Project LeanNation Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs
Established in 2012 by Tim Dougherty in Rochester, New York, Project LeanNation (PLN) started as a small initiative aimed at helping friends pursue healthier lifestyles with convenient, nutritious meals. Over time, this personal mission grew into a full-scale wellness brand, and by 2019, PLN launched its franchising program.
Now based in Brighton, New York, the brand has expanded to more than 28 locations across the United States. Project LeanNation operates on a subscription-based model, delivering ready-to-eat meals that are crafted and approved by registered dietitians.
These meals support a range of health goals and are ideal for individuals focused on weight management, maintaining active lifestyles, or simply saving time without sacrificing nutrition.
What truly differentiates Project LeanNation is its integrated approach to health. Unlike many digital-only meal prep companies, PLN combines its online offerings with physical locations where customers can receive support, connect with coaches, and engage with a community of peers committed to personal wellness.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Project LeanNation franchise? It costs on average between $238,000 – $354,000 to start a Project LeanNation franchised facility.
This includes expenses related to site build-out, equipment purchases, initial inventory, and early-stage operating costs. The total investment required can vary based on several elements, such as the specific layout and size of the Project LeanNation location, regional real estate costs, and whether the franchisee opts to lease or buy the facility.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $60,000 |
| Real Estate Rent – 1st Month | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Security Deposits | $0 – $5,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Real Estate Project Management Fee | $10,000 |
| Construction Project Management Fee | $0 – $10,000 |
| Furnishings, Fixtures, and Decorating | $4,000 – $6,000 |
| Signage | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Training | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Equipment and Supplies Acquired Locally | $47,000 – $67,000 |
| Computer System/POS | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Initial Inventory and Materials | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Inventory of Products for Resale | $6,000 – $8,000 |
| SBA Fees and Other Financing Costs | $0 – $10,000 |
| Additional Operating Funds – 3 Months | $25,000 |
| Professional Fees | $4,000 – $10,000 |
| Pre-Opening Marketing | $15,000 |
| Business Licenses | $500 – $1,000 |
| Insurance | $3,000 – $4,000 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment | $237,500 – $354,000 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Project LeanNation franchise? A Project LeanNation franchised restaurant makes on average $614,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
Project LeanNation Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
What funding options are available for a Project LeanNation franchise?
Most franchise buyers in Project LeanNation’s investment range finance their unit through an SBA 7(a) loan, with some multi-unit operators using SBA 504 loans for real estate. Buyers with rollable retirement funds sometimes use a ROBS structure to reduce debt service. See SharpSheets’ financial model hub for funding guidance.
How long does it take to pay back a Project LeanNation franchise investment?
Payback periods for franchises in Project LeanNation’s category typically run 3-7 years, depending on investment level, location performance, and financing structure. Actual payback varies significantly by unit performance and debt service obligations.
Who owns Project LeanNation?
Project LeanNation franchise is owned by Tim Dougherty, who founded the company in 2012.
SharpSheets Editorial Team | sharpsheets.io | Last Updated: June 2026
Disclaimer
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Research Project Leannation franchise data: For the full FDD cost breakdown, investment tables, and Item 19 disclosures, visit FranchisePayback.com → Project Leannation FDD Review.
