This article is for those that are looking to invest in a franchise under $10,000. I’m going to go through some of the key industries, and some real examples, including some of the largest franchise names available.

What industries are available under $10,000?

Generally, these are going to be service-based businesses where it doesn’t cost much money to open up the location. Keep in mind under $10,000 means the franchise fee is zero all the way up to about $10,000 because you need usually expenses for other items and working capital to get the business off the ground.

Exceptions to non-service-based Franchises Under 10k

Some exceptions to non-service-based businesses include Chick-fil-A, which right now you can invest $10,000, and own and operate a Chick-fil-A franchise. Yes, the corporate office is going to keep most of the profits. However, they’re investing generally way over $2 million. So if you’re looking to have an ownership stake in a small business with potential to earn $150,000 to $250,000 plus, then a Chick-fil-A franchise might be something to consider. Keep in mind it’s very exclusive and very difficult to be awarded a Chick-fil-A license or franchise. So, if you’re looking to apply, you probably already need to have years of U.S. restaurant experience, and maybe you have already worked at a Chick-fil-A restaurant.

Another option is Steak ‘n Shake. For Steak ‘n Shake, you actually have a larger equity percentage in the business. Last we checked for $10,000, you have a 50% ownership, and you can get into a current Steak ‘n Shake where it was previously owned by the corporate office, and they’re looking to have qualified franchisees own a percentage of one of these existing locations. What I like about the existing locations, you can see the profit and loss. And there’s not that ramp-up period where you’re waiting six months, 12 months, 18 months to start collecting a paycheck.

Generally, the first month or second month, you’re already getting some money back from your initial investment, which in this case for a Steak ‘n Shake was just $10,000.

Conclusion

Those are two big franchise brands. Again, Chick-fil-A and Steak ‘n Shake where for a $10,000 investment, you can have a partial ownership in one of these franchises, and partner directly with the franchisor. Other franchises under $10,000, there are not that many great ones. However, there are some diamonds in the rough in the service industry, and I do encourage you to look at all the listings on vettedbiz.com to see what franchises under $10,000 might be available for you.