Jason Daley | Page 9

With hard work and trust in the concept, franchisees can make it big. From a maid service, to a restaurant and a photography studio, here's how three entrepreneurs profited from their own spin on a franchise's business plan.

How do you know when it's time to alter the strategy of your business? Here's how to pivot to a better business model midstream.

A Moe's Southwest Grill franchisee's idea for a smaller, more healthful burrito was a hit with customers chainwide.

For better quality child care, this franchisor turned to those with the most experience.

Boston College's John Gallaugher doesn't try to be an all-knowing mentor to his students. But he does lead them on their first trek into the galaxy of tech.

Candida Brush knows the ultimate irony of successful entrepreneurship: It's not about doing something on your own.

Alain Kaloyeros pioneered nanotech research at the University at Albany. Now he oversees a program in which students are trained to be both scientists and entrepreneurs.

A San Francisco Bay Area entrepreneur harnesses tax credits and the power of the sun to fire up a successful solar panel installation franchise.

From rock 'n roll to divorce to kickball, these companies take franchising to a new creative level.

After college, a twentysomething rejects loftier professions and becomes Sir Grout's hardest-working franchisee.

Cooked up by epicurious entrepreneurs, the mobile food business is starting to whet the appetites of established companies.

The backstory on Charley Shin's remake of a Philly tradition.

A retired sailor sheds her sea legs and finds solid ground--and financial freedom--as owner of a franchise.

After conquering gourmet ice cream and Southwestern cuisine, three franchise veterans kick off their shoes and get into sandals.

Two sisters and their retired mom team up to nurture a neglected franchise that sells used clothing for kids.

These franchisees packed up their homes and their previous careers to pursue small-business success in new cities

Restaurants that woo men with attractive waitresses, big beer selections & giant TVs are winning loyal customers--and raking in revenues.

This Web hub helps companies communicate their uniqueness and sell their goods.

Instead of letting a promising deal get away, a Texas couple moves across the state -- and finds even more than they bargained for.

A unique cleaning franchise recently expanded to the U.S. from Vancouver, British Columbia, via Scotland.

This self-service app creator aims to make it cheap and easy to go mobile. Plus, a look at other game-changers in the mobile space.

This Lafayette, Ind.-based company lets seniors and their families know that someone has their backs. Plus, other game-changers meeting the needs of older consumers.

This vending company reinvents the business by stocking health and information. Plus, a look at other game-changers in the health space.

The Orchard's early insight into digital distribution of music is proving bountiful -- and helping independent musicians get on the radar.

A Wisconsin franchisee discovers the secret behind a pizza chain's unparalleled popularity and makes a bundle in the bargain.

The best artists in the business want to lay down their tracks at Allen Sides' Ocean Way Recording. Now he's taking his state-of-the-art studio expertise to them.

Zips Dry Cleaners is proof that good things can happen when (lots of) great minds think alike.

Many American franchises are not only surviving the recession but thriving in it by expanding their operations globally.

Local schools in need of new equipment win big when they partner with a Sports Image franchise.

After a brain injury left him disoriented and forgetful, a former small-business owner finds clarity in cooking.