Navigating the World of Franchise Financing
From SBA Loans to ROBS, here are some of the financing options available for entrepreneurs looking to fund their venture into the world of franchising.
Navigating the world of franchise financing involves understanding various funding options and preparing adequately to meet lenders' requirements. Franchise financing is tailored to meet the specific needs of aspiring franchise owners by covering their startup costs, equipment purchases and other business expenses.
“The majority of people are getting some sort of financing,” Joshua Marks, an attorney and owner of JM Law Group, told 1851 Franchise. “Maybe 80%, if not even more, will need support. I don’t get very many calls from people who can fund the entire startup out-of-pocket. And I’m not just talking about the initial franchise fee, but also build-out costs, startup costs, equipment, working capital… the whole ball of wax.”
Several financing options are available, each with its own advantages, requirements, and application processes.
Key Financing Options for Franchises
SBA Loans: The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers loans through programs such as the 7(a) and CDC/504, known for competitive interest rates and long repayment terms. These loans are favorable for their flexibility and accessibility, but they require the franchise to be listed in the SBA's Franchise Directory. SBA loans are suitable for various franchise purposes, including real estate and equipment financing????.
Bank Loans: Traditional bank loans can offer competitive rates and terms but often require strong credit, solid business financials, and collateral. They are best suited for those with a well-established business plan and credit history????.
Alternative Lenders: For those unable to secure SBA or bank loans, alternative lenders offer quicker approval processes, albeit usually at higher interest rates and shorter repayment periods. These are particularly useful for newer businesses or those needing fast funding??.
Franchisor Financing: Some franchisors provide financing options directly to their franchisees. These can include loans, discounts or guided financing solutions tailored to the franchise's needs????.
Retirement Funds: A less conventional method involves using retirement funds through a plan like Rollover for Business Startups (ROBS) to finance the franchise without incurring tax penalties. However, this carries risks to the franchisee’s retirement savings????.
Crowdfunding and Personal Resources: Crowdfunding platforms and personal assets or loans from friends and family are unconventional (but viable) options for franchise financing????.
Application and Qualification for Franchise Financing
To apply for franchise financing, prospective franchisees should first consult with their franchisor for potential in-house financing options or recommended lenders. They can also ensure their eligibility for SBA loans by checking the franchise's presence in the SBA's Franchise Directory.
During this process, franchisees should prepare their collateral and organize a substantial down payment, all while maintaining a good credit score. A solid business plan that outlines the franchise's financial projections and repayment plans significantly boosts the chances of loan approval??.
“The best thing would be for people to apply for franchises that are in an industry that they have experience with: either working in the industry or ownership,” Paul Bosley, owner of healthclubexperts.com and managing member of Business Finance Depot, told 1851. “It also looks good to lenders when a person has an educational background in the industry. For instance, a person that wants to open up a gym can get a personal training certification or if you're trying to open up an RV park, get certified RV parks through the trade association.”
Requirements
Lenders typically look for candidates with a positive net worth, liquid assets, a good credit score and a solid business plan. Specific requirements may vary by lender but often include a minimum credit score and annual revenue????.
Properly navigating the world of franchise financing requires careful planning and consideration of the various options available. With proper preparation and a little due diligence, aspiring franchisees can find the best financing solution for their needs.
For more insights on franchise financing, check out these related articles on 1851 Franchise:
- Franchise Financing 101: Finding and Securing Available Funds
- The 10 Best Options to Finance a Franchise Business
- SBA Franchise Loans: What They Are and How to Get One