You hear about franchising every day. Chances are, you spend money in franchised businesses every day as well. Just how big is the franchising way of doing business in 2016 America? In terms of sheer numbers—jobs, revenues, dollars in the economy, people employed—it’s massive. It has never been easier to fund a franchise!

With your business plan in hand, it’s time to tap all your available resources to find the best available financing at the lowest cost to you. As you enter this phase of capitalization, keep in mind that there are lenders, accountants and attorneys who specialize in franchise financing. In some cases, they represent your best chance of a smooth, successful financing experience.

As the owner of a startup business, you’re going to start out spending working capital—money you’ve set aside to live on and run your business with until it becomes profitable. In time, you can expect to reach a point where your business breaks even, when you’ll have more cash coming in than going out. When that happens, the business becomes self-sustaining. You have career security!

Most franchise companies require a minimum level of liquid capital to fund a franchise unit. They know that businesses often fail because they are undercapitalized, and they want to be sure franchisees are set up for success.