Local entrepreneurs curious about what is involved in starting a franchise are invited to attend a free forum at the University of Houston-Victoria.

Joe Humphreys

“Meet the Franchisor” will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Tuesday in the UHV University Center Multi-Purpose Room, 3007 N. Ben Wilson St. The event is hosted by the UHV Small Business Development Center, FranNet of South Texas and the Victoria Chamber of Commerce.

Several franchisors looking to expand in Victoria and surrounding markets will be on hand to discuss the questions, answers and opportunities of business ownership. Industries that will be represented are retail, hair care and business-to-business services.

“This forum will give residents in our region an opportunity to talk directly with franchisors and have their franchising questions answered,” SBDC Director Joe Humphreys said. “An increasing number of professionals are in transition, and some are considering reinventing themselves as entrepreneurs. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more directly from experts.”

Randy Vivian

Topics to be addressed during the forum are leveraging successful business models, launching a recession-resistant business, building a financial future and enjoying career independence. Individuals also will be able to meet with specific franchisors at a mini-trade show following the event.

“With the infrastructure improvements and growth in the Victoria area, there are many more business opportunities,” said Randy Vivian, Victoria Chamber of Commerce president and CEO. “We want to help spread the word about the advantages of doing business in Victoria.”

The forum also will feature information from FranNet, a 25-year-old company helping individuals interested in franchise ownership research, and select the business that best fits their professional and personal goals and objectives.

Diana Trondsen

“People are worried about the stability of their careers and are uncertain about the future,” said Diana Trondsen, owner of FranNet of South Texas. “Opening a franchise makes great sense today. It’s a more viable and stable option for a large number of people in today’s market.”

Annie Hudspeth, a lender relations specialist with the Small Business Administration San Antonio District Office, also will participate in the program.

To register for the free forum, visit uhvsbdc.org, call 361-485-4485 or 361-573-5722, or email sbdc@uhv.edu. The first 10 people in attendance the day of the event will receive “Street Smart Franchising,” a book by business author Joe Mathews highlighting the reasons for success in small business.