The Tariq Farid Franchise Institute at Babson College—made possible by Tariq Farid P’15, founder and CEO of Edible Brands—resides under the Arthur M. Blank School for Entrepreneurial Leadership at Babson College.
The institute creates cross-disciplinary programming that draws on Babson’s business and entrepreneurial expertise, combined with the experience and knowledge of franchising experts, to advance students’ understanding of franchising and the opportunities it can create.
“There are so many benefits of the institute, including the courses that will be offered for undergraduate and graduate students to certifications available to non-Babson students, whether it’s in person or online.” – Somia Farid Silber ’15
The Institute provides and is designing courses at the undergraduate, graduate, and certificate levels, delivered both in person and remotely, with a major focus on case studies. A world-class advisory council of Babson alumni and experts who have started, scaled, and invested in franchises provides guiding support to the Institute. A multidisciplinary faculty research program exists to understand and advance the importance of franchising to enhance our curriculum and identify new ways to innovate.
The Institute also partners with each of Babson’s existing Centers & Institutes to infuse franchising expertise into the curriculum and cocurricular programs, activities, and events. New internships and other opportunities with franchise brands help students practice and implement what they are learning in the classroom. Students develop an in-depth understanding of franchising as a system of distribution and business expansion, preparing them for future opportunities to build success through franchising.
