Ever Thought of Owning a Franchise? Now's Your Chance.

Representatives of national and international franchise companies expanding in the region will be in Fredericksburg on Friday as part of the Capital Area Franchise Fair hosted by FranNet of Virginia.

"Franchises are available in over 90 different industries that fit a variety of budgets and interests," said Heather Rosen, president of FranNet of Virginia. "Finding the right fit is important for success.  Most people equate franchise with “fast food;” but many exist that require fewer hours and far less start-up funds and generate greater profits."

The Capital Area Franchise Fair will be held 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Nov. 22 at the University of Mary Washington, University Hall, Stafford Campus, 121 University Blvd., in Fredericksburg.

Rosen and Brian Baker, director of the Fredericksburg Small Business Development Center, will be among the experts helping attendees explore different options and learn about navigating the franchise research and ownership process.

Tickets are $35 in advance with online registration.  Admission is $45 at the door. 

FranNet of Virginia is a franchise matchmaking service in Virginia and DC providing free counseling as well as educational seminars to entrepreneurs through SCORE and the Virginia Small Business Development Centers, government agencies and local military bases.

Other stories in our 2013 Small Business Saturday series include:

• PITAIYO Opens on Caroline Street
• Ladyburg Hosts Second 'Real Housewives of Fredericksburg'…
• Virginia Home Care Partners Provides Services Without Minimum Hour Requirements