BLAIR, NEBRASKA (2025 February 10, Monday)
Don Harrold, Writer / Editor
editor@blairtoday.com – Facebook
Imagine if you didn’t have to drive to Omaha every time you needed certain services or products. What if those businesses existed right here in Blair – and what if you could be the one to own them?
On February 20th, Blair residents will get a unique opportunity to learn how they could open their own business in town, potentially earning a six-figure income while serving their neighbors’ needs. Whether you’ve dreamed of being your own boss or just want to learn how Blair could grow, this free event at the Blair Public Library could be your first step toward a new future.
When Blair residents drive to Omaha for services they can’t find locally, it’s like watching money flow south down Highway 75. Blake Martin wants to help stop that flow.
In an interview with BlairToday, Martin, of FranNet of The Heartland and a recognized franchise expert with over two decades of experience, is bringing his economic development expertise to Blair Public Library on February 20th from 4:30-6:30 PM for a free forum focused specifically on Blair’s business needs.
FranNet, a well-established franchise consulting firm, has been connecting entrepreneurs with franchise opportunities for over 30 years. The company uses a proven seven-step process that includes personality analysis, investment range determination, and local market research to match potential business owners with suitable franchises. FranNet consultants work as guides through the entire franchise-buying journey, from initial education through final decision-making, helping entrepreneurs avoid common pitfalls while saving both time and money. Their no-cost consulting services include introductions to vetted franchise opportunities, guidance on reviewing franchise disclosure documents, and connections to essential resources like franchise attorneys and funding partners.
“Blair’s in a unique position,” Martin explained. “You’re just far enough north of Omaha to avoid being completely pulled into Omaha’s economic orbit, but it’s a constant struggle to keep money in Blair.”
The forum isn’t about bringing Omaha businesses north. Instead, Martin emphasizes finding local entrepreneurs who can own and operate franchises that serve Blair’s specific needs. His research, conducted with the Chamber of Commerce and Gateway Development, has identified several underserved sectors in Blair including specialty food services, convenience-related businesses, and trades-based services.
Martin’s path to franchise consulting is as practical as his approach to helping communities. He built a home care company in Michigan over 20 years ago, then helped develop Omaha-based Right at Home’s franchise system. Now a Certified Franchise Executive and University of Michigan psychology graduate, he’s helped hundreds become successful small business owners.
Technology as an Advantage
When asked about AI’s impact on small-town businesses, Martin offered an unexpected perspective. Rather than seeing technology as a threat, he views it as an equalizer. “Franchises tend to level the playing field,” he explained. “The franchise organization can bring technological competition, including AI, to that local owner-operator, so they’re punching above their weight class.”
He cited his own experience: “I’m a local franchisee myself. The AI tools my franchisor provides for customer response and market analysis – there’s no way I could implement that myself.”
Real Investment, Real Returns
For Blair residents considering business ownership, Martin provided clear financial guidance. Successful franchise opportunities typically require at least $25,000 in liquid capital to start, with the goal of generating six-figure incomes. These aren’t get-rich-quick schemes, but rather solid business opportunities backed by proven systems.
Changing Demographics, New Opportunities
The forum will address Blair’s changing demographics, including the growing Hispanic population (now 7.5% of school-age children) and an aging population base. Martin explained how franchisors continuously analyze demographic shifts and provide ready-made solutions, from bilingual training materials to services targeting senior citizens.
Success Stories and Practical Solutions
Martin shared a success story from a similar forum in Holdrege, where they helped a local entrepreneur start a surface restoration business serving restaurants and boats from nearby Johnson Lake. “We’re not coming to Blair to just sell franchises,” Martin emphasized. “We’re coming to brainstorm solutions for gaps in local services.”
The February 20th forum will bring together resources from the Washington County Chamber, Gateway Development, and other local economic development experts. Attendees will learn about:
- Identifying underserved market needs in Blair
- Available franchise opportunities that match local needs
- Resources for business startup funding
- How franchising can help inexperienced entrepreneurs succeed
- Ways to keep Blair’s economic growth local
“Most franchises do really well because they’re not necessarily looking for somebody that has experience in that field,” Martin noted. “They’re looking for people with transferable professional skills who can learn their proven system.”
For Blair residents feeling stuck in their current jobs or looking for new opportunities, Martin offered encouragement: “We’re trying to surround them with resources and other entrepreneurs who can build confidence and understanding of what’s possible right here in Blair.”
The event is free, but pre-registration is recommended. As Martin puts it, “We’re here to introduce people to new ideas and new ways we might work together to grow opportunities within Blair and Washington County. If you come to this session, between what I’m presenting and what the Chamber and Gateway are bringing, we may very well help you advance your professional career right here in Blair.”
Economic Development Forum: Blair’s Business Future
Date: Thursday, February 20, 2024
Time: 4:30 – 6:00 PM CST
Location: Blair Public Library & Technology Center (2233 Civic Drive)
This interactive forum will explore economic growth opportunities in Blair and Washington County. The Washington County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director will provide a 2025 update, followed by featured presenter Blake Martin of FranNet discussing franchise opportunities and market analysis.
Key Discussion Topics:
- Current market gaps and development needs
- Potential for new business channels
- National franchise expansion opportunities
- Identifying local franchise operators
Light refreshments will be served. Join community leaders and entrepreneurs in shaping Blair’s economic future.
