How Much Does a Set The Stage Franchise Cost?
Data from the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document
Investment Summary
Total Investment
$190K – $238K
Franchise Fee
$60K
Royalty
the greater of 6% of Gross Revenues or a minimum monthly royalty
Ad Fund
2.0%
Cost Breakdown
Initial Franchise Fee
The initial franchise fee for Set The Stage is $60K. This one-time payment covers the right to operate under the brand, access to proprietary systems, and initial training programs.
Total Investment Range
Opening a Set The Stage franchise requires a total investment of $190K – $238K. This range typically includes real estate or leasehold improvements, equipment and fixtures, initial inventory, signage, insurance, and working capital to sustain operations during the ramp-up period.
Working capital alone ranges from $9K to $15K.
Ongoing Costs
Beyond the initial investment, Set The Stage franchisees pay ongoing fees. The royalty structure is: the greater of 6% of Gross Revenues or a minimum monthly royalty. The advertising or brand fund contribution is 2.0% of gross sales. There is also a technology fee of $250.
Net Worth & Liquid Capital Requirements
Set The Stage requires working capital of $9K – $15K to cover initial operating expenses. This is the liquid cash you should have available beyond the franchise fee and buildout costs.
What Can You Earn?
According to Set The Stage's Item 19 financial performance representation:
Median gross sales: $244K
This figure comes from Item 19 of the FDD. Gross sales are not the same as take-home profit. After deducting royalties, ad fund fees, rent, labor, and COGS, net income is typically a fraction of gross revenue.
How Do Banks View Set The Stage?
SBA Loans Issued
23
Default Rate
N/A
The SBA (Small Business Administration) tracks loan performance for franchise brands. Set The Stage has 23 SBA-backed loans on record. A lower default rate generally indicates that lenders view the franchise as a safer investment, though past performance does not guarantee future results.
Next Steps
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