Established
2016
Franchise Units
143
Minimum Investment
$2,000
Franchise Fee
$735
Total Investment Range
$11,000
Home Based
No
Description
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.
Why Invest in BeLocal?
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Targeted Audience: Reach new movers—affluent, motivated individuals eager to explore their new community.
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Proven Business Model: BeLocal is part of The N2 Company, a recognized leader in community publications.
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Flexible Work Environment: Operate your business from home with the freedom to set your own schedule.
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Uncapped Earnings Potential: Benefit from an uncapped commission structure, allowing you to earn based on your efforts.
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Comprehensive Support: Receive training and ongoing support to help you succeed in your franchise journey.
Background
Founded: 2016
Founders: Duane Hixon and Earl Seals
Headquarters: Wilmington, North Carolina
Active Units: 143
Industry Category: Advertising, Media, and Marketing Services
The story of BeLocal began when the leadership at The N2 Company—already successful with their flagship brand Stroll (formerly Neighborhood Networks)—realized that new movers were an underserved demographic. While many businesses were trying to reach everyone, BeLocal was designed to help them reach the right people at the right time. Since its inception, BeLocal has rapidly expanded across the United States, consistently appearing on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies and receiving high marks for franchisee satisfaction.
Support Training
BeLocal offers one of the most comprehensive "business-in-a-box" support systems in the franchise world. They don't just hand you a manual; they walk the path with you.
Pre-Launch & Academic Training
Every new franchisee attends "N2 University." This intensive program covers everything from the psychology of sales to the logistics of community building. You’ll learn the proprietary BeLocal sales process, how to identify top-tier business partners, and how to use the internal CRM.
Operational & Marketing Support
Graphic Design: You don't need to be an artist. A professional design team at the home office handles all ad creation and publication layouts.
Printing & Distribution: The corporate office manages the logistics of high-quality printing and ensures the guides are mailed directly to the doors of new movers.
Marketing Collateral: You are provided with professionally branded sales kits, testimonials, and data-driven case studies to help you close deals.
Ongoing Field Support
You are assigned a Area Director or mentor—someone who has already succeeded in the role—to provide coaching, role-play sales calls, and help you troubleshoot local market challenges. There are also annual conferences and weekly webinars to keep you sharp.
Ideal Candidate
We aren't looking for "publishers"; we are looking for connectors. The most successful BeLocal owners share these traits:
Relationship-Driven: You genuinely like people. You enjoy networking, attending chamber events, and building long-term partnerships.
Sales Mindset: While you don't need a 20-year sales resume, you must have the "grit" to hunt for new business and the resilience to handle "no" on the way to a "yes."
Community Pride: You should have a deep love for your local area and a desire to see local small businesses thrive.
Financial Capability: Candidates should have a liquid capital of roughly $10,000 - $25,000 to comfortably launch and manage the initial phase.
Location Preference: Entrepreneurs who live within or very near the territory they wish to serve have a distinct advantage, as they understand the local culture and "hidden gems" of the community.
Financial Detail
| 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 |