Connect with us

Technology

BNI® Reopens U.S. Franchise Opportunities, Fueling Small Business Growth

Published

2 years ago

on

CHARLOTTE, N.C., March 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — For the first time in nearly ten years, BNI® (Business Network International)—the world’s largest business referral network—is bringing franchise opportunities back to the U.S., creating new pathways for entrepreneurial success and small business growth.

“This is an exciting moment for entrepreneurs who want to make a real impact in their communities.”

For 40 years, BNI has helped business owners expand through its proven networking system, fostering referral-driven success in communities around the world. In the past 12 months alone, BNI Members have exchanged 16.8 million referrals, generating a record-breaking $25.4 billion USD in business revenue1—a milestone that underscores the power of structured networking.

“This is an exciting moment for entrepreneurs who want to make a real impact in their communities,” said Mary Kennedy Thompson, CEO of BNI. “With franchise opportunities returning to the U.S., business leaders now have the chance to take charge of their future, build thriving professional networks, and drive lasting economic success. BNI is more than a business—it’s a movement of shared success and community-driven progress.”

BNI franchise ownership provides entrepreneurs and business leaders with access to a globally recognized brand, a time-tested business model, and comprehensive training, coaching, and marketing support. This is more than just a business investment—it’s an opportunity to achieve financial independence while making a lasting impact on local businesses and economies.

BNI’s leadership team is comprised of highly experienced franchise professionals dedicated to the success of its franchisees. The U.S. team includes Dr. Lisa Renz, President of BNI US; Michael Walchonski, Chief Development Officer; Adam Petersen, VP of Franchise Development; and Dave Collins, Chief Operating Officer—each bringing extensive expertise in business growth and franchise excellence.

BNI is led by CEO Mary Kennedy Thompson, a distinguished franchise leader with a proven track record of success. As the 2025 Chair of the International Franchise Association (IFA), Mary is recognized as an influential voice in the franchising industry. She previously served as the COO of Neighborly®, a global franchisor of home service brands, and was herself a successful franchisee of Cookies by Design.

Mary and the U.S. team bring invaluable insight and leadership to BNI’s franchise expansion, ensuring that franchisees have the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive.

With BNI’s structured referral system and global support network, franchise owners gain the tools to expand their influence, foster meaningful business relationships, and build a foundation for long-term success.

This announcement comes at an exciting time for BNI, as the organization continues to expand its impact after 40 years of empowering entrepreneurs through referral networking. Additionally, the upcoming BNI US & Canada National Conference, taking place April 2-4, 2025, at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center, will provide an opportunity for business leaders and entrepreneurs to connect, gain insights, and celebrate the growth of BNI’s global network.

Take the Next Step Now is the time to seize this opportunity. Discover how BNI franchise ownership can help you grow a thriving business while transforming your community. Contact the BNI Franchise Development Team at franchise@bni.com or visit our website at www.bnifranchise.com today.

1. This information is based on historical BNI Member self-reported data as of March 4, 2025, and represents collective results from BNI Members worldwide over the last 12 months. Errors in the self-reporting of data or in subsequent analysis are possible. Therefore, the information herein should only be viewed as representative in nature.

About BNI®
BNI (Business Network International) is the world’s largest and most successful business networking organization. Today, BNI has over 335,000+ Member-businesses participating in over 11,200+ BNI Chapters that meet in-person, online, or in a hybrid format each week in 76 countries around the globe. Since inception in 1985, BNI has proudly helped 2.2 million businesses garner over $215 billion USD in revenue2. To learn more about BNI and how you can visit a Chapter, go to www.bni.com.

2. The information is based on BNI Member self-reported data as of December 24, 2024, and represents the collective results from BNI Members worldwide since its inception January 8, 1985. Errors in the self-reporting data or in subsequent analysis are possible. Therefore, the information herein should only be viewed as a representative nature.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bni-reopens-us-franchise-opportunities-fueling-small-business-growth-302412422.html

SOURCE BNI

Related Topics:
Continue Reading

Technology

STEPHEN A. SMITH ADDRESSES WHITE HOUSE DINNER ATTENDANCE, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO HBCUs AND PROTECTING CORPORATE INVESTMENT IN BLACK EDUCATION

Published

32 minutes ago

on

October 24, 2026

By

NEW YORK, Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Stephen A. Smith, media mogul, New York Times bestselling author, and proud 1991 graduate of Winston-Salem State University, is addressing the public discussion surrounding his decision to attend a White House dinner with President Donald Trump, emphasizing his commitment to the long-term financial stability of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

For Smith, the decision was rooted in a commitment to institutions that have educated generations of Black leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and public servants.

“I will always advocate for HBCUs and the students whose futures depend on them,” Smith said. “My reason for attending the White House dinner was to discuss the challenges these institutions face in securing long-term funding and to make the case that corporate America must continue to invest in them.”

Smith acknowledged federal support through the FUTURE Act while expressing concern that political tensions surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) could discourage private companies from supporting HBCUs. He maintains that these institutions deserve sustained corporate partnerships, philanthropic contributions, and public investment.

“If we truly believe in free-market capitalism, businesses should be able to support educational institutions and charitable causes without fear of criticism or repercussions,” Smith said. “HBCUs have made extraordinary contributions to this country. They deserve sustained public and private investment.”

Ashley Christopher, Esq., Founder and CEO of the HBCU Week Foundation, recognized Smith’s advocacy and decision to engage with the administration.

“Stephen A. Smith has been a powerful advocate for HBCUs, using his platform and influence to shine a national spotlight on our institutions,” expressed Christopher, “His continued support of HBCU Week helps advance our mission of connecting students with life-changing educational opportunities, and we are proud to have him as our ambassador.”

Since Smith became an HBCU Week Ambassador in 2019, the initiative has facilitated more than 15,000 on-the-spot college acceptances and raised and awarded more than $150 million in scholarships, according to the HBCU Week Foundation.

As public discussion continues, Smith is emphasizing the importance of ensuring HBCUs have the resources and partnerships needed to educate future generations and expand opportunities for students.

CLICK HERE to watch Smith’s full response to his White House visit.

MEDIA CONTACT:

media@mrsasinc.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/stephen-a-smith-addresses-white-house-dinner-attendance-reaffirms-commitment-to-hbcus-and-protecting-corporate-investment-in-black-education-302918547.html

SOURCE Straight Shooter Media

Continue Reading

Technology

Advantex Announces Completion of Financing and Extension of Maturity Date of Previously Issued Debentures

Published

32 minutes ago

on

October 24, 2026

By

TORONTO, Oct. 23, 2026 /CNW/ — Advantex Marketing International Inc. (CSE: ADX) (“Advantex”), a leader in the merchant cash advance and loyalty marketing products for merchants, today announced the completion of a $250,000 secured debt financing. Advantex issued a $250,000 non-convertible debenture which bears an interest rate at 12% per annum and matures December 15, 2027. The proceeds raised from this issuance of the Debenture will be used for working capital purposes.

Advantex has also extended the maturity of its existing $700,000 in 12% secured debentures from October 10, 2026 to December 15, 2027.

About Advantex Marketing International Inc.

Advantex provides working capital to merchants. Advantex also provides specialized marketing programs that enable members of Aeroplan to earn Aeroplan points at participating merchants.

Advantex shares trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol ADX. For more information go to Advantex’s profile on www.sedar.com

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the future business and operations of Advantex. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The business and operations of Advantex described herein is dependent on a number of factors and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ material include, but are not limited to, changes in Advantex’s economic and competitive conditions including but not limited to the industry sectors in which Advantex operates.

The statements in this news release are made of the date of this release. Forward-looking statements are made based on management’s beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date the statements are made and Advantex undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable law.

SOURCE Advantex Marketing International Inc.

Continue Reading

Technology

Club Offers for Travel Enthusiasts in Canada

Published

2 hours ago

on

October 23, 2026

By

TORONTO, Oct 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO), the club for travel enthusiasts, announces three of many new Club Offers for Club Members in Canada.

Rigorously vetted and negotiated for us travel enthusiasts:

$799—COSTA RICA WEEK WITH FLIGHTS & CAR
We think fall is an ideal time to visit Costa Rica; the scenery is lush and the crowds are gone. Drive between volcanic Arenal and the idyllic beaches of Tamarindo on this seven-night trip. Since it’s not as busy, we were able to negotiate a price that saves members up to $648 on departures through mid-December.

$899—BARCELONA: 5 NIGHTS WITH FLIGHTS
Explore Barcelona’s world-class museums and architectural masterpieces in the quieter winter months to pack more into your trip. You won’t waste hours in lines and can access top restaurants that are fully booked in summer. We save $300 on travel this January and February, when temperatures are still spring-like. Roundtrip flights from Toronto, hotel and daily breakfast are included.

$999—ST. KITTS GETAWAY FOR 2, REG. $2083
Most visitors to St. Kitts book months in advance, but when we pointed out that travel enthusiasts are more spontaneous, this resort gave us a terrific rate for stays this November and December. Spend four nights in Frigate Bay and get an upgraded Oceanview room, too.

Are you a travel enthusiast? Join the club today: https://travelzoo.com

Who are we?
We, Travelzoo®, are the club for travel enthusiasts. We reach 30 million travellers. Club Members receive Club Offers negotiated and rigorously vetted by our deal experts around the globe. Our relationships with thousands of top travel companies give us access to irresistible deals. Our club and its benefits are built around the lifestyle of a modern travel enthusiast.

Media Contact: 
Amanda Ieraci – Toronto
+1 437 866 8540
aieraci@travelzoo.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/club-offers-for-travel-enthusiasts-in-canada-302918543.html

SOURCE Travelzoo

Continue Reading

Trending