Lesson series

Franchising 101 – Small Business Ownership

Is franchising right for you?

If you're curious about entrepreneurship but unsure where to begin, franchising might offer the structure, support, and scalability you're looking for. This session offers a deep dive into the franchise model—explaining how it works, what it costs, who it’s for, and how to tell if it’s the right fit. You'll explore the different types of franchise ownership and discover the wide range of industries that go far beyond fast food.

Led by David Mitroff, Ph.D., a Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Advisor who has guided hundreds of entrepreneurs through every stage of franchising, this workshop provides the tools you need to make an informed decision. Whether you're just starting out or thinking about pivoting from your current career, this session will help you understand the landscape and identify the best path forward.

Topics Include:
-Pros/cons of starting vs. buying vs. franchising
-Myths & realities of the franchise world (beyond fast food!)
-Types of franchise ownership (owner-operator vs. semi-absentee)
-Franchise categories that thrive in uncertain times
-Government regulation basics
-How to evaluate, finance, and choose the right franchise for you
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Meet the instructor

David Mitroff

David Mitroff, Ph.D. is a business consultant, marketing expert, keynote speaker and author who has held numerous consultative positions for diverse organizations such as LexisNexis, United Healthcare, U.S. Department of Justice, Providian Financial, Nordstrom, Limited Brands, Constant Contact, Ben & Jerry’s and the YMCA. David brings to the SBDC his experiences as the Founder and Chief Consultant of Piedmont Avenue Consulting, Inc. through which he provides business consulting and marketing services to create brand awareness, strengthen customer loyalty and generate new opportunities. David works with a diversity of clients in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond such as restaurants and retail specialty stores, franchises, professional services firms, start-ups and individual entrepreneurs.

Dr. Mitroff is an active member, on the executive board, or advisory committees for several organizations. He continually collaborates with several consultant groups, merchant associations, and charities to best serve the community. David brings a deep knowledge of the entire San Francisco Bay Area marketplace and is a fourth generation San Franciscan who is proud to have been born in San Francisco. David is a sought-after speaker on a wide range of topics from Social Media Management to the Psychology of Marketing and through his consulting, lectures, training, and keynotes has educated more than 35,000 business owners.
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