For Rick Khan, business ownership didn’t require quitting his career overnight — it required a plan, persistence, and the right partner.
After 30 years in banking and SBA lending, Rick discovered that franchise consulting wasn’t just a side project; it was a strategic path toward full-time freedom.
Now, as the owner of Alpha Franchise Consulting and an affiliate of Business Alliance Inc. (BAI), Rick is proving that you can build a business on the side — without sacrificing quality, family time, or financial stability.
From Bank Teller to SBA Lender — and Beyond
Rick’s career began in the heart of New York City as a bank teller. Over time, he moved into leadership roles, managing teams of 25 people and navigating multiple corporate mergers. Eventually, he found his niche in SBA lending, helping entrepreneurs secure the capital they needed to start and scale their businesses.
“I always had the desire to help others,” Rick explained. “Working with small-business loans showed me how rewarding it was to see people build something of their own.”
That passion set the stage for what came next.
Discovering Franchise Consulting Through a Simple Conversation
While expanding his SBA network, Rick reached out to another BAI consultant, Luke Frey — initially just to build a referral partnership.
But during their call, Luke shared how franchise consulting worked and how well it aligned with Rick’s experience.
Within a month, Rick joined the BAI network.
“It just made sense,” he said. “I was already helping people fund their businesses. Why not help them find the right one too?”
Part-Time Effort, Full-Time Vision
Rick still works full-time as an SBA lender, but he’s steadily building his consulting business in the evenings and on weekends — with a goal of going full-time next year.
“You have to make time, not wait until you ‘have’ time,” he said. “I treat it like any other business — with structure, follow-up, and consistency.”
In the beginning, Rick experimented with high-volume portal leads, quickly learning that quantity doesn’t always equal quality.
Now, his focus is on more intentional marketing — building authentic connections through platforms like LinkedIn and targeted outreach.
The result? Fewer conversations, but far more meaningful ones.
Community and Support Make the Difference
Rick credits much of his early success to the training, tools, and personal support from the BAI corporate team.
“The support is second to none,” he shared. “They helped me set up my website, develop content, and learn the systems that make this business scalable.”
He also emphasizes the value of BAI’s network of consultants — a collaborative environment he describes as “a true family.”
From ongoing webinars to the annual BAI Conference, the community has provided him with both accountability and inspiration.
Lessons in Balance and Gratitude
Running two careers isn’t easy, but Rick says it’s deeply rewarding — not just financially, but personally.
“Owning a business makes you realize how valuable time really is,” he reflected. “You learn to spend it wisely — on your business, but also with your family.”
That balance is something he’s determined to protect as he transitions toward full-time consulting.
Rick’s Advice to Aspiring Consultants
For anyone considering the move into franchise consulting — especially those who want to start part-time — Rick’s message is simple:
“Go for it. Have a plan. Take a risk. Listen to others who’ve done it and ask questions. Don’t wait until fear disappears — it never fully does.”
His journey proves that success doesn’t require an instant leap — just consistent steps in the right direction.
Author Bio
This article is part of Business Alliance Inc.’s ongoing Brokerhood series, highlighting franchise consultants who are building purpose-driven businesses within the BAI network.
Rick Khan, owner of Alpha Franchise Consulting, combines decades of SBA lending experience with a passion for helping others achieve business ownership. Based in Florida, he assists clients nationwide in finding and funding the right franchise opportunities.
