2016
143
$2,000
$735
$11,000
No
BeLocal is a unique, community-centered publication franchise that delivers hyperlocal, high-quality magazines to new movers in neighborhoods across the United States. Each BeLocal magazine serves as a trusted guide to local businesses, attractions, and services, helping newcomers feel at home faster. With a strong emphasis on print advertising, BeLocal offers businesses a valuable platform to reach a highly engaged audience.
The BeLocal franchise model is designed for sales professionals who are passionate about building connections within their communities. As a BeLocal Area Director, you will have the opportunity to create meaningful relationships with local businesses and residents, all while managing a flexible, home-based business.
Targeted Audience: Reach new movers—affluent, motivated individuals eager to explore their new community.
Proven Business Model: BeLocal is part of The N2 Company, a recognized leader in community publications.
Flexible Work Environment: Operate your business from home with the freedom to set your own schedule.
Uncapped Earnings Potential: Benefit from an uncapped commission structure, allowing you to earn based on your efforts.
Comprehensive Support: Receive training and ongoing support to help you succeed in your franchise journey.
Established: BeLocal was founded in 2016 as part of The N2 Company, a leader in community publications.
Franchise Units: As of 2025, BeLocal operates 143 locations across the United States, comprising 133 franchised units and 10 company-owned units.
Ownership: BeLocal is owned by The N2 Company, an award-winning organization recognized for growth and culture by Inc., Fortune, Entrepreneur, and Outside.
Industry Category: BeLocal operates within the community publication and advertising industry, focusing on print and digital media to connect businesses with new residents.
BeLocal offers a comprehensive support system to ensure franchisees are equipped to launch, operate, and grow their business successfully. The support spans pre-launch, operational, marketing, academic, and ongoing assistance.
Territory Selection & Analysis: BeLocal helps franchisees select optimal territories by analyzing market potential, demographics, and competition.
Business Setup Guidance: Guidance on registering your business, setting up your home office, and acquiring any necessary permits or licenses.
Launch Planning: Step-by-step assistance in creating a launch plan, including target client identification and initial advertising campaigns.
Franchisee Onboarding: A structured onboarding program covering all aspects of running a BeLocal franchise.
Content & Publication Training: Instruction on creating and managing high-quality local publications, including layout, editorial content, and distribution methods.
Sales Training: Practical training in B2B sales techniques to acquire advertisers and maintain strong client relationships.
Technology Systems Training: Guidance on using BeLocal’s proprietary systems for ad management, reporting, and customer relationship management (CRM).
National & Regional Marketing Support: Access to pre-designed campaigns, promotional materials, and branding guidelines to help attract new advertisers.
Digital Marketing Guidance: Strategies for leveraging social media, email newsletters, and online listings to increase visibility and sales.
Local Marketing Tools: Advice on hosting community events, partnerships, and sponsorships to boost brand awareness locally.
Workshops & Webinars: Regular training sessions on industry trends, sales techniques, and business growth strategies.
Resource Library: Access to manuals, guides, templates, and best practices for day-to-day operations.
Dedicated Franchise Support Team: Continuous assistance from regional managers and support staff for operational or sales challenges.
Performance Monitoring & Feedback: Regular reviews to track progress, identify growth opportunities, and provide actionable recommendations.
Peer Networking: Opportunities to connect with other franchisees to share insights, experiences, and strategies.
Local Initiatives: Assistance in building relationships with local businesses, schools, and community organizations to strengthen your market presence.
Event Participation Guidance: Help with organizing and participating in local events, expos, or sponsorships that increase brand exposure.
BeLocal is designed for driven, community-focused entrepreneurs who want to build a successful, home-based business in the publishing and advertising industry. The franchise seeks individuals who are not only business-minded but also passionate about connecting local communities with valuable resources and services.
Sales & Business Experience: Ideal candidates have experience in sales, marketing, business development, or customer service. A proven ability to generate leads, close deals, and manage client relationships is highly valued.
Entrepreneurial Mindset: Franchisees should be self-motivated, proactive, and comfortable running a small business independently.
Community Knowledge: Familiarity with the local market and neighborhood dynamics is advantageous, though not mandatory.
Community-Oriented: A strong desire to help local businesses grow and to engage meaningfully with residents.
Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal and networking abilities, capable of building trust with clients and partners.
Resilience & Adaptability: Willingness to learn, adapt, and overcome challenges in a dynamic business environment.
Customer-Focused: A genuine interest in delivering value to advertisers and readers alike.
Financial Readiness: Candidates should have the necessary investment capacity to cover franchise fees, initial setup, and working capital.
Risk Tolerance: Comfortable managing a low-to-moderate investment with realistic expectations of ROI and growth timelines.
Flexible Work Style: BeLocal is primarily home-based, so franchisees should thrive in a self-directed work environment.
Territory Engagement: Willingness to actively manage a defined geographic territory and personally connect with local businesses.
Time Commitment: Ability to dedicate sufficient hours to sales, operations, and community networking, especially during the launch and early growth phases.
Tech-Savvy: Comfortable using digital tools for content management, client tracking, and marketing.
Ethical & Professional: Adherence to BeLocal’s brand standards and commitment to professional conduct.
Long-Term Vision: Interest in growing the franchise within the community over multiple years, with the potential to expand territory or acquire additional units.
| Category | Details / Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $735 |
| Total Investment Required | $2,000 – $11,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | $2,000 |
| Infrastructure / Setup Cost | $500 – $3,000 (home office setup, technology, marketing) |
| Marketing Budget | $537/month (national & regional marketing support) |
| Working Capital | $1,000 – $2,500 (for initial operational costs) |
| Royalty Fees | 15% of gross revenue |
| Expected Annual Revenue (AUV) | $66,000 |
| Operating Profit Margin | ~15% |
| Break-Even Time | Typically within the first year |
| Revenue Streams | Print & digital advertising sales, local sponsorships, events |
