2008-10-02 03:00:01 -

- Media: FranNet Heather Gough, 502-753-2380 Marketing and Communications Manager hgough@frannet.com According to the International Franchise Association (IFA), women have founded 23 franchise systems in the United States, and the number of women-owned franchises continues to climb. Within a 10 year span, women-owned franchises increased nearly 17 percent according to the International Franchise Association reports. In addition, women, in general,

put a strong emphasis on networking, and building and maintaining positive workplace relationships, the Association said.

All in all - women continue to make strong impacts in the franchising market.

To keep momentum going, while recognizing Women's Small Business Month this October, FranNet salutes local women and their success in the corporate world, especially in franchising, said Jania Bailey, president and COO of FranNet.

"Franchising offers so many options for both men and women. However, through franchising, women can attain an enjoyable work-life balance," Bailey said. "Owning a small franchise business allows a woman to work around her lifestyle, instead of her having to work around her job. And, owning a franchise is like being in a family - an environment from which women naturally enjoy being a part of."

The success of women business owners spans across various markets. But there are certain sectors that are more popularized by women, Bailey said, including:

-- Child-focused franchises: Tutoring/educational companies, fitness programs, fun centers/birthday parties, creative and art-related businesses, daycare franchises

-- Service franchises: Fitness centers, expense management, residential cleaning, marketing, home decor, home improvement, business coaching, pet services, executive counseling, and consulting.

-- Computer/Internet franchises: Web site creation, search engine marketing, consulting, and repair are all fields that are excellent as home-based businesses.

"There are many opportunities in franchising and more women will seek a work-life balance - making franchising a more desirable alternative for business ownership," Bailey said.

FranNet consultants work individually with clients who are interested in purchasing a franchise business. They use a specific profiling and consultative process to determine a business model unique to each person, suggesting specific franchises that would best fit with each person's goals, skill sets and interests, both personally and professionally.

For more information about FranNet, visit www.frannet.com.

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FranNet recognizes Women's Small Business Month this October