Launching a franchise allows entrepreneurs to own a business with a proven brand without starting from scratch. While some big names like McDonald’s require significant capital — upwards of $1 million in startup costs and $500,000 in liquid assets — many reputable franchises can be launched with less than $200,000 in liquid assets.
Here are 15 franchise options with relatively low startup costs that offer solid business opportunities:
1. Lennys Grill & Subs
Liquid assets: $75,000
Known for authentic Philly cheesesteaks made fresh, Lennys began franchising in 2001. The total investment ranges from $332,030 to $455,594, with a franchise fee of $25,000.
2. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Liquid assets: $100,000
The world’s largest barbecue chain since 1941 offers family-style dining and open kitchen experiences. Franchise fees start at $20,000 plus ongoing royalties.
3. Bruster’s Real Ice Cream
Liquid assets: $125,000
Operating over 200 locations, Bruster’s specializes in homemade ice cream and frozen yogurt. Total investment ranges from $264,500 to $643,000, depending on store type.
4. Le Macaron French Pastries
Liquid assets: $75,000
This macaron-focused franchise delivers authentic French pastries from a centralized commissary. Investment ranges between $149,240 and $349,500.
5. Vocelli Pizza
Liquid assets: $100,000
With more than 30 years in business, Vocelli serves quality pizza with investments from $156,000 to $330,900.
6. The Simple Greek
Liquid assets: $100,000
This casual Greek dining franchise is expanding nationwide, requiring a net worth of $300,000 and investments between $316,000 and $586,000.
7. Churroholic
Liquid assets: $150,000
A dessert chain specializing in churros, Churroholic has grown rapidly since 2017 and seeks franchisees with investments around $477,500.
8. Cinnaholic
Liquid assets: $200,000
Featured on “Shark Tank,” Cinnaholic offers vegan cinnamon rolls with buildout costs ranging from $187,000 to $368,500.
9. Boomarang Diner
Liquid assets: $75,000
With a ’50s and ’60s diner theme, Boomarang offers quick, friendly service with investments ranging from $109,800 to $508,050.
10. Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
Liquid assets: $100,000
This healthy smoothie and juice franchise has over 90 locations and targets health-conscious consumers.
11. Wayback Burgers
Liquid assets: $125,000
A burger chain operating in 30 states with over 160 franchises, startup costs range from $350,000 to $450,000.
12. Rush Bowls
Liquid assets: $150,000
Founded by a former finance professional, Rush Bowls offers healthy açaí bowls and has flexible multi-unit franchise opportunities.
13. Teriyaki Madness
Liquid assets: $200,000
An Asian food franchise with growing market presence, requiring investments between $327,000 and $678,000.
14. Lumberjacks Restaurant
Liquid assets: $100,000
Known for its log cabin décor and hearty meals, Lumberjacks demands investments from $432,300 to over $1.3 million.
15. Craving the Curls Rolled Ice Cream
Liquid assets: $50,000
Specializing in rolled ice cream, this family-run business seeks franchisees aiming for multiple locations, with investments from $112,000 to $228,000.
These franchises provide diverse options in food, ice cream, and dessert sectors, offering potential entrepreneurs exciting and affordable ice cream franchise opportunities or other food-related ventures.
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