Franchising as a Growth and Investment Option - BGWM IR

Franchising continues to be one of the most effective ways for ambitious entrepreneurs to scale a proven business model, or for individuals to step into business ownership with the backing of an established brand.

From a funding perspective, franchises are often viewed as a lower-risk investment, giving lenders and investors greater confidence due to their established systems, strong brand reputation, and proven customer demand.

This interactive session will help SMEs across Dudley, Sandwell, Wolverhampton, Walsall, Birmingham, and Solihull understand how franchising can be used as a growth and investment strategy, whether you’re looking to expand your business or explore new franchise opportunities.

What You’ll Learn

During this 2-hour webinar, we’ll explore:

🔹 How franchising works as an investment model

🔹 The financial and operational considerations for franchisors and franchisees

🔹 Why funders view franchise models as lower risk

🔹 Real-world insights from business leaders and finance experts who understand the franchise journey

Guest Speakers

Dave Rogers – The Business Explorer®

Dave Rogers on LinkedIn

A seasoned business growth specialist, author, and TEDx speaker, Dave has extensive experience supporting franchisees and business owners across multiple sectors.

As a former Coach for Mitchells & Butlers, he supported franchisees within one of the UK’s largest hospitality chains, helping them improve performance, strengthen business operations, and achieve consistent growth.

Now known as The Business Explorer®, Dave helps entrepreneurs challenge their thinking, ask better questions, and uncover new routes to sustainable success.

Kelly Hill – The Early Years Company

As Founder and Director of The Early Years Company, Kelly brings extensive experience in early years leadership, training, and business development. She has supported hundreds of childcare providers to strengthen their operations, scale sustainably, and explore franchise and multi-site models within the childcare sector.

Richard Steele – ART Business Loans

Representing one of the region’s leading Community Development Finance Institutions (CDFIs), Richard Steele works with SMEs across the West Midlands to secure the finance they need to grow and invest.

Richard will share insights into how lenders assess franchise models, what funding options are available for both franchisors and franchisees, and how ART Business Loans supports businesses to invest confidently in expansion opportunities.

Who Should Attend

This webinar is ideal for:

• SMEs based in Dudley, Sandwell, Wolverhampton, Walsall, Birmingham, or Solihull
• Business owners exploring franchising as a route to growth
• Entrepreneurs considering becoming franchisees
• Advisors, accountants, or consultants supporting local SME growth

Why Attend

By joining this session, you’ll:

✅ Understand the practical steps to franchise your business

✅ Learn what funders look for when assessing franchise investments

✅ Hear first-hand insights from successful franchise and business leaders

✅ Connect with fully funded support available through Business Growth West Midlands

Kindly note that we ask all attendees to complete a Client Application Form before joining one of our workshops. Once you've booked your ticket, one of our Business Finance Specialists will be in touch.