ABOUT US
OUR STORY
Our franchising adventure began in 2008 when we were both in our mid-40s, with daughters in high school, ready for a new chapter in life. Originally, we set our sights on starting a fast-food franchise, combining our backgrounds in finance and customer service. But as life often does, it steered us in an unexpected—and perfect—direction.
A conversation with a franchise coach opened our eyes to opportunities we hadn’t even considered. By August of that same year, we launched a home-based business in the education sector—one that felt like a natural fit for us. It was a decision that changed the course of our lives, bringing us not just financial freedom, but a deeper sense of purpose.
As our daughters graduated from university, they joined the family business, breathing new energy into what we had built. Today, they proudly lead the company, allowing us to pursue a new mission: guiding others through their own franchise journeys.
With over seven years spent in franchise development, attending franchise shows, conferences, and expanding our expertise in the corporate franchise world, we realized it was time to give back. Our goal? To help aspiring entrepreneurs like you discover the freedom and fulfillment that comes with business ownership.
Diane Wilson
Diane’s career in customer service taught her the importance of building strong relationships and creating meaningful connections—skills that became the foundation of her success as a franchise owner. When she and Jim launched their first franchise in 2008, Diane thrived on the operational side of the business, turning challenges into opportunities and helping to establish their brand as a trusted name in the education sector. Over the years, Diane has become the whole package in the franchising world.
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She has worked as a franchisee, partnered with a franchisor as a development director for a leading education brand, and now serves as a franchise coach, helping aspiring entrepreneurs explore hundreds of brands to find the perfect fit for their dreams. Her experience on all sides of the franchise journey gives her a unique perspective and makes her an invaluable guide.
In her free time, Diane loves spending cherished moments with her daughters and her four granddaughters, who are the light of her life. She treasures the simple joys—curling up with a romcom, savoring her morning coffee, traveling with family, and relaxing on the pontoon boat.
Jim Wilson
Jim has always been an entrepreneur at heart, with a rich history of growing businesses across various industries. His journey into franchising began in 2008 when he and Diane launched their first franchise, turning their passion for education into a thriving home-based business. Over the years, Jim has worn many hats in the franchise world, working as a franchise owner, a franchise developer for a leading education brand, and now as a franchise coach.
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Jim considers himself a “research specialist,” fueled by his love of exploring new franchise brands and concepts. His true passion lies in helping others who, like him nearly 20 years ago, are searching for their next exciting adventure in business ownership. Having worked with a franchise coach himself back then, Jim deeply values the role of a trusted guide who supports and empowers clients throughout their journey. It’s this firsthand experience that drives his commitment to helping others achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.
Outside of work, Jim loves spending time with his family and proudly holds the title of his granddaughters’ biggest fan! When he’s not cheering them on, you can find him relaxing on the water on his pontoon boat, exploring new destinations with his family, or savoring a good glass of red wine.
At Edgewater Franchise Consulting, we combine our hands-on experience and deep industry knowledge to offer personalized guidance, helping you find the franchise that aligns with your life and your dreams. We’re passionate about making this process simple, stress-free, and—most importantly—successful for you.
We can’t wait to start this journey with you!
oUR mISSION
At Edgewater Franchise Consulting, we help aspiring franchisees turn franchise ownership into a reality. Drawing on real-world experience and personalized guidance, we empower you to confidently navigate the franchise landscape—building a business and a life that aligns with your goals, values, and dreams.
oUR vISION
Our vision is to empower our clients to unlock their potential through franchise ownership, creating businesses that provide financial security, personal fulfillment, and the freedom to shape their future. We aim to redefine franchise consulting by focusing on connection, clarity, and long-term success—guiding franchisees toward a future of confidence and opportunity.