Once you have the capital and dedication to become a business owner, consider the benefits you get when starting a franchise. There are many options out there from food establishments to toy stores to gas stations. Some are more established but require more capital; others haven't been around as long and can be high risk but feature a lower entry cost. You must dedicate time to research your options thoroughly and decide if the benefits make it a worthwhile investment.

• Established businesses: If you're looking at starting a franchise with a high overall success rate, established franchises have been around a long time and succeed where independent businesses often fail. You also benefit from the parent company's years of experience in growing a profitable business model.
• On-going help: Franchises provide significant help to get new owners off the ground. You already get the equipment and supplies that all franchises depend on. In addition, you get comprehensive training that shows you how to hire the best employees, maintain customer satisfaction, and quickly get "in the black".
• Financing assistance: Starting a franchise can be expensive and franchisors can ease the process by getting you in touch with lenders offering low interest rates and affordable payment plans.
• Purchasing power: When starting a franchise, it's not your sole responsibility to promote it. All franchise owners pay a small percentage of the business' advertising costs so you experience considerable economies of scale. Also, as a franchise owner, you have access to the parent company's deep discounts on various products and equipment.
• Public awareness: It's much easier starting a franchise that most people have heard of it than starting a new business. Long-standing businesses benefit from extensive advertising campaigns and brand recognition. These franchises already have an existing customer base and you don't have to spend time and extra money explaining to the public how the business works.