Questions and Topics We Can Help You To Answer: 

Instructions: There are several Web sites that provide information and support for would-be entrepreneurs. 


Go to the Entrepreneur’s Mind Web site at the first URL below. This site is a resource that presents many examples of real-life stories and advice from successful entrepreneurs. Select the link to the Launch Pad, which profiles the startup of a new business and answer Question 1. 

Next, go to Franchising.com below. This company provides both domestic and international information and support for entrepreneurs interested in obtaining a franchise. Information for the first-time franchise buyer is included, as well as information on companies that are currently expanding their franchises around the world. Read the "How-to-Franchise Guide" and then answer Question 2. 

If you are really interested in obtaining a franchise from a specific company, there are several ways to research that company on the Internet. One way to start would be to begin a general Web search using the company name. If it is a corporation, you could check with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), using the third URL below. The SEC’s EDGAR database is maintained to provide information on companies that are regulated by the SEC. Go to this site and answer Question 3. 

URLs

The Entrepreneur's Mind  - http://www.benlore.com/index2.html


Franchising  - http://www.franchising.com/howtofranchiseguide/


Securities and Exchange Commission - http://www.sec.gov/cgi-bin/srch-edgar



Questions:

Question 1:  Describe the business, how the owner started up the business, and what products or services the business provides. 

Question 2:  Briefly summarize the pros and cons of using franchising as a business model. 

Question 3:  Think of three well-known corporations in your area and see what you can find out about them using the EDGAR Search option.