1851

Franchising offers a path to entrepreneurship that can be both rewarding and challenging. For members of the LGBTQ+ community, navigating the franchising world may come with its own set of unique considerations and hurdles. However, there are support systems and resources available to help franchisors build a more inclusive and welcoming environment where LGBTQ+ franchisees can thrive.1851 Franchise recently spoke with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-pickett-cfe-2b5b7711/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=support-systems-for-franchisors-seeking-to-improve-lgbtq-inclusivity-2725680" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Paul Pickett</a>, chief development officer and executive vice president of franchising with&nbsp;<a href="https://franchise.wbu.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=support-systems-for-franchisors-seeking-to-improve-lgbtq-inclusivity-2725680" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Wild Birds Unlimited</a>, about the support systems and resources available to the LGBTQ+ community in the world of franchising. Pickett not only has an extensive career in franchise development, but he is also the founder of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.franchise.org/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=support-systems-for-franchisors-seeking-to-improve-lgbtq-inclusivity-2725680" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">International Franchise Association</a> (IFA)&nbsp;<a href="https://www.franchise.org/committees-and-forums/franchising-pride-council?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=support-systems-for-franchisors-seeking-to-improve-lgbtq-inclusivity-2725680" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Pride Council</a>, a group devoted to encouraging inclusion in franchising.&nbsp;<h3>The IFA Pride Council</h3>The IFA Pride Council aims to provide new perspectives, create dialogues and foster awareness to increase inclusivity in franchising. Through building understanding, the group also hopes to increase the LGBTQ+ community’s access to opportunities.&nbsp;"Our goal is to advance inclusion in franchising, educate everyone—franchisees, franchisors, and the supplier network—about the LGBTQ+ community," said Pickett.<h3>Other Support Systems for LGBTQ+ Franchisors and Franchisees</h3>Beyond the IFA Pride Council, other support systems exist to empower LGBTQ+ individuals in franchising. The IFA Pride Council has collaborated with organizations like the&nbsp;<a href="https://nglcc.org/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=support-systems-for-franchisors-seeking-to-improve-lgbtq-inclusivity-2725680" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC)</a> to improve outreach and education within both the LGBTQ+ community and the broader franchise network.&nbsp;“We will continue to collaborate with [NGLCC], so that we can educate their constituents about the advantages of franchising. We want to communicate with members of the community and allies about the benefits of belonging to the chamber in terms of the support they can receive,” said Pickett.In the past, the IFA Pride Council has teamed up with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/robsmith-thephluidproject/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=support-systems-for-franchisors-seeking-to-improve-lgbtq-inclusivity-2725680" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Rob Smith</a>, founder and CEO of&nbsp;<a href="https://thephluidproject.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=support-systems-for-franchisors-seeking-to-improve-lgbtq-inclusivity-2725680" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">The Phluid Project</a>, to offer a&nbsp;<a href="https://community.franchise.org/webinar/pride-franchise-leadership-council-conversation-rob-smith-ceo-founder-phluid-project?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=support-systems-for-franchisors-seeking-to-improve-lgbtq-inclusivity-2725680" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">webinar</a> focused on gender inclusivity and creating a safe workspace. Webinars and other similar initiatives offer valuable insights and resources not only to members of the LGBTQ+ community but also to franchisors who want to position themselves as supportive allies.Becoming involved in groups dedicated to LGBTQ+ representation in franchising helps everyone feel welcome and celebrated. These groups provide education and understanding that is fundamental to growth and inclusion."It's about educating and helping others understand that we're not a group to exclude but a group to embrace," said Pickett.&nbsp;<h3>What Else Can Franchisors Do to Empower LGBTQ+ Franchisees?</h3>Franchisors play a pivotal role in creating an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ franchisees. Other than aligning one’s brand with supportive groups or committees, Pickett suggested taking practical steps, such as offering discounts or benefits for underserved communities and implementing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) training programs. He emphasized the importance of language and representation, urging franchisors to use inclusive terminology and showcase diversity in their branding and recruitment efforts. Simple gestures, such as using gender-neutral language in applications, can signal inclusivity and make prospective franchisees feel at ease.Pickett shared an anecdote about the effects of language use in creating a welcoming atmosphere.“I had suggested a sign for our Wild Birds Unlimited stores that said, ‘If you love birds and nature, you're welcome here.’ My boss, who's much smarter than I am, asked me, ‘Why would you qualify it at all? Isn't&nbsp;everyone welcome here? Even if they hate birds and don't like going outside, but their grandma loves birds, they’re welcome to come here and buy her a gift,’” said Pickett. “So instead, we created a sign that simply says, ‘All are welcome.’”While words do matter, more important is the intention behind them. The most important thing is to be open-minded and have good intentions when getting to know prospective or existing franchisees. Pickett highlighted the significance of authentic engagement with diverse communities to gain a better understanding and build meaningful connections."If your heart is in the right place, it's easy to engage with them in a way that's authentic and real," he said.&nbsp;<h3>Inclusion Is the Way Forward</h3>While challenges may exist for LGBTQ+ individuals in franchising, there is a wealth of support and resources available that franchisors can seek out to create a more inclusive environment and brand culture. Through initiatives like the IFA Pride Council and collaboration with allied organizations, the franchising industry is taking strides towards greater inclusivity and representation. By embracing diversity and fostering an environment of acceptance, franchisors and franchisees alike can create opportunities for growth within the LGBTQ+ community.To read more about inclusivity and diversity in the franchise space, check out these stories:&nbsp;<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-to-include-diversity-in-the-franchise-recruiting-process-2722788#stories">How to Include Diversity in the Franchise Recruiting Process</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/podcasts-empowering-and-educating-female-entrepreneurs-everywhere-2725332#trending">Podcasts: Empowering and Educating Female Entrepreneurs Everywhere</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/surprising-facts-about-franchising-2725115#stories">10 Surprising Facts About The Franchise Industry in 2024</a></li></ul>

LGBTQ+ Inclusivity in Franchising: Support for Franchisors

1851 Franchise

As a franchisor, there are numerous educational resources and committees dedicated to helping you make your brand a more welcoming place for members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Support Systems for Franchisors Seeking to Improve LGBTQ+ Inclusivity

support-systems-for-franchisors-seeking-to-improve-lgbtq-inclusivity

Right at Home

Right at Home Expanding In-Home Care Services in Wausau, Wisconsin 

right-at-home-expanding-in-home-care-services-in-wausau-wisconsin

The Growth Coach

Top 5 Reasons To Invest in The Growth Coach Franchise

top-5-reasons-to-invest-in-the-growth-coach-franchise

Caring Transitions

Planning Today for Peace Tomorrow: Caring Transitions on the Importance of Estate Planning

planning-today-for-peace-tomorrow-caring-transitions-on-the-importance-of-estate-planning

Onigilly Japanese Kitchen

Onigilly Franchise - Target Market - San Diego - 1851 Franchise

Onigilly Japanese Kitchen Franchise Sets Sights on San Diego Expansion

onigilly-franchise-san-diego-restaurant-expansion

ServiceMaster Restore

Liberty Restoration Group Renews Proud Partnership with Lindenwood University Athletics

liberty-restoration-group-renews-proud-partnership-with-lindenwood-university-athletics

Buying a Franchise Masterclass

 Franchise Opportunities

Get Support Buying a Franchise

How to Buy a Franchise White Paper

How to Buy a Franchise

How to Sell Franchises

How to Grow a Franchise

Find a Franchise Supplier

1851 Franchise Opportunities

Franchisor News

Franchisor Power Rankings

FranCamp Mastermind Summit

Franchise Development Website Builder

Franchise Resources

What ALEC-Laffer's Report Means for Franchising

Website Awards

Power Rankings

About 1851

Advertise on 1851

Contact 1851 Editorial

Terms of Use

1851 Login

GROWTH CLUB LOGIN

facebook

instagram

twitter

linkedin

youtube

Slim Chickens Opens R&D Center at World Headquarters To Drive Menu Innovation

slim-chickens-rd-center-fayetteville

Nearly 40% of Americans Are Eating Out Less as High Prices Redefine Dining Habits

nearly-40-of-americans-are-eating-out-less-as-high-prices-redefine-dining-habits

Authority Brands Enters Q4 with Record Momentum

Authority Brands Enters Q4 with Record Momentum, Surpassing 200 New Franchise Owners in the First 10 Months of 2025

authority-brands-enters-q4-with-record-momentum-surpassing-200-new-franchise-owners-in-the-first-10-months-of-2025

Franchises, work-life balance, millennials in franchising, millennials work-life balance

The Best Franchises for Millennials Wanting Work-Life Balance

best-franchises-millennials-work-life-balance

Photo of Papa Murphy's Take 'N' Bake Pizza franchisee Lily Wilford

Entrepreneur: This 18-Year-Old Saved Babysitting Money for College — Then Decided to Buy a Business Instead

18-year-old-franchise-owner-lily-wilford

Photo of group of dogs standing together in day care facility

Top Pet Boarding and Day Care Franchise Opportunities for 2025

top-pet-boarding-daycare-franchises

Graphic with arm, holding graduation cap, coming out of stack of books

top-tutoring-test-prep-franchises

Design with image of person using microscope against a pink background

Top STEAM Education Franchise Opportunities for 2025

steam-stem-education-franchise-opportunities

Top Education Franchises To Consider for 2025 - 1851 Franchise

Top Education Franchises To Consider Investing In for 2025

top-education-franchises-investment-opportunities

A Practical Playbook: Who To Call First When Franchising Your Business

franchising-your-business-who-to-call-first

image of jerome hanway from right at home Las Cruces, New Mexico 1851 franchise franchisee spotlight

Jerome Hanway Is Building His Right at Home Franchise Around His Mission To Serve

right-at-home-franchise-las-cruces-jerome-hanway

NJCAR v. Ford - New Jersey Supreme Court Limits Standing Under Franchise Practices Act

New Jersey Supreme Court Limits Standing Under Franchise Practices Act

new-jersey-franchise-practices-act-njcar-v-ford

image of michael panos and michel panos, owners of mellow mushroom in Atlanta

The Panos Family’s Role in Preserving Mellow Mushroom’s Character — and Expanding in Atlanta

mellow-mushroom-franchise-panos-restaurant-group-metro-atlanta

image of franchise deep dive from 1851 franchise on doody calls franchise authority brands

DoodyCalls Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

doodycalls-franchise-deep-dive

Support Systems for Franchisors Seeking to Improve LGBTQ+ Inclusivity

MORE STORIES LIKE THIS