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The Cost of Coming Up Short Most people who are serious about buying a franchise spend a lot of time thinking about the initial investment. And that makes sense. It's a big number, and it deserves serious attention. Some have the liquid capital ready to go. Others...
The Reality of Women in Business Today Women make up close to half of the workforce. We’re in the rooms, we’re doing the work, and we’re just as dedicated to our professional growth as our male counterparts. But being the hardest worker in the room often results in...
For many entrepreneurs starting a business or exploring franchise ownership, SBA loans remain one of the most powerful financing options available. They offer lower down payments, longer repayment terms, and flexible funding for a wide range of industries. One of the...
Finding the Right Business Match Valentine’s Day usually means dinner reservations, flower assortments, and way too much chocolate. People spend weeks planning it because the details matter, and so does the long-term connection. But here’s the thing: your professional...
Financial Industry Vet Honored with Entrepreneur of the Year Award The International Franchise Association (IFA) has selected Benetrends Financial founder and Chairman of the Board Len Fischer as the 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year. This prestigious award recognizes a...
We’re still taking it all in. Our Founder and Chairman, Len Fischer, has been named the International Franchise Association’s 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year, one of the most prestigious honors in franchising. For our team at Benetrends, this recognition is deeply...
Stop Guessing and Start Designing Your Future Most business owners misunderstand how to plan for retirement, treating it like a secondary goal instead of a core part of their future. They pour every ounce of energy into the daily grind while assuming the exit strategy...
Find What Drives You What really makes an emerging brand (and the people behind it) thrive? Early in my career, it looked like I had everything in place for success. But the truth is, I wasn’t happy. That season of life taught me a lesson I wish I’d understood...
You Don’t Need to Choose Just One Starting a business can seem a lot like navigating a corn maze. You stand at the entrance, assuming there’s one clear path forward, one “right” business funding option. Pick your lane, cross your fingers, and hope it works out. But...
As of October 14, 2025, the U.S. government remains in a shutdown that began on October 1, halting many federal operations, including those of the Small Business Administration (SBA). While this ongoing situation has created uncertainty for entrepreneurs and...