This month marks an exciting milestone—four years since I launched Mint Franchise Consultants! In that time, I’ve been fortunate enough to help countless aspiring entrepreneurs achieve their dreams of business ownership, build generational wealth, and take control of their futures. I've been involved in franchising in a variety of ways over my life and changing lives has been a cornerstone. I can’t wait to continue this journey of empowerment for many more years to come!

Small Business Ownership: By the Numbers

 Did you know there are 33.3 million small businesses in the United States as of 2024? That’s a staggering number, with the majority—about 27.1 million—being solo ventures run by the owners themselves. Despite the challenges, many small businesses thrive, with 9% reaching $1 million or more in revenue. Globally, approximately 582 million entrepreneurs are running businesses, with 7% of U.S. adults owning an established business.

While the road to business ownership isn’t always easy, the rewards are immense. Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy, creating nearly two-thirds of new jobs and employing about 46% of the private sector workforce.

Franchising: A Path to Business Success

Franchising offers a structured path to business ownership, with support and proven models in place. The success rate for franchisees is impressive—92% of franchise owners are still in business after two years, compared to only 20% for independent businesses. With over 712,000 franchise owners in the U.S., franchising contributes more than $787 billion annually to the economy. It’s an industry worth exploring for anyone looking to start a business with a higher chance of success. 

Here are some more interesting stats about franchise ownership:

• 31% of franchise owners are women, and 69% are men.
• 25% of franchisees report incomes of $150,000 or more annually.
• The average age of franchise owners is 44 years old.

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your business journey, franchising provides a powerful platform to achieve the American Dream—and I’m here to help guide you through the process! 

Reflecting on My Journey: Mint Franchise Consultants

My core value has always been to impact the lives of others. For 25 years, I worked in the nonprofit sector, dedicating my career to making a difference. I had the privilege of working for organizations like the Muscular Dystrophy Association, American Heart Association, and Arthritis Foundation, raising funds for research, programs, and services that supported children and adults impacted by muscular dystrophy, ALS, heart disease, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile arthritis, and more.

While my path has shifted from nonprofit work to business ownership, the mission remains the same: changing lives. Today, I help people achieve their dreams through franchising, providing them with opportunities to build their businesses, create generational wealth, and secure their futures.

As I celebrate four years in business, I’m reminded of the risks I took and the rewards that followed. Building Mint Franchise Consultants has allowed me to continue my purpose of positively impacting lives, and that is a responsibility I hold dear.

For those considering business ownership or franchising, the numbers speak for themselves. Whether you’re looking to create financial freedom, build generational wealth, or be your own boss, owning a business—especially a franchise—offers a proven path forward.

Thank you to all my clients and partners for being part of this incredible journey. Here's to many more years of success, and I look forward to continuing to change lives, one franchise at a time!

Warm regards,

Laura Rolfe

Founder, Mint Franchise Consultants

P.S. If you're thinking about taking that first step into business ownership, give me a call. Let’s build your empire!