Julie Bennett

A Franchise Disclosure Document, with its piles of legalese, can be daunting. Here's how to read between the lines.

Prospective franchisees often begin their journey at Discovery Day events -- but not everyone makes the cut.

Consumer spending and hiring aren't expected to increase much in 2011. But for some franchises, it will be a different story.

You can't always bet on a franchise success, but you can put the odds in your favor.

These franchise owners share something in common: An indomitable spirit, which makes their personal stories so enlightening.

A first-time review by the U.S. Census Bureau dissects franchising, one stat at a time.

So you have a genius idea. Here's what it takes to get a new product to market.

Thousands of Americans are using retirement savings to start new businesses. Some thrive, others founder. Is the gamble worth it?

It's a buyer's market for commercial space, and landlords are offering huge concessions to new tenants--but you won't get a nickel unless you know what to ask for.

Billions of dollars are pouring into clean-tech companies--with little results. Is this an intelligent investment or the beginning of another bubble?

Entrepreneur takes a close look at who's lending and when the cost is too high.

If you're headed to the bank for a loan, this advice may help speed along your application.

The second part of a two-part series on the pros and cons of franchising vs. operating an independent business

The right stuff: For companies sniffing out potential franchisees, a clean financial history isn't enough anymore.

Many buyers' problems stem from errors they made before signing on the dotted line.

Would-be franchisees should ask these questions about a system's advantages and drawbacks. Plus, discuss franchising's pros and cons.

Is an Existing Franchise a Safer Investment?

Is Your Personality Suited to Franchising?

Caring for Seniors Is a Lucrative Franchise

Seasonal Franchises Will Deck Your Halls

Chinese Market Offers Franchise Challenges

Service Franchises Are Going Global

Training, Trig, Teriyaki: Franchises Go Global

Franchising Attracts More Women, Minorities

Even Fringe Franchises Can Find a Following

Industry Group Seeks to Court Franchisees

Weight-Loss Franchises Pursue Fat Profits

Fast-Food Franchisees Share Secrets to Success

Franchise Regulations of the Past, Present and Future

The Scoop on Premium Ice-Cream Franchises