SMB Franchise Advisors Adds Navigator Investment

SMB Franchise Advisors has received a minority investment from principals of Navigator Partners, adding capital and new board members as the franchise consulting firm expands its support services for franchisors. SMB said its current leadership team will remain responsible for strategy and day-to-day operations. The new board includes SMB Founder and CEO Steve Beagelman, Chief Growth Officer Brian Luciani, and Navigator Managing Partners Bernard Markey and William Stewart. SMB works with businesses considering franchising, as well as established franchisors seeking operational and growth advice.

Board Supports Next Growth Phase

The investment is intended to fund SMB’s development as a platform of services for franchisors. The company’s team of more than 20 subject matter experts advises clients on finance, operations, marketing and development, from initial franchise planning through expansion.

“We have worked closely with Navigator for over a decade, the better part of SMB's existence, to support select franchise brands in the ways we each do best, and in that time we've built a partnership grounded in common values and genuine mutual respect. With this investment, we will continue to do what we've always done, providing the best possible service to help our clients grow through franchising, now with the capital and expertise to scale and broaden our offerings while serving a growing pipeline of emerging and maturing brands.”

A Longstanding Franchise Relationship

Founded in 2009, SMB says it has worked with more than 600 companies across a range of industries. Beagelman and Luciani also operate Stadium Ventures, SMB’s investment division, which takes direct equity stakes in selected client franchise brands.

SMB and Navigator first worked together in 2016, when SMB brought Navigator in to invest in and help scale K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotels. Navigator has since co-invested with Stadium Ventures in Almera Tech Services, Pure Sweat Studios and Story Time Chess.

“We've seen firsthand what SMB's team is capable of, and we've always shared values and believed in the mission behind their work. Bill and I are thrilled to join the board, giving us an opportunity to contribute what we've learned building franchise systems together and serve founders for years to come.”

Support For Franchisees

The firms said their shared focus is on helping franchisors build systems that support franchisees as their networks grow. SMB is accepting new clients, including brands exploring franchising and companies seeking analysis and strategies for scaling.

“Importantly, we are all aligned on and work towards the mission that franchisors need to provide strong support to ensure their franchisees' success. We are glad that this investment will be used to build great franchisee support infrastructure to responsibly drive franchise system growth.”