Welcome!
Here, you'll find answers to the most common questions about owning a Discovery Map franchise. We're excited you're considering this opportunity – let's dive into the details!
Investing in a Discovery Map® franchise is exciting — yet it can be an overwhelming process.
This is an investment in your future, so we encourage you to take your time and find out the facts so you can make the best decision for yourself.
Explore the opportunity today!
Let's explore if a Discovery Map franchise is the right fit for you. Request more information to start the conversation.
What is a Discovery Map®?
Picture this: A vibrant hand-drawn map bursting with the best your area has to offer.
That's the magic of a Discovery Map®! It's a free guide for visitors and locals alike, found at popular spots like travel centers and businesses.
What makes it special?
Each map is a treasure trove of things to see and do – think attractions, restaurants, cozy inns, unique shops, and more. Every advertiser gets a spotlight, with a custom illustration of their building and an easy-to-find location on the map.
Our Story: Hand-Drawn Maps with Heart
Our story began in the heart of Vermont's Green Mountains over 35 years ago.
We started with a passion for creating beautifully hand-drawn maps that truly capture the spirit of a place. From our charming Waitsfield home nestled in the Mad River Valley, we've always cherished our New England heritage.
But we knew our maps held something special for communities across the country. That's why, in 1993, we launched our franchise model – giving dedicated individuals the opportunity to bring the Discovery Map® experience to their own favorite destinations.
Today, our network stretches far and wide. There are over 130 Discovery Map® locations across the U.S. (including Puerto Rico) and Canada, with more joining every year. We print nearly 18 million maps annually, helping countless travelers and locals connect with the places they love.
How Does the Franchise Work?
- Own your territory: You'll get exclusive rights to a specific area where you'll be the go-to source for our eye-catching, hand-drawn maps.
- Sell ads, watch profits grow: Your main focus is connecting with local businesses and selling advertising space on both our printed and digital maps.
- We handle the design: No design experience? No problem! Submit your ad info, and our team will create professional, custom ads for your clients using our easy-to-use software.
- Streamlined printing and flexible distribution: Choose from our approved printing vendors for quality results. Then, take charge of placing your maps in strategic locations throughout your territory – maximizing their impact on your community.
- Repeat and succeed: Keep your racks stocked, nurture your business relationships, and watch your Discovery Map business flourish year after year!
How do Franchisees Make Money?
As a Discovery Map franchise owner, your focus is simple: sell ads and distribute maps. That's how you generate profit! Here's the best part:
- Low overhead, high potential: You'll run your business right from home - no pricey office space, inventory to manage, or staff to hire. This keeps your costs down and your profit potential high.
- Focus on what you do best: Let your sales skills and community connections shine. We'll handle the map design, printing, and help you get those maps out to the public.
The Ideal Discovery Map® Franchisee
We're looking for the best of the best!
At Discovery Map®, we partner with exceptional individuals who share our passion for connecting people with communities. If you have these qualities, you might be the perfect fit:
- Community connector: You're a natural at building strong relationships and love being a valuable resource for local businesses.
- Driven and organized: You set your own goals, manage your time like a pro, and always hit those deadlines.
- Detail-oriented team player: You thrive within a system, but you're also able to spot the little things that make a big difference.
- Born to persuade: You love the thrill of the sale and helping others see the value you bring.
- Genuine and helpful: With your warm personality, your focus is always on making others succeed.
Ready to take the lead? If this sounds like you, and you have the resources to invest in your future, we want to hear from you! Let's explore what it means to be a Discovery Map® franchise owner.
What Training is Provided for New Franchisees?
Get the tools and support you need to thrive
We're committed to your success! That's why we offer a comprehensive training program designed to equip you with everything you need to launch your Discovery Map® business with confidence.
Our training covers it all:
- Map mastery: Learn the ins and outs of our unique maps and how to effectively share them with clients.
- Sales excellence: Develop the skills to connect with businesses and close deals.
- Smooth operations: We'll guide you through the day-to-day running of your business.
- Marketing magic: Get the strategies to effectively promote your map in your community.
Where does training happen? Get the best of both worlds! Learn from the experts at our beautiful Vermont headquarters, gain hands-on experience in your own territory, and benefit from convenient virtual training options.
But the support doesn't stop there! We're your ongoing partner, offering help with:
- Eye-catching designs: Collaborate with us on professional map layouts.
- Boosting your sales: Learn proven tactics to attract advertisers.
- Building your brand: Get ongoing business development resources.
What else should I consider before applying?
We're a team, built on trust and shared goals.
Our partnership with each franchisee is founded on respect and a deep understanding that we succeed together. This means treating you, your clients, and our own team with honesty and integrity at every step.
Your success is our success. We're invested in your growth! You need our support, and we need your drive and local expertise. Let's tackle challenges openly, work side-by-side, and hold each other accountable. That's the path to achieving our goals.
With Discovery Map®, the possibilities are endless. Let's build something amazing, together!
Franchisee Testimonials
Being a Discovery Map franchisee is the perfect mom job! Five years ago, when I started the map, my kids were 10 and 7 so I needed something with flexibility. Discovery Map was the perfect solution. It has allowed me time with my kids while working part time and seasonally. I have my summers off and most of my fall! Plus I bring in extra income for my family, which allows us to take several vacations a year, our favorite way to spend time together.
-Amy N.
Block Island & Providence, RI Maps
“We purchased an existing map in 2017 before launching a new territory in 2021. The DMI team has been amazing to work with – responsive, knowledgeable and incredibly supportive. We could not ask for better partners in this business.”
-Steve Paris
Chattanooga and Knoxville, TN Maps
“After selling our last business and moving full time to our new home, we started our two Discovery Maps as a way to integrate into our community and have a business with flexibility.
Since publishing our first two maps last fall, I can say that the plan was a huge success. The maps have been well received and getting to know other business owners has been very rewarding. The Discovery Map corporate office has been great to work with and we’re excited to see how our two new maps can grow over the next few years.”
-Kurt & Melissa Godwin,
Cape Coral & Fort Myers Maps
