Key Takeaways: 

• Pizza franchises are one of the most bank-friendly business models going into 2026.
• SBA loans allow you to finance most of the project cost with low down payments and long repayment terms.
• Antioch Pizza Shop offers four flexible franchise formats, making financing easier and more accessible for first-time and multi-unit operators.
• Multi-unit deals often receive better loan terms, lower risk ratings, and stronger approval odds.
• Financing options include SBA loans, HELOCs, ROBS, equipment financing, and franchise lenders.
• Antioch has open territories in high-growth states, giving franchisees a chance to secure premium markets before expansion accelerates.
• Smart financial planning—working capital, format choice, and territory selection—is key to long-term success.

Thinking about how to finance your pizza franchise? You’re not alone — it’s one of the most common questions future franchise owners ask when they start exploring ownership. The good news: financing a pizza franchise is more achievable than most people realize, especially when you’re pairing the right funding strategy with the right brand.

In 2026, few categories are as stable and profitable as pizza. Let’s break down everything you need to know to finance your dream of franchise ownership the smart way.

Why is pizza one of the easiest franchise categories to finance?

Pizza is one of the most recession-resistant food categories — and lenders know it.

Here’s why financing a pizza franchise is easier than most restaurant types:

• Pizza has consistent weekly demand
• Takeout and delivery dominate the category
• Pizza has lower food costs and provides the opportunity for excellent margins
• It requires fewer employees than full-service dining
• Consumers buy pizza regularly, even in down economies

With Antioch Pizza Shop, lenders also see a brand with:

• Authentic recipes
• Strong Midwest heritage
• Simplified operations
• Multiple format options
• Manageable startup costs

How much does it cost to finance a pizza franchise?

Your total investment depends on the franchise format you choose. Antioch Pizza Shop offers four different models — each designed to meet different market environments and investment levels:

• Full-Service Restaurant – ideal for sit-down dining and strong family-oriented markets
• Takeout & Delivery Only – streamlined model with low overhead and high off-premise volume
• Express Restaurant – compact hybrid format with limited menu, lower buildout costs, and faster opening timeline
• Food Truck – flexible, mobile option that brings Antioch Pizza to high-traffic events and local neighborhoods

Each format can be financed. Your startup cost includes:

• Franchise fee
• Build-out & construction
• Equipment package
• Signage & interior branding
• Technology + POS
• Initial inventory
• Grand opening marketing
• Working capital reserve

Compared to many national pizza franchises, Antioch offers lower and more accessible startup costs—making financing simpler and faster.

What financing options are available for Antioch Pizza Shop franchisees?

You have more financing options than you probably think. Most owners use a blend of two or three funding sources.

1. SBA loans (the most common franchise financing option)

SBA 7(a) loans are the #1 financing choice for franchise buyers.

They offer:

• Low down payments (typically 10–25%)
• Long repayment terms (up to 10 years)
• Government-backed security for lenders
• Financing for build-out, equipment, and working capital

Why lenders say yes to Antioch Pizza Shop:

• Proven business model
• Strong brand identity
• Simple operations
• Strong margins
• Evergreen demand for pizza

SBA loans make franchise ownership more accessible for new and experienced operators.

2. HELOC (home equity line of credit)

HELOCs are popular with first-time franchise owners because they offer:

• Low interest rates
• No business collateral required
• Flexible repayment options
• Ability to cover SBA down payment

Many franchisees pair a HELOC with an SBA loan.

3. ROBS (retirement rollover financing)

ROBS allows you to use your retirement account — tax-free and penalty-free — to fund your franchise.

Ideal for people who want to:

• Avoid new debt
• Transition out of a corporate role
• Invest retirement funds into ownership

This is a very common franchise funding approach.

4. Equipment financing

Equipment lenders allow you to finance big-ticket items rather than paying upfront.

Benefits include:

• Lower upfront costs
• Longer amortization periods
• More cash available for build-out and marketing

Great for Express and Full-Service models.

5. Franchise lending companies

Some lenders specialize exclusively in franchise financing. These lenders understand:

• Franchise performance models
• Territory potential
• Ramp-up timelines
• Industry averages

They approve quickly and often with flexible terms.

6. Multi-unit financing (the fastest path to scale)

Multi-unit franchisees typically receive stronger approval odds, higher loan amounts, and better terms because lenders know they produce stronger cash flow.

Why multi-unit buyers get better financing:

• Lower risk profile
• Multiple revenue streams
• Faster path to profitability
• Easier staffing and training systems
• Stronger territory control

Antioch’s four formats make multi-unit development easy:

• Start with an Express
• Add a Full-Service
• Boost awareness with a Mobile unit

How do you choose the right financing option?

Here’s a simple decision guide:

Most franchisees use a combination.

How do you build a smart investment plan?

Successful owners think ahead:

• Budget 3–6 months of working capital
• Choose the format that matches your risk level
• Use equipment financing strategically
• Plan for multi-unit expansion early
• Target the strongest growth territories

Antioch is expanding into high-growth states including:

• Texas, Florida, Tennessee, Arizona, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Indiana, Nevada, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, and more.

Why Antioch Pizza Shop is a strong franchise investment

Antioch stands out because it offers:

• Lower startup costs than many major pizza chains
• Four flexible formats
• Opportunity for strong unit economics
• Authentic, handcrafted Midwest flavor profile
• Community-focused brand identity
• Comprehensive training and support
• High consumer demand across multiple states

This is a franchise built for accessibility and long-term success.

FAQ 

1. Can I finance most of the cost of an Antioch Pizza Shop franchise?

Yes. Most buyers finance the majority of the investment using SBA loans, franchise lenders, or retirement rollovers.

2. How much money do I need upfront?

Typically 10–25% of the total project cost, depending on financing type and franchise format.

3. Can I finance multiple Antioch Pizza Shop locations?

Yes. Multi-unit operators can receive stronger approvals and better terms.

4. What if I don’t have restaurant experience?

Antioch Pizza Shop provides full training — many franchisees are first-time owners.

5. Do all Antioch formats qualify for financing?

Yes. Full-Service, Takeout & Delivery, Express, and Food Truck models can all be financed.