Opening a MOOYAH Burgers franchise is an exciting opportunity in the fast-casual dining segment, but like any restaurant venture, it requires significant upfront capital. Whether you need help covering the franchise fee, building out your location, or purchasing kitchen equipment, understanding your financing options is the first step to making your MOOYAH franchise a reality. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about securing a MOOYAH franchise loan in 2026.
MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes is a Texas-based fast-casual burger chain founded in 2007 in Plano, Texas. Known for its made-to-order burgers, hand-cut fries, and real ice cream shakes, MOOYAH has grown into a well-recognized brand with locations across the United States and internationally. The brand positions itself as a premium alternative in the better-burger segment, competing alongside names like Five Guys and Shake Shack.
MOOYAH differentiates itself through high-quality ingredients, a customizable menu, and a family-friendly dining experience. The brand focuses on fresh, never-frozen beef patties, real dairy shakes, and a selection of buns including gluten-free options. For potential franchisees, MOOYAH offers a proven business model with corporate support, training programs, and marketing assistance to help owners succeed.
The brand has consistently ranked in franchise opportunity publications and is recognized for its franchise support structure. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, franchise businesses benefit from established systems, brand recognition, and support networks that can improve the odds of business success compared to independent startups.
Before applying for a MOOYAH franchise loan, you need a clear picture of the total investment required. According to MOOYAH's Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), here is a breakdown of the key costs involved in opening a MOOYAH Burgers location:
| Cost Category | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements / Build-Out | $150,000 - $350,000 |
| Equipment, Fixtures & Signage | $100,000 - $200,000 |
| Initial Inventory & Supplies | $10,000 - $20,000 |
| Training Expenses | $5,000 - $15,000 |
| Working Capital (3 months) | $30,000 - $75,000 |
| Miscellaneous Opening Costs | $10,000 - $30,000 |
| Total Estimated Investment | $335,000 - $720,000 |
Figures are approximate estimates based on publicly available FDD data and industry benchmarks. Always review the current FDD for precise figures.
Beyond the initial investment, MOOYAH franchisees pay ongoing fees including a royalty of approximately 5-6% of gross sales and a marketing fund contribution of around 2% of gross sales. These ongoing obligations should factor into your cash flow projections when planning your financing strategy.
MOOYAH typically requires prospective franchisees to have a minimum net worth of around $500,000 and liquid assets (cash or readily accessible funds) of at least $200,000 to $250,000. These requirements align with typical franchise liquidity standards designed to ensure franchisees can sustain operations through the ramp-up period.
Get pre-qualified in minutes. Crestmont Capital works with franchisees across the U.S. to secure fast, flexible funding.
Apply Now - Free QuoteThere is no single loan product that fits every franchisee's needs. The right financing strategy depends on your credit profile, existing assets, how much equity you're contributing, and how quickly you need the funds. Here is a breakdown of the most common loan types used by MOOYAH franchise investors:
The SBA 7(a) loan program is one of the most popular tools for franchise financing. The SBA guarantees a portion of the loan (up to 85% for loans under $150,000 and up to 75% for loans over $150,000), which encourages lenders to offer more favorable terms to borrowers. SBA 7(a) loans can be used for equipment, leasehold improvements, working capital, and even the franchise fee.
The SBA maintains a Franchise Directory that lists approved franchise brands. MOOYAH has historically appeared on SBA-eligible lists, which makes SBA loans a viable route for many franchisees. Check the SBA's official loan programs page for the most current information.
If you plan to purchase commercial real estate for your MOOYAH location, an SBA 504 loan may be appropriate. This program provides long-term, fixed-rate financing for major fixed assets like buildings and heavy equipment. The structure involves a conventional lender covering 50% of the project, a Certified Development Company covering 40%, and the borrower contributing 10% as a down payment.
Restaurant equipment - grills, fryers, refrigeration units, POS systems, and more - represents a significant portion of the MOOYAH startup cost. Equipment financing allows you to purchase or lease the equipment you need while preserving working capital. The equipment itself serves as collateral, which often means more flexible credit requirements compared to unsecured loans.
Conventional business term loans from banks, credit unions, or alternative lenders provide a lump sum of capital that you repay over a set period with interest. For franchisees with strong credit profiles and business history, term loans can be competitive with SBA products, particularly when speed of funding matters.
A business line of credit gives you revolving access to capital up to a set limit. This is particularly useful for managing cash flow fluctuations after opening, covering unexpected repair costs, or funding marketing campaigns. Lines of credit complement your initial franchise loan rather than replacing it.
If your other financing covers equipment and build-out but you need additional operating funds, a working capital loan can fill the gap. These short-to-medium term loans are designed specifically for day-to-day operational expenses and can bridge cash flow gaps during the critical first months of operation.
Crestmont Capital is a leading business lender that works with franchise investors across the country to secure the funding they need to launch and grow their businesses. Unlike traditional banks that often have rigid requirements and slow approval timelines, Crestmont Capital offers flexible financing solutions tailored specifically to franchise owners.
Here is how Crestmont Capital can support your MOOYAH franchise journey:
Crestmont Capital has helped franchisees across the country secure financing for burger restaurants, fast-casual concepts, and a wide range of food service businesses. Our experience in the restaurant franchise space means we understand the FDD process, the lending criteria that matter most, and how to position your application for approval.
For additional perspective on how franchise financing works, you may also want to review our guides on Crumbl Cookie franchise financing and Dutch Bros franchise financing, which walk through similar processes for fast-casual and food service brands.
No obligation. No hard credit pull to get started. Our team will match you with the right loan product for your situation.
Start Your ApplicationLender requirements vary by product type, but here are the general eligibility standards you'll encounter when seeking MOOYAH franchise financing:
Understanding how financing might work in practice can help you plan your own application strategy. Here are three illustrative scenarios for MOOYAH franchise investors:
Maria has a credit score of 720, $150,000 in liquid assets, and five years of restaurant management experience. She wants to open a single MOOYAH location with an estimated total investment of $450,000. She contributes $90,000 (20%) as a down payment and applies for an SBA 7(a) loan for the remaining $360,000. Her strong credit, industry experience, and the brand's track record make her an excellent candidate. She secures approval within six weeks at a competitive interest rate with a 10-year repayment term.
James owns two successful quick-service restaurant locations with annual revenue exceeding $1.2 million. He wants to add a MOOYAH franchise to his portfolio. Because of his proven revenue and business history, he qualifies for a conventional business term loan without needing SBA backing. He secures $500,000 at a favorable rate with a seven-year term, using his existing business cash flow to support repayment projections.
Kevin has a credit score of 610 and $175,000 in savings. His total project cost is $400,000, with approximately $150,000 going toward kitchen and restaurant equipment. He splits his financing: an equipment loan covers $130,000 at favorable terms (equipment as collateral), while a working capital loan covers an additional $80,000 for build-out completion. He contributes the remaining funds from his savings. This layered approach maximizes his buying power while working within his current credit profile.
Applying for a MOOYAH franchise loan involves several steps. Here is a streamlined process to get you from inquiry to funding:
Preparing thorough documentation before you apply significantly accelerates the process. Lenders for SBA franchise loans will typically request your executed or pending franchise agreement, a letter of intent from your landlord, equipment quotes, and MOOYAH's Item 19 financial performance representations from the FDD.
It takes less than five minutes to get started. No obligation, no hard credit pull upfront.
Get Pre-Qualified NowThe total estimated investment to open a MOOYAH franchise ranges from approximately $335,000 to $720,000, depending on location, build-out complexity, and local construction costs. This includes the $30,000 franchise fee, leasehold improvements, equipment, initial inventory, and working capital reserves.
2. Can I use an SBA loan to finance a MOOYAH franchise?Yes. MOOYAH has been recognized as an SBA-eligible franchise, which means SBA 7(a) loans can be used to finance your franchise fee, equipment, leasehold improvements, and working capital. SBA loans offer competitive rates and longer repayment terms than conventional business loans.
3. What credit score do I need to get a MOOYAH franchise loan?For SBA loans, most lenders prefer a credit score of 650 or higher, with 680+ qualifying for the best terms. For alternative business loans and equipment financing, scores of 580-620 may still qualify depending on the lender, your industry experience, and your overall financial profile.
4. How much liquid capital do I need before applying for a MOOYAH franchise?MOOYAH's FDD indicates franchisees should have a minimum of approximately $200,000 to $250,000 in liquid assets (cash or readily accessible funds). This demonstrates to both the franchisor and lenders that you can sustain operations during the startup and ramp-up period.
5. How long does it take to get approved for a MOOYAH franchise loan?Approval timelines vary by loan type. SBA loans typically take four to eight weeks from application to funding. Conventional business loans and equipment financing can close in two to four weeks. Alternative lenders like Crestmont Capital can sometimes approve and fund within 24 to 72 hours for certain products.
6. Can I finance the MOOYAH franchise fee with a loan?Yes. The $30,000 MOOYAH franchise fee can typically be included in your SBA 7(a) loan request. Some alternative lenders also allow franchise fees to be financed as part of a business term loan or startup financing package.
7. What documents do I need to apply for a MOOYAH franchise loan?Standard documentation includes personal and business tax returns (two to three years), bank statements (three to six months), a copy of the franchise agreement or letter of intent, equipment quotes or invoices, a lease agreement or letter of intent from your landlord, a business plan with financial projections, and personal financial statements. Crestmont Capital guides you through the exact requirements for your chosen loan product.
8. Do I need previous restaurant experience to qualify for a MOOYAH franchise loan?Restaurant experience strengthens your application but is not always required. MOOYAH provides training for new franchisees, and lenders weigh the brand's established track record alongside your personal qualifications. Strong credit, sufficient liquidity, and a solid business plan can compensate for limited restaurant experience.
9. Can I open multiple MOOYAH locations with financing?Yes. Multi-unit franchise development agreements are available with MOOYAH. Financing multiple locations simultaneously or sequentially is possible, particularly for investors with strong financial profiles, proven operational success, and sufficient net worth. Lenders may structure these deals as portfolio loans or sequential SBA applications.
10. What is the royalty rate for MOOYAH franchises?MOOYAH's royalty rate is approximately 5-6% of gross sales, with an additional marketing fund contribution of approximately 2% of gross sales. These recurring fees should be factored into your financial projections and cash flow analysis when planning your loan amount.
11. Is equipment financing separate from my main franchise loan?It can be. Many franchisees use a combination of financing products - for example, an SBA loan for build-out and working capital plus a separate equipment financing line for kitchen equipment. This layered approach can optimize rates and terms across different asset categories.
12. Can I refinance my MOOYAH franchise loan after opening?Yes. Once your franchise is operational and generating revenue, you may qualify to refinance your existing debt at lower rates or adjust your repayment structure. Many franchise owners refinance after 12-24 months of operation to improve their cash flow and reduce interest costs.
13. What happens if my MOOYAH franchise loan application is denied?A denial from one lender does not close all doors. Different lenders have different requirements, and alternative financing options exist for most situations. If your SBA application is denied, conventional loans, equipment financing, or alternative working capital products may still be available. Crestmont Capital helps you identify the best path forward regardless of prior denials.
14. Does MOOYAH offer any in-house financing for franchisees?MOOYAH does not typically offer direct in-house financing, but the brand may have relationships with preferred lenders who are familiar with the franchise model. Working with a lender like Crestmont Capital that has experience with fast-casual restaurant franchises can accelerate the approval process regardless of franchisor-specific lender relationships.
15. How does the fast-casual restaurant market affect my loan approval chances?The fast-casual sector's strong performance metrics generally work in your favor with lenders. According to industry data, fast-casual restaurants have lower failure rates compared to full-service concepts, and the category continues to show strong consumer demand. Lenders familiar with the segment view MOOYAH's market positioning favorably when evaluating franchise loan applications.
Opening a MOOYAH Burgers franchise is a meaningful financial commitment, but with the right financing strategy, it is an achievable goal for qualified investors. The $335,000 to $720,000 total investment range can be covered through a combination of SBA loans, equipment financing, working capital loans, and your personal equity contribution. Understanding your options before you start the franchising process gives you a significant advantage - both in negotiating your franchise agreement and in securing the best possible loan terms.
Crestmont Capital specializes in helping franchise owners navigate the financing process from pre-qualification through funding. Our team understands the restaurant franchise market, the SBA loan process, and the alternative financing products that can fill gaps where traditional lending falls short. Whether you have excellent credit or need a solution for a more complex financial situation, we have options designed to help you succeed.
The fast-casual segment continues to perform strongly, and MOOYAH's brand positioning in the better-burger category makes it a compelling franchise opportunity. Do not let financing uncertainty slow your momentum - get pre-qualified today and take the next step toward opening your MOOYAH Burgers location.
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.