Associate Membership

Protect yourself before and after you invest

Buying a franchise is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where the AAFD comes in! We provide trusted guidance, exclusive resources, and expert consultation to help you evaluate options, avoid costly mistakes, and identify opportunities with confidence.

Whether you’re exploring a franchising investment opportunities, learning how to evaluate a franchise, or advocating for more equitable and fair practices, AAFD’s Associate Membership is your key to navigating the world of franchising confidently.

Who is the Associate Membership For?

The AAFD Associate Membership is specifically designed for individuals who are looking to make informed decisions about their franchise opportunities, support fair franchising practices, and benefit from expert resources and networks. It’s perfect for:

  • Prospective Franchisees who need guidance and support as they explore available franchise options.
  • Potential Franchisee Buyers seeking critical resources to evaluate franchise contracts and opportunities.
  • Fair Franchising Advocates committed to promoting equitable franchise practices.
  • Individuals without the need of being part of a Chapter franchise association yet still want access to AAFD’s resources and benefits.

If this sounds like you, then AAFD’s Associate Membership is the perfect fit to empower your franchising decisions.

Key Benefits of an AAFD Associate Membership

By becoming an Associate Member, you gain access to a wealth of resources, exclusive discounts and tools to aid you on your franchise journey.

Legal & Discounts Benefits

  • Free Initial Legal Consultation: Associate members receive a complimentary legal consultation from an attorney affiliated with AAFD Franchisee LegaLine.

  • Discounts from AAFD Franchisee Attorneys : Associate members can take advantage of expert legal assistance to review franchise contracts, franchise disclosure documents, and more

  • Professional Services Vouchers : Associate members receive a Professional Services Voucher redeemable for a half hour credit against any bill for services from consultations with LegaLine affiliated attorneys.

  • Franchise Evaluation Tools: Evaluate prospective franchise opportunities against the AAFD’s “Eight Things to Look for in a Franchise Opportunity” and the AAFD Franchisee Bill of Rights.

  • Member-Only Deals: Enjoy AAFD-branded programs designed to save you money or enhance your business, including pre-negotiated discounts and special offers from trusted suppliers.

  • AAFD Health Benefits Suites: Affordable health care suite of options for AAFD Members and their family.

Community & Networking Benefits

  • Free Access to AAFD Social: A Networking Platform for AAFD Members. A secure, private community forum where you can network, connect, and collaborate with fellow franchisees.

  • Access to Member Portal Only: Gain access to educational materials, webinars, and other content designed specifically for franchisees.

  • Franchisee Voice Subscription: Newsletter and frequent email Member Alerts to stay informed on the latest industry developments.

  • Franchisee Leadership Summit: Associate members enjoy exclusive discounts, special pricing, and added benefits when attending our Annual Summit and Meeting.

  • Contributor Posting to the Franchisee Voice Blog: Gain the opportunity to submit articles, op-eds, and thoughtful contributions, all published under one of our departments.

Be wise in your franchise search – your future career and money is on the line!

Your Center for Total Quality Franchising®

More reasons to choose AAFD as your Franchise journey partner

Fair Franchising Standards

To advance the AAFD Fair Franchising Standards as a guiding framework for franchisee and to tackle systemic abuses through legal and legislative action when win-win negotiations fall short.

Legislative & Advocacy

To represent Association members by exerting collective influence in matters of mutual concern and by advocating beneficial legislation and legal doctrines and providing legal support for members.

Support of AAFD Mission

The AAFD is dedicated to making your business work better, and to help you increase your profits and your quality of life. We will only complete the journey with your continued and renewed support.

Exclusive offers from our Suppliers

Franchisee Attorney