BNI Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Business Network International (BNI) is a global organization focused on business networking and referral generation. Founded in 2014 by Dr. Ivan Misner in the United States, the company is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. Over time, BNI has grown into the world’s largest referral-marketing network, with more than 340,000 members operating across 11,300 chapters in over 75 countries.
The company began franchising internationally in 2019, expanding its presence across the Asia-Pacific region, the Middle East, and Latin America. BNI hosts weekly chapter meetings that follow a structured agenda, allowing one professional per business category to participate.
These meetings emphasize referral sharing, trust building, and mutual business development. Members also have access to business education programs, leadership opportunities, and digital tools such as BNI Connect, designed to help them strengthen their networks and generate consistent referrals.
What makes BNI distinctive is its exclusive membership structure and the core philosophy of “Givers Gain.” Each chapter limits participation to a single representative per profession, which reduces internal competition and promotes higher-quality referrals among members.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a BNI franchise? It costs on average between $53,000 – $273,000 to start a BNI franchised center.
This includes expenses related to training, technology setup, office space, marketing materials, and initial operating costs. The total investment varies based on factors such as the size of the territory, regional market conditions, and whether the franchisee operates from a home office or leases a commercial location.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $35,000 – $147,500 |
| Orientation and Travel Expenses | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Training Fees | $3,600 – $5,400 |
| Supplies, Equipment and Software | $7,200 – $8,400 |
| Video Conferencing License | $95 – $4,845 |
| Professional Fees | $2,000 – $10,000 |
| Computer System | $500 – $1,500 |
| Advertising Expenses | $500 – $1,000 |
| Deposits | $500 – $1,000 |
| Insurance | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Membership Valuation Fee | $0 – $79,500 |
| Total | $53,395 – $273,145 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a BNI franchise? A BNI franchised business makes on average $262,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many BNI locations are there?
As of the latest data, Business Network International (BNI) operates approximately 187 locations in the United States.
What is the total investment required to open a BNI franchise?
The total investment required to open a BNI franchise ranges from $53,000 to $273,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a BNI franchise?
BNI franchisees pay an ongoing royalty fee equal to 20% of their gross revenue. In addition to royalties, franchisees contribute a marketing and advertising fee that typically ranges from 1% to 3% of gross revenue.
Who owns BNI?
The franchise is owned by BNI Global LLC, which operates as the parent organization overseeing all franchise activities worldwide.
Disclaimer
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