FranchisingWorks is an innovative programme to reduce unemployment by helping the unemployed, unsustainably employed and those in career transition create new businesses and jobs through franchising. It has also developed a unique support programme to support successful candidates with insufficient financial resources of their own. Led by franchise specialists, FranchisingWorks provides advice, information and practical support about getting into franchising through workshops and one-to-one sessions. We also provide introductions to suitable franchisors. FranchisingWorks provides additional financial support to buy licences from approved franchise systems for successful candidates who are unable to meet the full cost themselves. To date, the programme has been supported by Keyfund, ERDF, RBS, NESTA, AGMA, The Commission for the New Economy and The Shaftesbury Partnership, FranchisingWorks is currently delivering in the North West. From here we aim to expand FranchisingWorks nationwide to create thousands of new franchise businesses, providing employment and work experience to many tens of thousands of people. More information is available on the FranchisingWorks website www.franchisingworks.org