Are you an entrepreneur looking to invest in the United States? The E2 investor visa could be the perfect option for you! With this visa, small business owners can come to the US and start their own small franchise business.
But before taking on such a big endeavor of franchise ownership, it’s important to know which small business ideas are best suited for non-local investors.
In this article, we’ll discuss some small business ideas from four different franchising sectors that are available in the US. These concepts are perfect for E2 visa candidates who are looking for profitable but low startup costs franchise investment. We’ll cover everything from the fast-food industry to pet care services.
But before we dive into these great small businesses, let’s answer this question first: “Is a franchise a small business?”
Is a franchise a small business?
The United States Small Business Administration (SBA) outlines that a small business has less than 500 employees and generates receipts of up to $7 million each year.
In franchising, the cost of investment of small franchise businesses in the US can vary immensely depending on the kind of business, location, and size.
Generally speaking, your expenses are likely to range somewhere between $50,000 – $500,000. These initial franchise fees cover the franchisor’s start-up costs and inventory costs at a minimum.
So the question stands: “Can a franchise be considered a small business?”
Absolutely! The truth is that franchises are small businesses, although others are considered large businesses.
Take franchises managed by multi-unit operators in the food and restaurant industries, for example – they are far from small businesses. These franchise owners are a publicly traded company with hundreds of units, driving millions every year as revenue.
This shows that some franchising operations grow and evolve into larger ones over time. It is quite possible that these multi-unit franchise operators will transition to bigger business models given the right circumstances.
For investors seeking a chance to enter the US market, franchising offers an ideal avenue with several benefits. Not only does it provide them access to established networks and experienced guidance but also allows for greater freedom than operating from scratch.
Joining an already-established franchise network has countless benefits, like having a pre-existing customer base and access to the franchisor’s support. If you are thinking of starting or expanding a business overseas in the United States, below are some industries that may be worth exploring:
4 Industries With Small Franchise Business Ideas For E2 Visa Candidates
Aspiring entrepreneurs entering the US through an E2 Visa may find many great investments in the form of small franchise businesses. Yet, it can be difficult to determine which industry is most suitable for you and your goals.
To help narrow down the field, let’s consider three criteria: profitability, marketability, and associated business ideas within each industry. We also include franchise examples available in the US but not all in the lists accommodate E-2 visa candidates.
Doing so will help you make a well-informed decision when selecting the right business investment.
1. Fast Food Restaurants
The fast food industry is a system of restaurants that offer patrons speedy service for their quick-service meals. You can enjoy them right away, take them home with you, or even have them delivered to your doorstep! The top products served in the fast food model are:
succulent burgers,
crispy chicken sandwiches and nuggets,
savory global cuisines such as pizza and pasta dishes,
as well as a range of fresh options from fast-casual concepts.
Here in the US, fast food is an incredibly popular option thanks to its affordability when compared with other types of restaurants. According to IBISWorld’s findings, there are currently more than 300,000 outlets across the country, and that number is projected to grow by 1.3% this year alone!
Fast food has become a go-to for many Americans due not only to its convenience but also because it provides excellent value for money.
Research reveals that businesses from this sector are perfect for starting up. But beginning a new business requires extensive analysis to determine if the venture will be successful in the US market and bring in profits.
A better option is finding established affordable franchises with low-cost franchise fees in the fast food sector, such as the following:
Mobile Food Business
A mobile food business is a great option for those who want to venture into the food service industry. With a relatively low franchise investment of $3,000 to $10,000, which includes the cost of the truck and initial operating expenses, you can start serving delicious food to your customers.
Compared to traditional brick-and-mortar restaurants, the mobile food business is one of the low-cost franchises as you don’t have to bear the overhead costs of renting or buying a bigger space.
However, profitability depends on various factors and specific operational costs. Nonetheless, with proper planning, a unique selling proposition, and efficient execution, a mobile food truck can indeed be a lucrative venture.
Coffee Shop or Cafe
If you’re interested in opening a cafe or coffee shop, then you’ll be happy to know that this franchise makes an excellent E-2 visa franchise business due to its social appeal that attracts a diverse customer base, growing demand in the U.S., often versatile menus, and opportunities for creativity.
One of the advantages of owning a coffee shop franchise is a proven business model. You benefit from the franchisor’s experience and insights.
Overall, coffee shops can be a secure and profitable route for an E2 visa franchise, especially with a well-developed business plan and a strong understanding of the local market.
Ice Cream and Frozen Dessert Franchises
Owning an ice cream and frozen dessert franchise can be a sweet way to achieve your E-2 Treaty Investor Visa goals due to their popularity and potential for profitability.
Compared to other food and beverage franchises, ice cream franchises are less expensive, and offer low-cost franchise opportunities. The largest ice cream companies are franchised brands, so there is plenty of potential in this area.
While ice cream has had its ups and downs, it remains a staple of the American diet, a cultural icon, and a comforting treat that people keep falling back on. And with more variety than ever, you can be sure you won’t get bored of your product.
Ice cream and frozen dessert franchises can range in total investment from well below $100,000. This typically includes franchise fees, initial inventory, equipment, real estate costs (lease or purchase), and working capital. The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) is the key resource for finding all this crucial information.
By understanding these cost components, you can be better prepared to research specific franchises and increase the chances of a successful franchise.
Smoothie and Juice Franchises
Many smoothie and juice franchises offer models that can start small (kiosk, mobile cart). This growth potential can be attractive to USCIS for the E-2 visa. With a healthy image and refreshing product that can be consumed on the go, they’re a natural choice for many Americans.
Smoothie cafes are a great example of businesses with a lower initial investment compared to other restaurants. But overall, smoothie cafes offer a more accessible entry point for aspiring entrepreneurs in the food and beverage industry to obtain an E2 Visa.
Donut and Pastry franchises
Donut and pastry franchises can be a good option for an E2 visa because they tend to meet the requirements of the visa program. Many donut and pastry franchises are well-known brands with a proven track record of success. This can increase your chances of getting your visa approved by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The investment required for a donut or pastry franchise can fall within the E2 visa minimum investment amount. This amount varies depending on the franchise.
2. Cleaning Services
There is an ever-growing demand for cleaning services worldwide. This lucrative industry continues to grow each year, and there are always people looking to hire a professional cleaner.
The residential cleaning industry is steadily growing year over year, with 80% of households projected to use housekeeping services by 2024. Moreover, the commercial cleaning market is forecasted to reach a staggering $468 billion in revenue by 2027 – an impressive 51.67% spike from its 2020 value of $308.7B!
For example, a one-person cleaning business can generate an impressive annual income of up to $50,000.
Meanwhile, commercial cleaning businesses with multiple employees have the potential to earn millions in profits each year! The amount of money generated by a given company depends on its particular niche and the competition it faces locally.
When choosing a commercial cleaning service, it is important to consider your specific needs and budget.
Business Ideas for Cleaning Services:
House Cleaning
A house cleaning service can be a strong contender for an E2 visa business as it requires minimal investment and you can start small and grow gradually by adding more cleaners and service areas.
Window Cleaning
The Window cleaning business is a straightforward process and involves a relatively low startup capital. These days, people and businesses prefer to get professionals to clean their windows especially those that require specialized cleaning equipment. The good thing about this business is it requires fewer bottlenecks and you’ll be able to recover your capital soon.
Dry Cleaning
While most investors prefer to invest in franchises or businesses within growing industries to obtain their E-2 investor visa, many clients like the idea of dry cleaning franchise businesses due to their familiarity with the industry from a consumer standpoint.
By targeting busy professionals to families, college students to seniors, dry cleaners have the opportunity to expand their customer base, foster loyalty, and ultimately propel business growth.
Carpet Cleaning
Starting a carpet cleaning company will help out homeowners and businesses alike. With your carpet cleaning business, you could bring the proper tools and the talent to take care of the carpets. And considering how easily carpets get dirty, your clients will need your services many times throughout the year.
Boat Cleaning Service
Considering a boat cleaning service can be started on an initial investment of less than $1,000, the income potential is excellent. Providing customers with a boat bottom cleaning service can also generate additional revenue for a boat cleaning service.
Pool Cleaning
Starting a pool cleaning service business presents a lucrative opportunity for E-2 Visa applicants. Pools are common in many U.S. homes, but the demand for their upkeep remains constant.
The required equipment and supplies for pool maintenance are relatively affordable, making it an accessible option for investors. Pool owners typically require ongoing maintenance services, providing a consistent source of income for entrepreneurs in this sector.
By obtaining a cleaning franchise, you’ll avoid much of the arduous effort and risk involved in launching your own business. Cleaning franchises are particularly attractive due to their lower initial investment costs compared to other industries.
Hence, with the significantly lesser financial commitment required for buying into cleaning franchises, this small business venture is highly accessible and very appealing!
When applying for an E-2 visa, it’s important to research reputable cleaning services, whether it is for a commercial cleaning franchise or residential purposes. So take the time to find the one that best suits your needs.
3. Fitness Industry
Boasting tremendous growth, the fitness industry is expected to remain on an upward trajectory for the next five years.
This can be attributed in part to burgeoning budget gym chains and premium functional fitness centers coupled with heightened public awareness of physical activity’s health benefits and a greater overall mindfulness of wellness.
The fitness industry is flourishing at an unprecedented rate as people across the globe prioritize their health and well-being.
Get a glimpse of these astonishing facts about the global and U.S.-based fitness sector: according to Zippia, a total market worth surpasses $87 billion in U.S. revenue for 2021 clocked in at $33.25 billion.
Nearly 40% of Americans are gym members, and estimated that by 2028 it could hit over $434.74 billion—a whopping 171.75% increase!
Health clubs, fitness centers, and gymnasiums are among those leading this charge toward bettering our well-being through exercise. However, there are other unique ideas in this sector that you can invest in.
Small Business Ideas for the Fitness Service Sector
Yoga Studio
Yoga studios are in high demand as they offer a unique experience to their customers. Establishing a yoga studio can present a promising business opportunity, especially for those considering an E-2 visa venture.
You can easily start this business with lower investments which can range between $30,000 to $100,000 and can make it successful provided that you plan it successfully and have a passion for yoga.
Sports Training Center
A sports training center can be a strong contender for an E-2 Treaty Investor visa business. It offers various types of physical activities like swimming, martial arts, and basketball.
Dance Studio
Dance studio franchises offer franchisees to use their dance skills to teach and interact with others passionate about dance as they are.
These day-to-day benefits, along with the lucrative opportunities inherent in franchise ownership make dance studio franchise owners a rewarding business experience.
A studio for dance steps, such as Hip Hop, Ballroom, Zumba, and more to keep people in good shape.
Sports Nutrition Store
Franchising a sports nutrition store can be a viable option for obtaining an E-2 visa. Sports nutrition stores offer a wide range of products to help athletes get the right amount of nutrients and supplements to stay fit and healthy.
Fitness Equipment Shops
There are several franchise opportunities available for those interested in owning a fitness equipment shop. This concept sells fitness equipment like dumbbells, treadmills, yoga mats, and more.
4. Pet Care Industry
The pet industry sometimes known as petconomy is the market industry associated with companion animals.
Globally, the pet care market has grown to $261 billion in 2022; up from $245 billion in 2021. An estimated 6.1% compounded annual growth rate (CAGR), will catapult that figure to $350 billion by 2027.
For entrepreneurs eager to penetrate new markets, pet food and pet supplies are the second and third biggest eCommerce CPG categories across the industry. The promise of prosperity is acutely high within the natural foods, animal care, and supply sectors.
The increasing number of millennial pet owners in the US who double the demand for services and products further attributes to industry profit.
Here’s the list of franchise ideas that can be found within this category.
Pet food and supplies
If you have a pet, then these retail businesses are your one-stop shop for everything they need! From food to toys and more, they carry all the supplies necessary to care for your furry friend. The pet supplies specializes in natural and eco-friendly products.
Pet walking and sitting
No matter how busy you are, pet care and walking are a need. When pet owners are unable to provide the necessary care and attention, this type of service comes in handy by ensuring their furry friends get what they need.
Dog training
These businesses provide comprehensive training programs to help dogs and their owners become better-behaved companions. Proper training and socialization are among your dog’s basic needs. It’s important to start training your dog as soon as possible to sit, stay, come, go to their crate, and go potty outside.
Pet grooming
If you’re looking for a reliable animal grooming business, look no further. We specialize in providing personalized services to groom dogs, cats, and other furry friends!
Pet grooming will involve shaving, clipping, or trimming the coat when necessary. It is a skill and needs training to do it professionally.
Pet grooming can be a rewarding and profitable business if you choose a reputable franchise. Talk to existing franchisees to learn about their experiences.
Pet daycare and boarding
When pet owners need to be away, these services provide the perfect solution with their comprehensive pet care and dog daycare offerings.
Your dog will likely be engaging in practical exercise and other activities with their companions. Pet boarding facilities offer indoor and outdoor play areas. Some boarding facilities even have pools, televisions, and shuttle services to bring pets to and from the facility.
Most pet franchises are small businesses operating on a local level. Some are profitable franchises that cater to the growing demand for pet services and products. This makes them ideal for small business owners looking to take advantage of the e2 investor visa program.
With pet-related businesses continuing to rapidly expand, small franchise investors have more options than ever before when it comes to finding a successful small business opportunity in the US.
Be sure to research the market carefully and consider all factors involved before investing in a small franchise business. Here are some franchise opportunities in this sector with a lower initial franchise fee.
The Bottom Line
Small franchise business ownership is a rewarding job, however, it often requires making difficult decisions. You need to weigh what business you are passionate about, to find the cheapest and most profitable franchise business.
The four industries and franchise examples above enlighten you to find the right business path to take.
Fast food restaurants are quick to set up and require small amounts of capital, making them ideal for small business owners.
Cleaning services offer a great opportunity to serve both small residential and commercial customer, and it has low startup costs.
The fitness sector provides a wide range of services and can be tailored to your own city or neighborhood.
Finally, pet care is a booming business that is sure to bring in big profits if you seize its potential.
When considering which type of business venture to pursue in the United States, it’s essential to remember that a substantial investment is needed for an E2 visa.
If you want assistance to know what kind of franchise would be best for you, make sure to consult a qualified franchise consultant first.