9Round Franchise Loan: The Complete Financing Guide for 9Round Franchise Owners

9Round is one of the fastest-growing kickboxing fitness franchises in the United States, offering a unique 30-minute circuit training workout that has attracted hundreds of thousands of members worldwide. If you are ready to join the 9Round family as a franchise owner, understanding your financing options is the critical first step. This guide covers everything you need to know about securing a 9Round franchise loan, from startup costs to SBA programs to how Crestmont Capital can help you get funded fast.

What Is 9Round?

Founded in 2008 by Shannon "The Cannon" Hudson, a professional kickboxer and world champion, 9Round has grown from a single gym in Greenville, South Carolina, into a global franchise with more than 700 locations across multiple countries. The concept is built around a unique 30-minute kickboxing circuit workout that combines boxing, kickboxing, and functional fitness moves into nine stations that change every three minutes.

What sets 9Round apart from other fitness franchises is its no-class-times model. Members can start their workout at any time during open hours, giving them maximum scheduling flexibility. Each studio employs a certified trainer on the floor at all times to coach, motivate, and correct form - creating a personalized experience without the premium price tag of private training.

9Round's business model is designed to be accessible for first-time franchise owners. The footprint is small (typically 1,200 to 1,700 square feet), the equipment requirements are standardized, and the staffing model is lean. These factors combine to keep startup costs significantly lower than many competing fitness franchises while still offering a premium member experience.

As the boutique fitness sector continues to grow - according to Forbes, boutique fitness studios now account for more than 35 percent of health club industry revenue - 9Round is well-positioned to attract new franchise investors who want to capitalize on this trend.

9Round Franchise Costs Overview

Before applying for a 9Round franchise loan, you need a clear picture of the total investment required. 9Round is considered one of the more affordable fitness franchise opportunities on the market, but the total investment still ranges significantly depending on your location, lease terms, build-out requirements, and local market conditions.

Initial Franchise Fee

The initial 9Round franchise fee is approximately $29,900. This fee grants you the right to operate under the 9Round brand in your designated territory and includes initial training, onboarding support, and access to the franchisor's proprietary systems and marketing materials.

Total Estimated Investment Range

According to 9Round's Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), the total estimated initial investment for a single 9Round location ranges from approximately $87,000 to $174,000. This range reflects variations in:

• Leasehold improvements and build-out costs: $20,000 to $65,000
• Equipment and fixtures: $25,000 to $45,000
• Initial inventory (wraps, gloves, merchandise): $3,000 to $8,000
• Signage: $5,000 to $15,000
• Technology and software: $3,000 to $7,000
• Working capital (3 months): $10,000 to $25,000
• Opening marketing and advertising: $5,000 to $15,000
• Miscellaneous pre-opening expenses: $3,000 to $8,000

Ongoing Fees

After opening, franchisees pay ongoing royalties and marketing contributions:

• Royalty fee: $499 to $699 per month (flat fee based on membership tiers, not a percentage of revenue)
• Marketing fund contribution: $199 to $299 per month

The flat-fee royalty structure is a significant advantage for 9Round franchisees. Unlike percentage-based royalties that increase as revenue grows, flat fees remain predictable, allowing owners to capture more profit as their membership base expands.

Financing Options for 9Round Franchisees

Financing a 9Round franchise does not have to be complicated. Several financing paths are available depending on your credit profile, available collateral, time in business, and personal financial situation. Most 9Round franchise buyers use a combination of funding sources to cover the full investment.

1. SBA Loans

Small Business Administration (SBA) loan programs are widely used to finance franchise startups. The SBA 7(a) program and SBA 504 program both support franchise investments, and SBA loans often offer the most favorable terms - including low interest rates, longer repayment periods, and lower down payments than conventional commercial loans. We cover SBA loans in detail in the next section.

2. Equipment Financing

A significant portion of your 9Round startup costs will go toward kickboxing bags, speed bags, cardio equipment, floor mats, mirrors, and other studio equipment. Equipment financing lets you acquire these assets with a dedicated loan secured by the equipment itself, preserving working capital for other startup expenses. Equipment loans typically require 10 to 20 percent down and offer repayment terms of 24 to 84 months.

3. Business Term Loans

Small business term loans provide a lump sum of capital that you repay over a fixed schedule with interest. They are flexible in how the funds can be used - covering leasehold improvements, working capital, marketing, and more. Term loans from alternative lenders can often be approved and funded in 24 to 72 hours, making them ideal for covering time-sensitive expenses.

4. Business Line of Credit

A business line of credit gives you a revolving credit facility you can draw from as needed. This is particularly useful during the pre-opening and ramp-up phase of your 9Round franchise, when cash flow may be unpredictable. Draw what you need, repay it, and draw again - paying interest only on what you use.

5. Personal Funds and Rollover for Business Startups (ROBS)

Many franchise owners contribute personal savings or use a ROBS arrangement to access retirement account funds tax-penalty-free for business investment. ROBS is a complex strategy that requires specialized legal and financial setup, but it can be an excellent way to cover the equity injection required by SBA lenders (typically 10 to 30 percent of total project costs).

Loan Type Comparison

SBA Loans for 9Round Franchise

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) does not lend money directly. Instead, it guarantees a portion of loans made by approved lenders, reducing risk for the bank and enabling better terms for the borrower. The SBA Franchise Directory lists approved franchise brands - and working with a franchisor listed on the directory streamlines the SBA underwriting process significantly.

SBA 7(a) Loan Program

The SBA 7(a) loan is the most versatile SBA program and the most common choice for franchise financing. Key features include:

• Maximum loan amount: $5 million
• Interest rates: Prime rate plus 2.25 to 2.75 percent (capped by SBA)
• Repayment terms: Up to 10 years for working capital; up to 25 years for real estate
• Down payment requirement: Typically 10 to 20 percent of total project costs
• Uses: Franchise fee, build-out, equipment, working capital, and more

For a 9Round franchise with a total project cost of $140,000, you might expect to need $14,000 to $28,000 as an equity injection while the SBA-backed loan covers the remainder. According to SBA.gov, the 7(a) program funded more than 57,000 loans worth over $27 billion in fiscal year 2023 alone, making it the backbone of small business startup financing in the United States.

SBA Express Loan

For smaller loan amounts (up to $500,000), the SBA Express program offers a faster decision timeline - typically within 36 hours. This is useful if you need to move quickly on a franchise opportunity or if your funding needs fall on the lower end of the 9Round investment range. The SBA guarantees 50 percent of Express loans versus 75-85 percent for standard 7(a) loans, which can result in slightly higher rates.

How to Use SBA Loans for 9Round

A well-structured SBA loan for a 9Round franchise might look like this:

• Total project cost: $130,000
• Borrower equity injection (10%): $13,000
• SBA 7(a) loan: $117,000
• Monthly payment (10 years, ~9%): approximately $1,480/month

Given that a successful 9Round location may generate $15,000 to $25,000 or more in monthly revenue, loan servicing represents a manageable obligation that allows the business to build positive cash flow relatively quickly after the ramp-up period.

9Round franchise owners benefit from a lean operating model and a passionate membership community.

How to Qualify for a Franchise Loan

Lenders - whether SBA-approved banks or alternative lenders like Crestmont Capital - evaluate franchise loan applications using a combination of personal and business financial criteria. Understanding these requirements helps you prepare a stronger application and improve your approval odds.

Credit Score Requirements

SBA lenders typically require a minimum personal credit score of 680 to 700 for franchise loans, though some lenders may work with borrowers down to 650 with compensating factors. Alternative lenders may approve applicants with scores as low as 580 to 620 for non-SBA products like term loans and equipment financing. If you have credit challenges, consider reviewing our guide on bad credit business loans for options that may still work for your situation.

Time in Business

Since 9Round is a franchise startup, you likely do not have business history to present. SBA startup loans are designed to fill this gap - they evaluate your personal financial history, the franchise brand's track record, and the viability of your business plan rather than requiring existing business revenue.

Liquidity and Net Worth

SBA lenders want to see that you have sufficient personal financial resources to weather early-stage challenges. Most want to see liquid assets (cash or near-cash) of at least 20 to 30 percent of the total loan amount, plus a positive net worth (assets exceeding liabilities).

Business Plan and Financial Projections

A solid business plan is essential for franchise startup loans. Your plan should include:

• Executive summary of your 9Round location and target market
• Demographic analysis of your territory
• Revenue projections for months 1 through 36
• Break-even analysis
• Management background and relevant experience
• Competitive landscape analysis

The SBA also wants to see a signed franchise agreement or letter of intent from 9Round before approving a startup franchise loan. This demonstrates that you have a legitimate franchise relationship in place.

Collateral

For SBA 7(a) loans under $500,000, lenders are not required to decline the loan solely due to insufficient collateral. However, they are required to take available collateral when it exists. Common collateral includes personal real estate, business assets, and equipment. For loans over $350,000, lenders must take all available collateral up to the loan amount.

How Crestmont Capital Helps

At Crestmont Capital, we specialize in connecting business owners and franchise investors with the right financing solutions for their specific needs. As the number one business lender in the United States, we have helped thousands of entrepreneurs access capital quickly and efficiently - and franchise financing is one of our core strengths.

What Sets Crestmont Capital Apart

• Speed: Most of our loan products can be approved and funded in 24 to 72 hours, compared to 4 to 8 weeks for traditional bank SBA loans.
• Flexibility: We work with borrowers across a wide range of credit profiles and business situations, including startups and those with less-than-perfect credit.
• Expert guidance: Our team understands franchise financing inside and out. We help you determine which loan products make the most sense for your 9Round investment, whether that means an SBA loan, equipment financing, a term loan, or a combination.
• One application, multiple offers: Apply once and receive offers from multiple lending partners, saving you time and allowing you to compare terms.

Our 9Round Financing Products

Depending on your qualifications and needs, Crestmont Capital can help you access:

• SBA 7(a) franchise loans for full-project financing with the best available rates and terms
• Equipment financing for your kickboxing bags, fitness equipment, and studio buildout assets
• Business term loans for working capital, marketing, and pre-opening expenses - available through our fast business loan programs
• Business lines of credit to manage cash flow during your ramp-up phase
• Long-term business loans for borrowers who need extended repayment periods - see our long-term business loan options

The Infographic: How 9Round Franchise Financing Works

Real-World Financing Scenarios

To help you understand how 9Round franchise financing might work in practice, here are several detailed scenarios representing different borrower profiles and financing approaches.

Scenario 1: First-Time Franchise Owner Using SBA 7(a)

Profile: Marketing manager with 12 years of corporate experience, 720 credit score, $40,000 in savings, owns a home with $80,000 in equity.

Total project cost: $145,000

Financing approach: SBA 7(a) loan through Crestmont Capital for $120,000, with a $25,000 equity injection from personal savings.

Terms: 10-year repayment, approximately 9.5% interest (prime + 2.5%), monthly payment of approximately $1,550.

Outcome: Location opens on budget. By month 8, the studio crosses 100 members generating $10,000+ in monthly revenue, covering loan payments with room for owner compensation.

Scenario 2: Multi-Unit Buyer Expanding from One to Three Locations

Profile: Existing 9Round franchisee with one profitable location, 18 months in operation, $200,000 in annual revenue, 690 credit score.

Total project cost: $280,000 (two new locations)

Financing approach: SBA 7(a) loan backed by existing business cash flow and real estate collateral for $240,000, with $40,000 from business retained earnings.

Terms: 10-year term, competitive interest rate reflecting established business history.

Outcome: Both new locations open within six months. Combined three-location revenue exceeds $600,000 annually within 24 months.

Scenario 3: Equipment Financing Plus Term Loan Combination

Profile: Personal trainer with fitness industry experience, 640 credit score, limited savings but strong industry knowledge.

Total project cost: $110,000

Financing approach: Equipment loan for $35,000 (kickboxing equipment, mirrors, flooring) plus a small business financing term loan of $50,000 for leasehold improvements and working capital. Remaining $25,000 from personal savings and a family member loan.

Terms: Equipment loan at 12% for 48 months ($930/month); term loan at 18% for 24 months ($2,500/month).

Outcome: Studio opens and achieves break-even by month 5. Personal trainer background helps attract 60+ members in the first 90 days.

Scenario 4: Veteran Using SBA Veterans Advantage Program

Profile: Retired Army sergeant, 710 credit score, $50,000 in savings from TSP (Thrift Savings Plan), VA home loan on primary residence.

Total project cost: $130,000

Financing approach: SBA 7(a) loan with Veterans Advantage waived fees for $110,000, $20,000 equity injection from personal savings.

Terms: 10 years, reduced fees saving approximately $2,750 upfront compared to standard SBA origination fees.

Outcome: Veteran leverages leadership and discipline background to build a tight-knit gym community. Reaches 150 members in year one.

Scenario 5: Couple Co-Investing in Franchise Opportunity

Profile: Married couple - one works in healthcare, one in education. Combined income of $180,000 annually. 730 credit scores, $60,000 in savings.

Total project cost: $155,000

Financing approach: SBA 7(a) loan for $120,000 with $35,000 equity injection. Both spouses are named on the loan, strengthening the overall application.

Terms: 10 years at approximately 9.25% interest.

Outcome: One spouse manages operations while the other maintains day job during the ramp-up period. The 9Round location becomes cash-flow positive in month 7, allowing both partners to eventually work the business full time.

Scenario 6: Investor Using Line of Credit as Bridge Financing

Profile: Established entrepreneur with multiple businesses, 760 credit score, strong cash flow across existing operations.

Total project cost: $95,000

Financing approach: Uses a $75,000 business line of credit to fund opening costs while SBA application processes. Once SBA loan closes (six weeks), line of credit is repaid and remains available for ongoing needs.

Outcome: Studio opens immediately without waiting for SBA approval. The bridge financing strategy allows the franchisee to capture a desirable location in a competitive market.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Get Started: Next Steps

Conclusion

Opening a 9Round franchise is an exciting opportunity for fitness enthusiasts and business-minded entrepreneurs alike. The brand's proven concept, loyal member base, and lower-than-average startup costs make it an attractive entry point into the boutique fitness sector. But like any business, success starts with sound financial planning.

Understanding your total investment, exploring the right financing products, building a strong loan application, and working with experienced lenders are all critical steps on the path to opening your 9Round studio. Whether you pursue an SBA loan for the most favorable terms or use fast-funding alternatives to move quickly, Crestmont Capital has the products, expertise, and speed to help you succeed.

According to CNBC, the fitness industry continues to recover strongly from pandemic lows, with consumer spending on health and wellness at record highs. And Wall Street Journal reporting confirms that boutique fitness studios are enjoying renewed growth as consumers prioritize community-driven workouts. The timing to invest in a 9Round franchise has rarely been better.

Ready to take the next step? Apply with Crestmont Capital today and get matched with the best franchise loan options for your 9Round journey.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and is not financial, legal, or tax advice. Funding terms, qualifications, and product availability may vary and are subject to change without notice. Crestmont Capital does not guarantee approval, rates, or specific outcomes. For personalized information about your business funding options, contact our team directly.