The Back Nine Franchise — Veteran Cost & Requirements (2026)
Build a premium indoor golf destination where members can play world-class courses 24/7, take lessons from pros, and host corporate events. The Back Nine franchise operates on a high-margin membership model with multiple revenue streams in the booming indoor golf market. This isn't just another entertainment business, it's a sophisticated operation that combines cutting-edge simulator technology with community-focused service to create a destination golfers can't resist. The Back Nine franchise cost ranges from $276,050 to $603,550, making it accessible for serious investors looking to enter the rapidly growing indoor golf industry. With golf participation continuing to rise and weather-independent facilities becoming increasingly popular, The Back Nine franchise positions owners to capitalize on year-round demand while building a sustainable membership-based business.
Investment at a Glance
Military Fit Score
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What Is The Back Nine?
The Back Nine is a premier indoor golf simulator franchise offering a low-overhead, high-margin, membership-driven model with multiple revenue streams, 24/7 access, and turnkey systems designed for scalable growth in the booming indoor golf market.
You're running a modern golf facility that combines cutting-edge simulators with a membership-driven business model. Your core revenue comes from monthly memberships, giving clients 24/7 access to practice and play virtual rounds on famous courses. But that's just the foundation - you're also booking hourly sim rentals, hosting corporate events, scheduling lessons with golf pros, and building a community hub for local players. Day-to-day operations focus on maintaining pristine facilities, managing membership sales and retention, coordinating events, and ensuring your simulators are always dialed in. The business runs lean - most locations operate with 2-3 staff members handling check-ins and basic customer service. The automated access system means you're generating revenue even when the shop is unstaffed.
Quick Facts
Founded
2021
Franchising Since
2023
Total Locations
26
Headquarters
Utah
Location Type
Commercial Location
Semi-Absentee
No
SBA Approved
Yes
The Back Nine Franchise Cost Breakdown (2026)
The total investment to open a The Back Nine franchise starts at $276,050. Here's what that covers and what you'll need to qualify.
Investment Breakdown
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $50,000 | $50,000 |
| Travel expenses while training | $1,000 | $5,000 |
| Real Estate Improvements | $25,000 | $150,000 |
| Signage | $5,000 | $15,000 |
| Equipment | $156,050 | $251,000 |
| Miscellaneous Supplies | $3,000 | $3,000 |
| Initial Supply of Advertising Materials | $3,000 | $3,000 |
| Premises Deposit | $2,000 | $9,500 |
| Rent (3 months) | $6,000 | $28,500 |
| Internet/Utilities (3 months) | $1,800 | $2,500 |
| Furniture | $5,000 | $25,000 |
| Business Licenses and Permits | $200 | $1,000 |
| Insurance | $1,000 | $2,000 |
| Professional Fees | $0 | $5,000 |
| Security/Automation | $7,500 | $25,000 |
| Utility Deposits | $1,500 | $3,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 months | $8,000 | $25,000 |
Getting started requires $276,050 to $603,550 total investment. The franchise fee is $50,000, with major costs going to equipment ($156-251K) and location build-out ($25-150K). Monthly overhead stays manageable with an 8% royalty fee and $350 technology fee. There's currently no ad fund requirement, though that could increase up to 5% annually. The wide range in total investment mainly comes down to your location costs and how premium you want to go with your buildout. Some owners start lean with 3-4 simulator bays while others go big with 6+ bays and higher-end finishes. We'll map out exactly what makes sense for your market during consultation.
Beyond your initial investment, you'll pay a 8% royalty on gross sales plus a 0% of monthly Gross Revenues, will not exceed a 5% increase annually. marketing contribution. The true monthly cost of ownership includes additional fees most buyers don't account for until they're already in.
→ We break down your realistic monthly overhead during your consultation.
What Do The Back Nine Franchise Owners Make?
The Back Nine includes an Item 19 Financial Performance Representation in their Franchise Disclosure Document — which means they voluntarily share revenue and earnings data from their franchise system.
The Back Nine provides financial performance data in their disclosure documents from established locations. Revenue comes from membership subscriptions, hourly bay rentals, lessons, and events — multiple income streams that compound as your member base grows. The membership model creates predictable monthly recurring revenue, while hourly rentals and events provide additional upside during peak times. During your consultation, we will review the disclosed figures and connect you with current owners to discuss what mature locations look like operationally.
Not every franchise provides this level of transparency. The fact that The Back Nine does tells you something about their confidence in franchisee performance.
But raw numbers don't tell the full story. What matters is how those numbers apply to your market, your investment level, and your operating model.
Want the Full Financial Picture?
We've analyzed The Back Nine's FDD and can walk you through what the numbers actually mean for someone with your background and budget.
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Why Veterans Succeed with The Back Nine
This business rewards methodical operators who can build systems and maintain high standards day in and day out. The technical aspects of running simulators and managing facility operations require attention to detail and consistency, when members are paying premium rates, they expect everything to work flawlessly every time. But the real key is community building. Your facility becomes a hub for local players, from casual golfers to serious competitors. Success comes from creating an environment where people want to spend time, improve their game, and bring their friends. It's about service at its core, helping people achieve their goals while building something meaningful in your community.
Military Fit Analysis
Military Fit Score
Best Suited For
While The Back Nine franchise doesn't currently offer specific veteran discounts, veterans have several financing advantages when pursuing this opportunity: **SBA Loan Benefits:** - The Back Nine is approved for SBA financing, which can cover up to 90% of the total investment - SBA 7(a) loans offer competitive interest rates and longer repayment terms - Veterans may qualify for additional SBA programs with even better terms **Alternative Financing Options:** - ROBS Programs: Veterans can use retirement funds without penalties through Rollover Business Startups - Equipment Financing: The substantial equipment costs ($156-251K) often qualify for specialized equipment loans with favorable terms - Working Capital Lines: Banks typically view the membership model favorably for working capital credit lines **Veteran-Specific Advantages:** - Many veterans leverage their VA disability benefits as additional income streams while building the business - Military experience with complex systems aligns well with simulator technology management - Leadership and training experience translates directly to staff management and member instruction The technical nature of simulator operations aligns well with military experience managing complex systems, while the service-oriented business model appeals to veterans who want to continue serving their communities. The ideal owner has experience managing technical operations while building strong teams and maintaining high standards. Those who've handled complex systems, coordinated logistics, or managed training facilities tend to excel here. The automated aspects of the business reward operators who can build and follow solid processes. Veterans often excel in The Back Nine franchise because the business requires many skills developed in military service: attention to detail, systems thinking, customer service excellence, and the ability to maintain high standards consistently. The technical aspects of running simulators and managing facility operations require the kind of precision and reliability that military training instills.
Is The Back Nine the Right Franchise for Your Background?
Every veteran's transition is different. Your MOS, leadership experience, and financial goals all factor into which franchise makes sense. We've helped veterans across every branch find franchise businesses that match their strengths — not just their budget.
Find Your Franchise FitTalk to a veteran franchise consultant who's been where you are.
The Back Nine Training & Support
Initial training for up to three people is included in the initial franchise fee and takes place at the franchisor's headquarters or another designated location. Franchisees are responsible for all travel and related expenses incurred during training. The training covers simulator technology, software management, customer service protocols, and business operations. Ongoing training may be required, not exceeding 5 days per year, and remedial training may be imposed if performance standards are not met. The franchisor provides ongoing support for technical issues, marketing guidance, and operational best practices.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Back Nine
How much does a The Back Nine franchise cost?
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What is The Back Nine's FDD and where can I read it?
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