Steve Beagelman is a franchise industry veteran, with over 35 years of experience holding various positions from entrepreneur to senior level executive, giving him a unique insight and perspective in growing, operating, and building brands. In 2009, Steve established SMB Franchise Advisors, a franchise consulting company specializing in advising franchise start-ups and existing franchise concepts of ways to drive business growth. Now almost 15 years later, the company has helped over 450 brands launch into franchising. Steve specializes in private equity transactions and in helping SMB clients expand their brands. He also invests in franchise brands across several different industries.

Outside of SMB, Steve regularly writes for Forbes as an expert in the franchise industry and has been quoted numerous times in the Wall Street Journal, Franchising World and Franchise Times and recently contributed to a book, “Franchising Strategies.” Steve sits on several boards in the franchise industry and is a frequent guest speaker at colleges and franchise conferences.

Steve’s career began in a family packaging business back in 1986. By the time he was 21 years old, he spearheaded his own franchise operation as the co-founder of Black Tie Express, a start-up multi-restaurant delivery service. The company grew to a successful 30-unit operation, and Steve completed the title sale to Takeout Taxi, the market leader. He has also held top-level positions at popular franchise brands Hollywood Tans, Saladworks, Rita’s Water Ice, and Restaurant Systems International.

In 2006, Steve received his Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) from the International Franchise Association (IFA). He is a graduate of Pace University, holding a Bachelor’s degree in business, with a concentration in business management.