- This event has passed.
January 19 @ 7:30 am - 9:00 am
The Center for Free Enterprise kicks off 2024 with an excellent panel on building wealth with a franchise business.
Join us for an engaging and insightful franchise panel discussion on the world of franchising. We are thrilled to introduce our panelists:
- Terese McGroarty, a highly respected franchise consultant from FranNet of Northern Ohio, known for her expertise in assisting individuals in finding the perfect franchise that aligns with their needs, desires, and aspirations.
- Darlene Jacobson, the franchisee of Aussie Pet Mobile
- Rick McDermott, who will graciously share their invaluable firsthand experiences in the realm of franchise business ownership.
- Carrie Malotte, a distinguished SBA lender representing Westfield Bank, who will discuss the array of financing options available to those aspiring to embark on their franchise journey.
Collectively, these experts will provide invaluable insights, expert advice, and multifaceted perspectives on the continuously evolving landscape of franchising. Whether you are an aspiring franchisee seeking your entrepreneurial path or a seasoned business enthusiast, this discussion promises to be a captivating expedition into the dynamic realm of franchising and business ownership.
The discussion will be moderated by CFE Co-founder Ben Calkins of the Calkins Law Firm, Ltd.
About Ben Calkins
CFE co-founder Ben Calkins is an honors graduate of Harvard College and the University of Michigan Law School. His “new model” law firm, The Calkins Law Firm, Ltd. is a premier boutique law firm that specializes in business law and focuses on business transactions and business disputes. He maintains a perfect 10 “Superb” rating from Avvo.com and was presented the Client Distinction Award by Martindale Hubbell. Ben is the former President of both the Harvard Club of Northeast Ohio and Ohio Venture Association. Mr. Calkins co-founded the North Coast Angel Fund, one of the largest angel funds in America, as well as the Center for Free Enterprise.
About Terese McGroarty:
Terese, a passionate advocate for Cleveland and its many offerings, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to helping aspiring entrepreneurs discover their ideal franchise opportunities. Her journey in guiding clients towards the perfect franchise fit stems from her personal experience as a successful franchise owner.
In 1981, Terese, along with her husband, embarked on their franchise journey by becoming owners of a single unit of an automotive brand in the heart of Cleveland. Their remarkable success led to the expansion of their franchise portfolio, eventually growing to three locations, all of which were sold at a profitable margin. In 1993, they ventured into another exciting franchise brand, subsequently diversifying their business interests.
Since joining FranNet in 2014 as a franchise consultant, Terese has been dedicated to helping her clients turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Her expertise and guidance have empowered numerous individuals to achieve their aspirations of business ownership. Terese is excited to share her insights and wisdom as a panelist at the upcoming event, “Unlocking Franchise Success Secrets,” where she will provide valuable perspectives on achieving franchise success.
About Rick McDermott:
Rick’s journey into the world of sales and management training was anything but conventional. He spent much of his career working with several of North America’s largest steel distribution centers providing a broad range of products, value-added services, and logistic solutions to companies in diverse industries such as Oil & Gas, Semi-Conductor, Aerospace, Power Generation, and Capital Equipment Manufacturing.
In 2013 Rick went on to feed his entrepreneurial spirit by acquiring the license to Sandler Training here in the Cleveland market. Today, Sandler is the largest and most successful sales and sales leadership development program in the world with over 250 locations spanning 30 countries around the globe.
About Darlene Jacobson:
After more than 30 years in the corporate world, a job loss gave her the opportunity to finally spread her wings into entrepreneurship. She took the plunge and bought into a market leading franchise in the pet industry with the help of a knowledgeable franchise broker. Now in her seventh year, her pet grooming business has grown from one Pet Mobile unit to seven and from two to twelve employees.