Dine Brands Foundation Announces Support for New Initiative to Catalyze Franchise Ownership Among Underrepresented Groups

Dine Brands Foundation today announces its support for the International Franchise Association (IFA)’s new Franchise Ascension Initiative, an accelerator program established to support individuals from underrepresented communities with education, mentorship, resources, and financial support to successfully launch a career in franchise ownership. By increasing diversity in the franchisee talent pipeline, the Ascension Initiative aims to narrow the wealth gap and provide qualified individuals with business ownership opportunities.

“Franchising is one of the greatest pathways to business ownership and creating generational wealth,” said Matt Haller, IFA President and CEO. “This program ensures that access to opportunity is available to everyone, regardless of background. What better way to bridge the wealth gap than through opening more doors for minority business owners. With the support of our generous partners like Dine Brands, the Ascension Initiative will further help to change lives and communities through franchising.”

The Dine Brands Foundation pledged $100,000 to launch the effort, which will begin accepting applications in the coming months. The first cohort of participants is expected in late 2024.

“We are proud to announce our financial contribution to support the Franchise Ascension Initiative. Our ongoing support underscores our commitment to creating opportunities in the restaurant industry for a diverse workforce and recruiting franchisees from underrepresented communities to the Dine table,” said John Peyton, Dine Brands chief executive officer.

According to data from Oxford Economics, Black-owned franchises earn 2.2 times more than Black-owned independent businesses; Hispanic-owned franchises earn 1.6 times more than Hispanic-owned independent businesses; and Asian-owned franchises earn 1.4 times more than Asian-owned independent businesses.

The Franchise Ascension Initiative will select capable candidates for a rigorous six-month education program to help them build the essential skills they need to be successful franchisees. Building on IFA’s extensive library of franchise educational materials, the program will be specifically curated for participants, along with individualized mentorship. The program will culminate in a pitch contest with potential franchise opportunities.

The Dine Brands Foundation was established to further strengthen and establish partnerships with community-based nonprofit organizations that address food insecurity and hunger relief, bringing communities together through nutrition education and access, and creating opportunities in the restaurant industry for a diverse workforce. Dine and its brands – Applebee’s, Fuzzy’s Taco Shop and IHOP – have been giving back to communities where they operate for decades and remain focused on creating experiences for all stakeholders to dine better, together.