A Transition from Non-profit to Franchising
After spending years in the nonprofit sector serving families impacted by muscular dystrophy, heart disease, and arthritis, Laura Rolfe realized she wanted to continue changing lives – just in a different way. So she took a page from her parents and grandparents – who have run a family business since 1955 – and explored business ownership, something she believed would create independence, stability, and long-term opportunity.
“Franchising offered the perfect bridge: proven systems, strong community, and a lower-risk pathway to entrepreneurship,” Rolfe noted. “I launched Mint Franchise Consultants in 2020 to help aspiring entrepreneurs cut through the noise and find franchise opportunities aligned with their goals, values, and financial objectives.”
Rolfe said the transition into franchising felt like a natural evolution – still mission-driven, still people-focused – but with a direct pathway to helping families build long-term wealth and freedom.
“I love watching someone go from ‘I’m curious about business ownership’ to confidently signing an agreement and stepping into the role of owner,” she said. “It’s not just about selecting a brand – it’s about helping someone believe they can do this.”
Rolfe also values the long-term relationships that being a franchise consultant affords. She said she stays connected with clients long after they open and truly loves the collaboration between consultants, franchisors, lenders and attorneys.
“When it’s done right, it’s truly a win-win for everyone involved, especially the client.”
Rolfe has worked with hundreds of clients and franchise brands over the past six years and during that time she has helped aspiring entrepreneurs throughout the U.S., as well as international investors pursuing E-2 visas, to identify opportunities that align with their financial goals, lifestyle preferences, and long-term vision.
Rolfe said her process is structured, consultative, and personalized. A data-informed approach is what makes her tactics unique.
“I don’t ‘sell brands,’ she said. “I align people with franchise business models that fit their goals and lifestyle.”
She also leans heavily into education. She hosts a Powered by Franchising podcast, publishes newsletters regularly and participates in speaking engagements and one-on-one coaching.
“My goal is to elevate the entire decision-making process so candidates feel informed and confident,” she said.
Being part of FranServe, one of the largest franchise broker networks in the industry, allows her to collaborate with top consultants nationwide and access a wide portfolio of vetted franchise brands.
“Through ongoing training, conferences, and discovery events, I stay closely connected to emerging brands and industry trends,” she said. “That depth of knowledge ensures I can serve my clients with insight, perspective, and a broad range of options – all focused on finding the right fit.”
Her focus for the future is continued growth and impact.
“I’m excited that my daughter, Kate, recently joined Mint Franchise Consultants,” she said. “Watching her step into this industry and serve clients so naturally has been incredibly rewarding.”
Together with her daughter, she plans to continue growing the Powered by Franchising podcast, while leveraging AI tools to enhance the matching process, and expanding her reach nationally – all with the goal of helping more people step into confident, informed business ownership.
Jessica Petrucelli