TORONTO — Choice Hotels International, Inc. has expanded its emerging markets franchise-development program with new development incentives for female owners.
“The growth of our emerging markets franchise-development program, directly around supporting female hotel ownership, is proof positive of our commitment to make small business ownership a reality for underrepresented entrepreneurs,” says John Lancaster, vice-president, Emerging Markets, Franchise Development and Owner Relationships, Choice Hotels.
Since the program began, the company has awarded and financially supported more than 270 franchise agreements with underrepresented minority and veteran entrepreneurs, including 24 deals awarded last year despite the pandemic.
The first female to sign on to the initiative is Sheryl Goldberg, owner and Chief Financial Officer, IGO Legacy Hotel Group.
“It’s an honour to be the first female to sign on to this initiative, and I hope to inspire other women to consider hotel ownership and investment,” says Goldberg.
Since the March launch this year, the company has granted five contracts to female entrepreneurs, including Cheryl Goldberg, Chetna Manoj, Ravina Mehta, Rachna Sachar and Dimple Patel.
