Are you confused about the difference between the SBA franchise directory and the franchise registry and what recent changes mean for your brand's growth and funding? 

We are diving deep into urgent changes in franchise funding, specifically around the SBA Franchise Directory, a topic you can’t afford to overlook.

We are joined by Edith Wiseman, President of FRANdata. Edith is breaking down everything from what FRANdata actually does, think deep dives into franchisors and franchisees, and how this information is used by lenders, suppliers, and franchisors.

And most importantly, Edith is sharing the critical difference between the Franchise Registry and the SBA Franchise Directory. If you’ve ever mixed these two up this episode will bring you clarity. And we are digging into why the SBA disappeared and why it’s back with a June 1, 2025 deadline.

Edith Wiseman is the President of FRANdata, a leading franchise market research and advisory firm. With over 24 years in the industry, she transforms complex data into strategies that drive franchise growth and innovation. A trusted advisor to franchisors, lenders, and Fortune 500 companies, one franchisor said, “We couldn’t have grown to 1,000 stores and beyond without her and her team.”

Recognized by Entrepreneur and 1851 as a top woman in franchising, Edith has held key leadership roles within the International Franchise Association, including Board of Directors, Executive Committee, and Chair of the Supplier Forum. She continues to support industry advancement through initiatives focused on emerging brands and equitable growth, including the Ascension Initiative and the IFA Education Foundation.

So, if you are confused by the upcoming SBA Franchise Directory changes and what you need to know then this episode is for you!

Resources

Franchise Directory - https://www.sba.gov/document/support-sba-franchise-directory

Franchise Registry - https://www.franchiseregistry.com/

Current SBA SOP - https://www.sba.gov/document/sop-50-10-lender-development-company-loan-programs

Blog updates with summary of SOP changes - https://frandata.com/blog/

Connect with Edith

Email - [email protected]

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/edith-wiseman-281b6b/

Call FRANdata - 800-485-9570

Website - https://frandata.com/

Episode Highlights:

• Understanding FRANdata
• Distinguishing the Franchise Registry and SBA Franchise Directory
• SBA franchise directory changes
• Eligibility and certification process for SBA Franchise Directory
• Guidance for existing and emerging franchisors and the SBA Directory
• Key recent SBA and lending changes

Connect with Tracy

Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-panase/

JBF LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/jbfsale

JBF Franchise System - https://jbfsalefranchise.com/

Email: [email protected]

Connect with Shannon

Personal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonwilburn/

JBF LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/jbfsale