That same belief drives how we view the future of franchising. The strength of our industry depends on the next generation of leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. That’s why UFG Cares is committed to creating pathways for students and young professionals to learn, grow, and thrive.
The Titus Center for Franchising at Palm Beach Atlantic University
Our story in education began with J.J. Prendamano. J.J. had a passion for helping young people and began volunteering at Palm Beach Atlantic University (located in downtown West Palm Beach) in the early 2010s. What started as mentoring business students soon grew into teaching evening courses on leadership, and eventually, J.J. launched J.J.’s Entrepreneurship Challenge, a “Shark Tank”—style competition where students pitched business ideas for $10,000 in funding and UFG mentorship.
J.J. believed deeply in “educating the next franchise generation.” Inspired by his dedication and in his honor, Ray Titus and UFG donated $1.5 million in 2016 to establish the Titus Center for Franchising at Palm Beach Atlantic University—the first university business center in the U.S. dedicated solely to teaching franchising.
A ribbon-cutting event celebrating franchise opportunities and business growth with United Franchise Group.
Since its inception, more than 100 students have completed the program, with over 60% entering the franchising industry after graduation—some even becoming franchise owners themselves. That legacy of entrepreneurship education continues to expand nationwide with the opening of the Titus/UFG Innovation Lab at Samford University’s Brock School of Business in October 2025, a new space designed to empower student entrepreneurs through hands-on learning, collaboration, and real-world business experience.
Celebratory ribbon-cutting event for United Franchise Group, showcasing business leadership and franchise development.
Local Partnerships in Palm Beach County
Even closer to home, UFG Cares partners with the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County and the Palm Beach County School District, the 10th largest school district in the nation.
Education in Palm Beach County spans a wide spectrum—serving both communities of great wealth and communities of great need. By engaging with local schools, UFG helps bridge gaps, provide encouragement, and spark new possibilities.
Through efforts like the Red Apple Supply Store, our employees volunteer their time and resources to provide essential classroom supplies to teachers and students. We’ve also welcomed local students to our headquarters for a day of “Franchising 101.” For many, it’s their first introduction to franchising—and for some, it plants the seed of a future career.
The UFG Internship Program
In 2017, UFG formalized its commitment to education with the launch of the UFG Internship Program. Led today by Jen Gonzalez, the UFG Internship program offers students an inside look at what it means to be part of a global franchising company.
Interns don’t just observe—they contribute to real projects alongside corporate teams. Over 75 students have gone through UFG’s Internship Program from universities such as Florida State, Lynn University, Florida Atlantic, Palm Beach Atlantic, and Florida International. Many interns go on to full-time positions at UFG, and their testimonials show just how impactful the experience can be:
Monse Zaragoza, now Marketing Coordinator with Signarama: “I had the most wonderful and amazing time here. I cannot thank you enough for everything I have learned and experienced—it was incredibly valuable!”
Anuksha Machan, now Technical Support with Transworld Business Advisors: “Everything was perfect! I’m happy to be here and learn. I’m also grateful to UFG for giving me this opportunity.”
Bronwyn Rowsell, now Employee Development Coordinator, began as a student at The Titus Center. She came to UFG as an intern and has worked in a variety of roles, including supporting Sales in Australia.“The people and the future growth opportunities were what made me want to stay. My advice to other interns is simple: always say yes to every opportunity.”
Reed Miller, now Regional Manager, also began as a Titus Center student intern. During his internship, he even helped at a tradeshow where a lead turned into a franchisee—an empowering experience that showed him how rewarding the work could be: “Ask for more opportunities and work hard, and doors will open.”
Daniel Garbarsky, now Brand Development Manager at Graze Craze, started as a Franchise Development intern. He saw UFG as a place where growth opportunities were everywhere and utilized his education at the Titus Center to propel him forward: “Make your intention known, but truly show an interest. Learn as much as you can about the department you’re working in, but also explore other areas of the company.”
A group of young professionals participating in the United Franchise Group internship program for franchise development and business growth.
These stories prove that internships at UFG are more than stepping stones—they’re launchpads to meaningful careers in franchising.
When we invest in education, we’re not only helping individual students—we’re ensuring the long-term health of franchising itself. By mentoring, teaching, and opening doors, we’re building the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of our industry.
At UFG, this is what UFG Cares is all about: encouraging, educating, and empowering others to improve our world.