What is a franchise?

A franchise is a business model where an individual (franchisee) operates a location of a larger, established brand (franchisor) — like Wingstop, Keller Williams, or Toyota. The franchisee pays fees to use the brand’s name, systems, and support, but runs the business as their own.

What kinds of businesses are franchises?

Franchises exist across many industries — including restaurants, auto dealerships, fitness studios, retail chains, home services, and health care. Many businesses you visit daily are likely franchise-owned.

What is the Black Franchise Index?

The Black Franchise Index is a living directory of Black-owned franchise businesses across the U.S. It was built to increase visibility, equity, and support for Black franchise owners — and to empower consumers to shop more intentionally.

Why focus on Black-owned franchises?

Because franchise ownership is one of the most accessible paths to business ownership — but Black entrepreneurs remain underrepresented.

• Only 6% of franchisees are Black-owned

• Franchise owners tend to have stronger business stability, access to capital, and community hiring power

• Black franchisees are more likely to reinvest in Black communities, offer equitable jobs, and provide non-predatory access to services like auto financing, real estate, insurance, and everyday essentials

How does this affect everyday consumers?

Where you shop, eat, and get services directly affects economic power in Black communities. Supporting a Black-owned franchise:

• Helps build local jobs

• Encourages fairer financing and customer service

• Channels dollars into long-term generational growth, not extractive business models

How are listings verified?

Listings marked “Submitted by Black Dollar Index” are curated through public records, corporate data, or verified community submissions. Business owners can also claim or update their listing to ensure accuracy.

Can I suggest or add a franchise?

Yes! If you know of a Black-owned franchise that isn’t listed, you can submit it directly. All submissions are reviewed for authenticity before being added to the index.