#USA #Knoxville #UT Haslam #BrightStar Group #Shelly Sun

Introduction to the Free Franchising Course

The University of Tennessee's Haslam College of Business has made significant strides in the world of entrepreneurial education. With the sponsorship of successful entrepreneur Shelly Sun Berkowitz, the college is now offering a comprehensive franchising certification program at no cost to participants. This initiative aims to remove barriers to entry for individuals interested in the franchising business, making education more accessible to a diverse group of aspiring entrepreneurs.

The Vision Behind the Program

Shelly Sun Berkowitz, a prominent figure in the franchising industry and the founder of BrightStar Group Holdings Inc., has played a pivotal role in bringing this program to life. Her entrepreneurial journey began with a personal challenge when she struggled to find reliable home care for her grandmother. This experience led her to create BrightStar Care, which she started franchising in 2005. Today, the company boasts over 400 locations across the U.S., employing more than 20,000 staff members. Sun Berkowitz's mission is to empower others through franchising, allowing them to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.

Course Overview

The franchising certification program will be conducted through Haslam's Anderson Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. It spans a total of seven weeks, with each week focusing on a critical component of franchising:

• - Foundations: Understanding the unique aspects of franchising compared to other business models.
• - Evaluation: Identifying the right franchise business for your goals and interests.
• - Acquisition: Learning the intricacies of writing a business plan and obtaining the necessary funding.
• - Building: Strategies for recruiting, hiring, and retaining franchise employees.
• - Leadership: Developing the qualities and skills needed to lead a successful franchise.
• - Operations: Managing the various operational components that contribute to a thriving franchise.
• - Growth: Implementing best practices to ensure ongoing success and expansion.

Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive a certificate that acknowledges their preparedness to explore franchising opportunities.

Enrollment and Accessibility

The next session of the online program begins on October 6, 2025. It's essential for interested individuals to note that space is limited, and early enrollment is recommended. The program is intentionally designed to be accessible to all, with no prerequisites other than a genuine eagerness to learn about franchising.

Lindsay Mahony, the assistant department head at Haslam and director of the franchising initiatives, expressed her excitement about collaborating with Sun Berkowitz to broaden the reach of this educational endeavor. She noted that the program could significantly impact a wide array of entrepreneurs from various backgrounds.

Changing Perceptions of Franchising

Many Americans typically associate franchising with fast-food chains, often overlooking the extensive range of opportunities the franchising model offers. Through this certification program, the Haslam College of Business aims to educate participants about the diverse landscape of franchising. This includes sectors such as retail, health care, and others that benefit from franchised operations.

Sun Berkowitz emphasizes the importance of understanding the various types of franchises available, stating, "It's crucial to know how the model works to make informed decisions about your entrepreneurial journey."

Expert Guidance and Resources

To facilitate learning, Cordell Riley, a seasoned franchising expert with over three decades of experience, will lead the program. He reinforces the notion that effective franchisors provide comprehensive support and resources to ensure their franchisees' success. The program focuses on equipping participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate their franchising endeavors effectively.

Conclusion

For individuals considering a path in franchising—whether they are students, military personnel transitioning to civilian careers, or anyone with a passion for entrepreneurship—UT's no-cost franchising certification program offers a valuable opportunity. Enrollment is currently open until October 2, 2025, providing ample time for aspiring franchisees to take the first step towards their future in the world of franchising. Sun Berkowitz's vision, paired with the resources offered by the Haslam College of Business, sets a precedent for educational accessibility and entrepreneurial growth in the franchising domain.