Definition:
A candidate is someone seriously considering buying a franchise. This person is in the early stages of research and exploring if the opportunity fits their goals, lifestyle, and budget.
Use It in a Sentence:
After careful consideration, Mark knew he was a strong candidate for starting his own franchise business.
Why Is a Candidate Important?
A candidate is more than just someone curious, they’re taking active steps toward business ownership. That includes reviewing key documents, asking smart questions, and thinking about long-term goals. For a brand like CoolVu, the candidate stage is where great partnerships begin.
During this stage, the Federal Trade Commission requires that the candidate receives the FDD. This ensures full transparency about costs, responsibilities, and what they can expect as a franchise owner. That way, there’s no confusion down the road.
A strong candidate stands out early on. They show up prepared, motivated, and ready to learn. Brands like CoolVu take note. Whether someone wants to operate locally or step into a bigger role, like an Area Developer or even a Master Franchisee, every successful franchise journey starts with being well-informed.

CoolVu also tracks each lead carefully. From that first inquiry, the goal is to help candidates decide if this is the right move.
Being a great candidate means doing your homework, asking questions, and staying open to expert advice. It’s the first step in owning something real.
Related Dictionary Terms:
- Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD): A legal document given to candidates that explains the franchise details.
- Franchisee: Someone who buys the rights to operate under a franchise brand.