What is the estimated cost to obtain a business computer and the required IT services for a Focus Cfo franchise?
Focus_Cfo Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
approved vendors and/or the amount of such IT Services Fee.
Currently, we estimate the cost to obtain a business computer, any related hardware or software and the required package of IT services to be $2,500 to $5,000.
We may modify any hardware and software requirements as well as any required IT services package by providing you 30 days prior notice. If your business computer does meet minimum specifications, we will require you to purchase, lease and/or license new or modified computer hardware and/or software. We estimate the annual costs of maintaining, updating or upgrading support to your required b
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 17–23)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Focus Cfo's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the estimated cost to obtain a business computer, any related hardware or software, and the required package of IT services ranges from $2,500 to $5,000. This initial investment covers the necessary technology and IT support to begin operating the franchise. Franchisees are required to purchase a package of IT services selected by Focus CFO from their approved IT vendor, currently C-Forward.
The IT services package includes an Office 365 license, providing access to Focus CFO email, Microsoft Office software (Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint), the Microsoft Teams video conferencing platform, and Microsoft OneDrive file hosting and backup service. The package also includes security monitoring of the franchisee's business computer and IT support services. Focus CFO initially covers the IT Services Fee, which is later deducted from the franchisee's compensation at $30 per pay period once the franchisee begins earning compensation.
Focus Cfo may modify the required IT services, approved vendors, and the IT Services Fee, providing 30 days' notice. Franchisees must ensure their business computer meets the minimum specifications determined by Focus CFO's IT provider. If the existing computer does not meet these specifications, the franchisee will be required to purchase, lease, or license new or modified hardware and/or software. The annual costs of maintaining, updating, or upgrading support for the required business computer system and software are estimated to be $1,500 to $3,000.
The IT vendor will install an agent on the franchisee's computer to monitor for malware and viruses, with the right to access non-password protected files to provide IT support and security monitoring services, typically requesting permission before access. Focus CFO itself does not have independent access to information generated or stored on the franchisee's business computer. Franchisees are required to have a business computer for business purposes, but Focus CFO does not mandate a specific laptop, computer, other hardware, or internet provider, although high-speed internet access is strongly recommended.