If you are operating a small business and have plans for expansions, then the franchising model is one of the best options you have. By availing a franchise program of a larger company with a major brand name, you can earn a great recognition for your business, together with availing products that have been tremendously successful in the market, you will get the chance to tap into an already established customer base together with the opportunity of availing of a successful business plan together with training opportunities. Franchising is a great opportunity for small businesses which intend for higher levels of success but ensuring that the risks associated with achieving this kind of success remain minimal. To start off with establishing your small business as a franchise, the first step you will have to take is to develop knowledge regarding the ground information of franchises that already exist and have been functioning in the market. You should get in touch with a known franchising agent and pay visits to a variety of franchise expos. This way, you will develop a great understanding regarding how franchises work and what kind of returns you should expect if you opt for a particular franchising program. You can also research on the success of franchised stores and outlets within your locality and what kind of response they received from the customers. It would not be a great idea to open a small business franchise in a locality where other franchises are already operating in large numbers since you will not be able to get the desired slice in the market. However, it might be a great idea to open a franchise in a locality where even though there is stiff competition, but the demand for the product is still quite high. Your second job should be to compare various costs of establishing and starting a franchise. You should realize whether setting up a franchise would be a great idea or would running your small business the way it is under your cost limitations would be more feasible. By establishing a franchise, you will be reducing long term costs including those related to developing a business plan, training your employees and marketing your business. The starts up costs for various franchises vary greatly, with costs varying between different industries such as cleaning and fast food. You should always opt for a franchising program that your small business would be able to afford, without compromising on the quality of services and products that you are currently offering.