vets. Let’s check out these 25 franchises for veterans!
1. Snap-On Tools
First on our list of top franchises is Snap-On Tools. This company offers franchises for an initial investment of between $171,385 to $359,767. They offer incentives for honorably discharged veterans.
2. Mathnasium Learning Centers
Mathnasium offers a math education franchise opportunity that comes with an investment price of less than $150,000, including the initial franchise fee. This is a great opportunity to help kids learn math skills that will help them in school, and beyond.
3. Anytime Fitness
If you want to enter the fitness industry, then this could be an amazing franchise opportunity for you. Anytime Fitness offers a unique business model that allows you to get up and running quickly. Your total investment, including the initial franchise fee, would be somewhere in the range of $381,575 to $783,897.
4. BIGGBY Coffee
If you’re interested in opening a coffee shop, BIGGBY might be a good fit. The cost of a new shop ranges from $276,000 to $439,000. Qualified Veterans receive a half-off discount on any initial franchise fees.
5. UPS Store
Opening your own UPS store franchise can cost you over half a million dollars. This recognizable brand offers special programs for Veterans as well as a $10,000 Veteran discount off the franchise fee to qualifying Veterans.
6. Dream Vacations
Want to start a home-based travel agency? You can get started with this franchise with as little as $3,500 down. U.S. Veterans or military spouses receive a 30% discount on the initial franchise fee.
7. Visiting Angels: Senior Home Care
If you’d like to get into living assistance services, then the Visiting Angels franchise may be a great option. To get started, you’ll need to invest as much as $130,000.
8. Tint World
This is a great franchise opportunity for Veterans looking to start a business in the automotive industry. Your investment will be up to $399,500, with Veterans receiving a 10% discount off the initial franchise fee.
9. Fast Signs
If you’re looking to enter a growing industry with a business model that’s proven, then FastSigns may be for you. The total investment to open one is between $234,317 – $322,489, which includes the initial franchise fee.
10. Budget Blinds
To open a Budget Blinds franchise, you can expect to invest about $140,533. However, qualified candidates can receive up to $56,000 in financial assistance from their in-house financing. Plus, Veterans get a 15% discount on the purchase price.
11. Two Men and a Truck Moving Services
Like working with your hands? Two Men and a Truck is a moving company that offers franchises for between $164,000 and $435,600. Veterans and their spouses receive a 10% discount off the initial $50,000 franchise fee.
12. Experimax
If you’re a techie, then this opportunity will be right up your alley! To open your business and begin offering services inside of a Walmart near you, you’ll need to make a total investment of at least $175,000.
13. Sport Clips
This franchise is great for Veterans looking to get into cutting men’s hair. To get involved with this award-winning franchise, you’ll need to invest somewhere in the range of $266,300 to $439,500.
- READ MORE: 10 Business Loans for Veterans
More Top Franchise Opportunities for Veterans
Here are some more of the best franchises that Veterans can start.
14. Five Star Painting
This company offers franchises at a total investment cost of up to $185,000. If you’ve been honorably discharged and qualified for the VetFran program, they’ll give you 15% off your initial franchise fee.
15. Molly Maid
Maid services are always in demand! If you’re interested in starting a Molly Maid franchise, your total investment will be between $127,200-184,450. Veterans can receive a 15% discount on the initial franchise fee.
16. DreamMaker Kitchen & Bath
This franchise offers a unique opportunity in the kitchen and bath remodeling industry. Your total investment will range between $209,775 and $396,650 on top of any additional franchise fee. Qualified Veterans receive a 20% discount off initial franchise costs.
17. Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning
Here’s another cleaning franchise that offers a low-cost investment opportunity. Your total investment for an Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning franchise will as much as $50,000 at startup.
18. Grease Monkey
Here’s an oil change franchise in the always booming automotive industry. Minimum financial qualifications include needing a net worth of $450,000 and about $150,000 to invest in your franchise.
19. Baskin Robbins
Basking Robbins is one of the most popular ice cream franchises in the world and a nationally recognized brand. But did you know that you can start your own location for as little as $90,000? That’s a pretty sweet deal!
20. Pillar to Post
Here’s a home inspection franchise opportunity that has low startup costs. Your total investment would be in the range of $44,285 to $54,435. And as a Veteran, they’ll discount your franchise fee as well.
21. Crunch Fitness
This is a great franchise opportunity for Veterans who are passionate about fitness and helping others. However, your initial investment will be between up to $2,129,500, excluding the cost of real estate.
22. Sylvan Learning
If you’re looking for a low-cost franchise opportunity in education with a company that uses a time-tested teaching method, Sylvan Learning may be for you. They offer franchises starting at only $85,525. However, one of their requirements says you’ll need to have a minimum of $75,000 in cash yourself, without a bank.
23. Mosquito Joe
Here’s an opportunity in the pest control industry. The total investment for a Mosquito Joe franchise ranges between $109,700-148,700. If you’re a Veteran who qualifies for the VetFran program, they’ll knock off 15% of your initial franchise fee.
24. Checkers
If you’re looking to get into the fast-food industry, Checkers is a great option. But keep in mind that you’ll need to invest anywhere from $724,523 – $2,009,400 to get started.
25. Mr. Handyman
This is a great opportunity for Veterans who are handy around the house. But it’s important to note that you’ll need to invest at least $117,500 to get started. Qualified Veterans will receive 15% off their franchise fee.
Veteran-Friendly Franchise Opportunities
For veterans exploring entrepreneurial opportunities, here’s a comparison of franchises offering special incentives or discounts for veterans. This table highlights those franchises that acknowledge the service and dedication of military veterans through financial benefits.
| Franchise Name | Business Focus | Initial Investment Range | Special Veteran Offers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snap-On Tools | Tool Sales | $171,385 - $359,767 | Incentives for honorably discharged veterans |
| BIGGBY Coffee | Coffee Shop | $276,000 - $439,000 | 50% discount on franchise fees for qualified Veterans |
| UPS Store | Shipping and Mailing | Over $500,000 | $10,000 discount for qualifying Veterans |
| Dream Vacations | Travel Agency | As low as $3,500 | 30% discount on franchise fees for Veterans or military spouses |
| Tint World | Automotive | Up to $399,500 | 10% discount on initial franchise fee for Veterans |
| Budget Blinds | Window Treatments | About $140,533 | 15% discount for Veterans |
| Two Men and a Truck | Moving Services | $164,000 - $435,600 | 10% discount on initial franchise fee for Veterans and spouses |
| Five Star Painting | Painting Services | Up to $185,000 | 15% off initial franchise fee for honorably discharged veterans |
| Molly Maid | Maid Services | $127,200 - $184,450 | 15% discount for Veterans |
| DreamMaker Kitchen & Bath | Home Remodeling | $209,775 - $396,650 | 20% discount off initial costs for qualified Veterans |
| Pillar to Post | Home Inspection | $44,285 - $54,435 | Veteran discount on franchise fee |
| Mosquito Joe | Pest Control | $109,700 - $148,700 | 15% off initial franchise fee for qualifying Veterans |
| Mr. Handyman | Home Maintenance | At least $117,500 | 15% off franchise fee for qualified Veterans |
How to Choose the Best Franchise to Start as a Veteran
Selecting the right franchise as a veteran involves a balanced approach that aligns your personal strengths and interests with a viable business opportunity. Here are essential factors to consider:
- Consider Your Interests and Skills: Reflect on what you are passionate about and where your skills lie. This could range from a love for food and hospitality to skills in automotive maintenance or fitness. Choosing a franchise that aligns with your interests and proficiencies can lead to greater satisfaction and success.
- The Franchisor’s Reputation: Research the franchisor thoroughly. Look into their track record in the industry, financial stability, and the success rate of their franchisees. Reviews and testimonials from current and former franchisees can provide valuable insights. A franchisor with a strong, positive reputation is more likely to offer a reliable and supportive franchise experience.
- Your Initial Investment: Evaluate your financial capacity for the franchise investment. This includes the initial franchise fee, setup costs, equipment, inventory, and working capital until the business becomes profitable. Choose a franchise that fits within your financial means to avoid undue stress and potential financial strain.
- The Franchisor’s Support: The level and quality of support provided by the franchisor can be a decisive factor in your franchise experience. Look for franchisors that offer comprehensive training programs, marketing assistance, and ongoing operational support. As a veteran, you might also want to explore if they have specific support programs for former service members.
Remember, the best franchise opportunity for you as a veteran should not only be financially sound but also resonate with your personal values and aspirations.
Choosing a franchise that leverages your military experience while providing room for growth and fulfillment can pave the way for a successful entrepreneurial journey.
How Many Franchises Are Owned by Veterans?
The presence of veterans in the franchise industry is significant and growing. In the United States, over 66,000 veterans have embarked on the journey of franchise ownership.
This trend reflects the appealing nature of franchising for veterans, who often find that the structured yet entrepreneurial nature of franchises aligns well with the skills and discipline honed during their military service.
The franchise model, with its established systems, turnkey operations, and ongoing support, provides a conducive environment for veterans to transition into business ownership and achieve success.
How Much Does it Cost to Open a Franchise?
The cost of opening a franchise varies significantly based on several factors, including the type of franchise, industry, location, and the franchisor’s brand recognition.
Initial investments can range from as low as $10,000 for smaller, less capital-intensive franchises to upwards of $5 million for larger, more established brands. The most common range for startup costs lies between $100,000 and $300,000.
This investment typically covers the initial franchise fee, application fee, equipment, inventory, and operational setup. It’s essential for prospective franchise owners, including veterans, to conduct thorough financial planning and consider all potential costs before committing to a franchise.
Are Franchise Businesses Profitable for Veterans?
Franchise businesses can indeed be profitable for veterans, with many veterans finding success in this arena. The disciplined work ethic, leadership skills, and ability to adhere to systems and processes that veterans often possess are valuable assets in the franchise world.
These qualities align well with the requirements for successful franchise operations. While profitability can vary depending on the specific franchise and market conditions, the structured support and proven business models provided by franchisors can significantly contribute to a veteran’s success in running a profitable franchise.
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