Uncle Sharkii Franchising FAQs
Steps to Ownership
Q: What are the steps to owning an Uncle Sharkii franchise?
A: We make franchise ownership simple with our 6-step process:
Submit your initial inquiry
Join an introductory call
Review our Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)
Attend Discovery Day in Houston, TX
Sign your franchise agreement
Launch your store with full support for your Grand Opening
Q: How long does the franchise process take from inquiry to opening?
A: Most franchisees open within 4–8 months after signing, depending on lease negotiations, build-out, and local permitting.
Q: What happens during Discovery Day?
A: You’ll meet the executive team, tour a live store, and experience the culture and systems that make Uncle Sharkii unique. It’s a chance to ensure a mutual fit before moving forward.
Q: When do I receive the FDD and what should I expect?
A: You’ll receive our Franchise Disclosure Document after your introductory call. It outlines all financial, legal, and operational info you’ll need to make an informed decision.
Ideal Candidates
Q: Who is the ideal Uncle Sharkii franchisee?
A: We’re looking for individuals who are passionate about our brand and committed to delivering exceptional customer service. You don’t need restaurant experience—just a willingness to learn, a self-starter mindset, a can-do attitude, and the ability to lead a team. We provide the rest through Sharkii Academy, hands-on support, and ongoing guidance.
Q: Can I franchise with Uncle Sharkii if I don’t have restaurant or business experience?
A: Absolutely. In fact, many of our franchisees had no prior restaurant experience. Our in-house franchisee support team provides comprehensive training and tools to ensure your success, even if you’re brand new to entrepreneurship.
Q: Is Uncle Sharkii a good fit for women entrepreneurs?
A: Yes! Uncle Sharkii was founded by Fen Reyes, a female entrepreneur and working mother, and our model is designed with flexibility in mind. We support women in business with a system that enables work-life balance, operational flexibility, and strong leadership development—making us one of the best franchise opportunities for women.
Q: Are there special incentives for veterans or first responders?
A: Yes. We proudly offer exclusive franchise fee discounts for veterans, first responders, and essential workers as a thank-you for your service and dedication. Uncle Sharkii believes in giving back and providing meaningful business opportunities for those who have served.
Q: Is this opportunity suitable for younger or first-time entrepreneurs?
A: Definitely. Uncle Sharkii’s founders started as young entrepreneurs themselves. Our simplified systems, low startup costs, and high-touch support make this a great choice for ambitious individuals looking to launch their first business. Age is no barrier—if you’ve got the Sharkii spirit, we’ve got your back.
Q: Does Uncle Sharkii support diversity and inclusion among its franchisees?
A: 100%. Uncle Sharkii is a minority-founded and led company that proudly embraces entrepreneurs from all walks of life. Our franchise community is made up of diverse individuals from various backgrounds, ethnicities, and experiences. We believe in creating an inclusive, empowering, and opportunity-driven culture.
Franchisee Support
Q: What kind of training do franchisees receive?
A: Every Uncle Sharkii franchisee goes through Sharkii Academy, our comprehensive training program designed to equip you with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to run a successful poke bowl franchise. You’ll learn everything from operations and food safety to guest service and leadership.
But it doesn’t stop there—we also provide five days of on-site training and support at your first store location during opening week. You’ll receive hands-on coaching from our expert team to ensure a strong, confident launch.
Q: What is Sharkii Academy?
A: Sharkii Academy is Uncle Sharkii’s official training program for new franchisees. It includes classroom-style sessions, operational role-play, and systems training—all developed to prepare you to operate your store with clarity and confidence. It’s required for all new owners and serves as the foundation of our support model.
Q: Do Master Franchisees get additional support?
A: Yes. For Master Franchisees, we provide an extra 7 days of on-site support at the first store launched within their territory. Our executive and operations teams assist with pre-opening, staff readiness, and launch execution to ensure success across larger expansion territories.
Q: What ongoing support does Uncle Sharkii provide?
A: We don’t just train you and walk away. As part of the Uncle Sharkii Ohana, you’ll have ongoing access to our franchise support team, operational updates, and vendor networks. We offer:
Ongoing coaching calls
System updates and process improvements
Marketing and seasonal campaign support
Operational check-ins and troubleshooting assistance
Access to proprietary tools and dashboards
We think of ourselves as your business wingmen—always there to keep the gears running smoothly and your franchise thriving.
Q: Is Uncle Sharkii a good fit for first-time franchisees?
A: Absolutely. Many of our owners are first-time restaurant franchisees. Our systems are intentionally designed to be simple, scalable, and supportive, so you never feel like you're figuring it out alone.
Investment & Financials
Q: What is the initial franchise fee to open an Uncle Sharkii location?
A: The one-time initial franchise fee is $38,500, which grants you the right to open and operate under the Uncle Sharkii brand in an exclusive territory.
Q: What is the total estimated initial investment?
A: According to Item 7 of our 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), the estimated total investment ranges from $95,000 to $303,500. This includes build-out, equipment, signage, inventory, and more.
Q: What financial qualifications do I need to get started?
A: We require franchise candidates to have at least $100,000 in liquid capital. This ensures you're financially prepared to handle startup costs and early operating expenses confidently.
Q: What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
A: Franchisees pay a 6% royalty fee and a 1% brand advertising fee, both based on gross sales. These fees support national marketing campaigns, continuous brand development, and franchise system support.
Q: What costs are involved in build-out and equipment?
A: Build-out costs can range from $10,000 to $120,000, depending on the site type (kiosk, inline, or QSR). Equipment, TVs, and supplies generally cost between $18,500 and $30,000.
Q: How much should I budget for opening inventory?
A: Opening inventory typically ranges from $6,000 to $10,000, covering initial food and supply needs.
Location Types & Flexibility
Q: What type of real estate locations does Uncle Sharkii support?
A: Uncle Sharkii is designed for flexibility. We support multiple formats including:
Mall inline locations
Food kiosks
Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) storefronts
This range allows you to open in malls, airports, travel centers, military bases, universities, suburban shopping plazas, and more.
Q: Can Uncle Sharkii work in smaller towns and suburban markets?
A: Yes! Unlike many big brands, we thrive in suburban towns and mid-size cities. Our streamlined operations and small footprint make us ideal for areas that are underserved by other fast-casual concepts.
Q: What is the footprint of a typical Uncle Sharkii location?
A: Our concepts are designed for ultra-small footprints, helping reduce overhead and maximize efficiency. Sizes may vary by format (e.g., kiosk vs. inline store), but all are optimized for speed, service, and flexibility.
Q: Why is Uncle Sharkii a good fit for first-time business owners?
A: Our simplified systems, compact build-outs, and comprehensive support make us a turnkey franchise model perfect for first-time entrepreneurs looking for a scalable and community-driven brand.