Why use The Entrepreneur Authority (TEA)?                                                              
SHORT ANSWER:    You'll save time, money and have less risk.                            
LONGER ANSWER:  We offer the most organized, no-nonsense approach to exploring business ownership.  We take the guesswork out of investigating the thousands of small business opportunities out there and match each client up with a select few^a best suited to them.  Since we have several types of businesses, from all industry categories^b, for all types of budgets, in our Franchipreneur 100^TM catalog, we can maintain our objectivity and have no bias in steering you towards one business as opposed to another.

• ^a usually 2-4
• ^b Automotive, Building, Childcare, Education & Training, Employment and Personnel, Energy, Financial Services, Food/QSR, Hair Care, Health and Beauty, Laundry and Dry Cleaning, Maid Services, Packaging and Mail Services, Printing and Graphics, Retail, Sports and Recreation and much more (30 in total).

How can this be free?
"140".  That is how many contacts many companies make for each successful arrangement.  That's very costly to an owner/franchisor.  By reducing this number to just a few, pre-screened candidates, we provide a valuable service.  What is very important to understand, is that you pay the same amount for the franchise/business whether you go directly to the seller or use us.

How do we do it?
WE LISTEN.  We want to learn as much about you and your objectives as we possibly can. Some key things we will need to know are:

• Why do you want to own a business?
• Will you be a hands-on manager or more of a semi-absentee owner?
• What are your hobbies and interests?
• Will this be a home-based business OR a storefront? 
• What amount of cash liquidity do you have and feel comfortable investing?
• What are your long-term goals and objectives?

Before we start discussing any specific opportunities, we need to fully understand these, and other, questions.  The exciting part of the process is that often we identify something you didn't know existed but fits you perfectly - happens all the time!

Am I ever under any obligation?
No. Never.  You move forward only after you thoroughly feel comfortable.

How much will a business cost me?
Generally, a business requires some cash and the ability to finance the remainder. The cash requirement can range from $25,000 to hundreds of thousands while the total cost can range from $25,000 to $1,000,000 or more. Interestingly enough, the cash required is not always the best indicator of what the earnings might be. People are often surprised with how little it can take to start a profitable small business.

What about obtaining financing?
Many options exist.  Sometimes, the individual seller/franchisor is even willing to participate.  Most companies have relationships with SBA lenders and other people in the financial community.  We can refer you to several too.

What happens to the confidential information I give you?
It will not be given to anyone except members of our staff and the selected opportunities you wish to investigate.

What experience do I need?
Most companies prefer people with the ability to lead, manage and market.  They are not looking for laborers, but rather for owner/managers with strong leadership skills.  They will supplement any industry knowledge you do not already have.

How long does it take?
While this can vary from business to business, generally you set the pace.  In some cases, you can be in business in as little as 2 weeks, and with others, as long as 2 years.  Often, the main variables are (1) the loan process and (2) the availability of suitable real estate (for non home-based businesses).

Copyright© 2006 The Entrepreneur Authority, LLC.