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Franchise Evaluator: Fundraising University
Fundraising University offers a robust support system, a scalable business model, and a commitment to community impact, presenting a compelling opportunity for individuals dedicated to enhancing their local communities. By facilitating support for school sports programs and student athletes with minimal overhead and significant return on investment potential, Fundraising University empowers franchisees to thrive in this dynamic industry, backed by a strong and supportive leadership team.
Fundraising University
Franchise at a Glance
2162 E Williams Field Rd
Suite #111
Gilbert, AZ 85295
Founded in 2009, Fundraising University is a leader in the school sports fundraising industry, equipping students, coaches, and communities to dream big and raise more. By unifying teams, fueling programs, and creating lasting, positive change in communities, Fundraising University has established a proven and scalable business model. With low start-up costs, minimal operating expenses, and exceptional unit economics.
MARKET Factors
What population does the brand serve? Is the market broad, niche, or somewhere in-between?
1 of 1Market Size
The school sports fundraising industry represents a significant and growing market due to the increasing underfunding of school sports by districts. With over 50 million students enrolled in public schools in the U.S. and many engaged in extracurricular sports, the demand for effective fundraising solutions continues to rise.
10
Scale
Is the overall industry growing, that is creating new customers who have never used these services before, or mature where most population segments are already using these types of products and services?
1 of 1Industry Trends
The financial burden on families and schools has made sports team fundraising essential to their continued survival. Trends indicate a move toward more structured, professionalized fundraising approaches, replacing unorganized and ineffective methods. Fundraising University’s turnkey solutions align perfectly with these trends.
9
Scale
What drives the purchase of the product or service? Is it a “need-to-buy” or a “want-to-buy”? How are customers drawn to your business?
1 of 1Product and Service Drivers
Fundraising University offers three primary products: Discount Cards, Product Sales, and Donations. These products cater to diverse needs and provide value to both student-athletes and community members. Their proven sales process and focus on repeat business create a reliable revenue stream for franchisees.
9
Scale
Are competitors a major factor in operating your business? If so, is competition sparse or saturated? Will it matter to your business?
1 of 1Competitive Climate
Competition in the fundraising industry is fragmented, with many local and unorganized players. Fundraising University distinguishes itself through its professional approach, high-quality training, and robust operational support. This ensures franchisees can effectively compete and excel in their markets.
10
Scale
Are the business’s products or services regulated, or do they require licensing? Will you or your employees require special licensing? If so, is the regulatory climate strict or lax? Will this affect recruiting employees?
1 of 1Regulatory Climate
Fundraising University operates in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations governing school fundraising activities. Prospective franchisees should be aware that territories in certain states, including UT, WI, NE, CA, HI, MD, and WA, are unavailable due to regulatory or operational considerations.
8
Scale
BUSINESS MODEL Factors
This is one of the most important factors of all. To understand it you have to look beyond what the business physically does, the services performed or products sold and ask how does the franchise make money? Where does the revenue come from? How is it generated? Are financial performance representations made? Coupled with External Factors 1, 2 and 5 – Market Size, Industry Trend and Competitive Climate and the next Internal Factor 2, Franchisee Role – the true nature of the franchise starts to take shape.
1 of 1Revenue Model
Fundraising University’s business model is highly scalable, with recurring revenue driven by a 90% company-wide re-sign rate. Franchisees benefit from a predictable income stream, low initial costs, and minimal ongoing expenses. The franchise fee is $80,000, with discounts for multiple units.
9
Scale
How developed are the systems on which you will rely to operate your business?
1 of 1Operational Systems
The operational framework includes robust technology, such as a Google Suite-integrated CRM platform and digital fundraising platforms. These tools enhance efficiency and streamline tasks like lead generation, product procurement, and fundraiser execution.
9
Scale
In this highly diffuse world, creating, managing and projecting a Brand is essential for the health and vitality of a franchise system. How well does the Franchisor manage this? How well positioned is the brand among competitors? Is it differentiated enough? How well would potential customers recognize the brand? How is it projected into new markets? What is your role and obligations in this process? How is the Brand’s digital footprint managed?
1 of 1Brand Management
Fundraising University’s brand emphasizes community impact, teamwork, and customer service. Their marketing support includes graphic design, lead generation assistance, and access to a central purchasing network. This ensures franchisees have the tools needed to maintain and grow the brand’s reputation.
10
Scale
What role is the franchisee expected to play in starting, ramping and the ongoing operation of the business?
1 of 1Fundraising University Franchisee Role
Franchisees focus on three core activities: selling, setting up, and executing fundraisers. Responsibilities include engaging with coaches, managing product and merchant partnerships, and leading fundraisers to successful outcomes. Franchisees are trained to re-sign teams for repeat business, ensuring long-term growth
9
Scale
What type of location, if any, is needed to deliver the product or service? If real estate is needed, are the requirements flexible or stringent? Is real estate essential to the product or brand experience or required for services to be performed onsite?
1 of 1Real Estate Requirements
Fundraising University franchises are home-based, requiring minimal real estate investment. This low-overhead model allows franchisees to focus resources on growing their business.
10
Scale
ORGANIZATION Factors
How experienced is the franchisor at being a franchisor?
1 of 1Franchising Experience
Fundraising University started franchising in 2020 and has sold 70 units to date. Their structured support and training programs ensure franchisees are well-prepared to succeed, even without prior fundraising experience.
10
Scale
What is the tenure, background, and commitment of the franchise’s leadership?
1 of 1Franchise Leadership
For over 15 years, the Fundraising University’s leadership team brings extensive experience and a hands-on approach to supporting franchisees. Key members include Mike Bahun, a proven fundraising executive, and Michael Effinger, a pioneer in sales training. Their combined expertise fosters a collaborative and results-driven environment
10
Scale
How often and how well does the franchisor engage franchisees? What assistance is provided in starting and operating your business.
1 of 1Franchisee Engagement
Franchisees receive initial training in Phoenix, followed by 90 days of direct support. Ongoing engagement includes weekly training calls, field support, and collaborative resources from experienced corporate representatives. Annual meetings and continuous coaching reinforce franchisee success.
9
Scale
In what kind of financial shape is the franchisor?
1 of 1Financial Health of the Franchise
The franchisor demonstrates strong financial health, with significant revenue generated through its proven business model. This stability provides prospective franchisees with confidence about the long-term viability of their investment.
10
Scale
Key Points
Total Investment
Cash Investment
Minimum Net Worth
Franchise Fee
Item 19*
Local Marketing
Flat rate that scales with the business
International Franchises
Canada Franchises
Master Franchise Opportunities
Company Owned Units
Franchised Units
Royalty Fee
6.5%
Average Number of Employees
Passive Ownership
Yes
B2B
Visa Candidates
Home Based
Veteran Discount
Yes
5% - must be direct involvement for Franchisee
Total Franchise Evaluator Score
0 – 24
Missing fundamental, internal or external factors
25 – 49
More investigation is needed
50 – 74
Worth exploring further with caution
75 – 99
Add to consideration set
100 – 140
Sound opportunity and likely a great fit