Buy a business with confidence

The smartest way to buy a business? With a Sidekick. Our proven systems, certified brands and personal guidance, help you reduce risk and build a business that lasts. Whether you’re leaving the 9-5 or exploring your next venture, we’re here to help you find the perfect franchise fit. And the best part? Our services are free.

From corporate rut to franchise freedom with Cabinet IQ

10,000+

Franchise locations awarded

Our "Guide to Franchise Ownership" walks you through the real questions people have when they’re thinking about buying a business.

Franchise or DIY business? The real risks, rewards and ROI

50+

Years of franchising experience

New podcast: The hottest franchise brands of Fall 2025

Your goals. Your story. Your perfect fit.

You bring the vision, we’ll bring the roadmap. Our expert advisors take time to understand what freedom looks like for you – more flexibility, more time, more purpose – and match you with a business that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.

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Shield-certified advisors: Get guidance from trusted advisors who listen first and lead with experience – helping you make confident, well-informed decisions.
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Exclusive benefits: Unlock access to top-performing, certified brands and competitive funding options designed to set you up for long-term success.
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Risk-free support: Take advantage of expert advice, resources and connections – all free to you.
Franchise Sidekick_Advisors

Supporting your franchise goals

Expand your business portfolio
Meet Portfolio Pete

Expand your business portfolio

Diversify with franchise investments that align with your goals

Leave your 9-5 job
Meet Freedom Freddie

Leave your 9-5 job

Step away from the grind and into ownership


Keep your job and start your business
Meet Side Business Sam

Keep your job and start your business

Start a manageable business while staying in another role

From dream to ownership – our proven process gets you there

The Sidekick 7™ isn’t just a free process – it’s your roadmap to freedom. From the first spark of possibility to signing with the right franchise, every step is designed to bring clarity, reduce risk and move you closer to the life you’ve been dreaming about.

01

Financial assessment

The first checkpoint is simply meeting the minimum financial requirements of our brands. All franchise brands have different requirements, but the minimum is $50,000 in liquid capital and $150,000 in net worth.

02

Define your goals

What’s your why? Your Sidekick Advisor needs to know who you are, where you want to go, and what drives you. The foundation of this step is our proprietary software that starts with the franchise fit survey. The questions we ask in this survey will give our advisors a deep understanding of what is truly a priority for you when considering a franchise.

03

Explore brand options

Which of our certified brands are for you? After diving deep with your Sidekick Advisor, they’ll offer you the best brand options to achieve your goals based on the information we’ve collected. After discussing with your advisor, you’ll choose which brands you want to discover more about.

04

Discovery process

This 4-6 week process is all about getting to know the ins and outs of your top brands. You’ll dive deep into the financials of the business, franchise disclosure review, and analysis of your territory. You’ll attend franchise validation calls where you can ask existing franchisees of the brand any items you need clarification on. After 3-4 weeks you should eliminate brands you are not interested in & focus on the best fit.

05

Preparation process

This 2-3 week process runs alongside the Discovery Process. Your Sidekick Advisor will help make sure you have an expert opinion protecting you. We’ll connect you with our top partners for steps like funding and legal review, and help you prepare for Confirmation Day!

06

Confirmation day

You’ve been invited by the brand to their C Day! This is the day for you to meet the team, experience the business for yourself, and confirm your decision to become a franchisee.

07

Ribbon cutting

YOU DID IT. You’ve decided on a franchise brand, and they’ve decided on you! This is the big moment you’ve been preparing for. During your Ribbon Cutting, you will sign the franchise agreement and discuss next steps for onboarding with your new franchise family! 

Your future is calling, let’s take the next step together

Ready to take the leap? Connect with an advisor and start your business-buying journey today.

Soccer Stars

Josh Herscheid

Soccer Stars

“The structure that Ryan and the team built – vetting, validating and standing behind good franchises – it's huge. There’s a lot of junk out there, but Sidekick helps you find the good ones.”
Doug Anthony

Doug Anthony

Best Choice Roofing

“Ask a lot of questions, participate in the franchisor calls and really get to know the franchise disclosure document. The Sidekick team is amazing – they’ll make sure you’re well informed and connected.”
Matt Allen

Matt Allen

Soccer Stars

“Franchise Sidekick’s process brought structure and clarity to what could have been an overwhelming experience. Their evaluation tools helped me compare opportunities side-by-side, and their checklists kept everything organized. Having expert guidance made me feel fully prepared to move forward with confidence.”