Are you dreaming of owning a donut shop but working with a limited startup budget? The good news is: you don’t need a million dollars to break into the donut business. Several reputable donut franchises in 2025 offer startup costs under $300,000, making them ideal for first-time entrepreneurs, small investors, and foodservice veterans alike.
In this guide, we highlight the best donut franchises under $300K — including their investment range, brand strengths, and why they’re worth considering.
✅ Why Choose a Donut Franchise Under $300K?
- Lower risk – Manageable startup costs and less exposure to debt
- Faster ROI – Smaller footprint and faster breakeven periods
- Proven models – All listed brands are operating with multiple units
- Flexible formats – Options for mobile, kiosk, or brick-and-mortar setups
🍩 Top 8 Donut Franchises You Can Own for Under $300K
1. Daylight Donuts
- Initial Investment: $150,000 – $400,000
- Franchise Fee: $10,000
- Locations: 400+
- Why It’s Great:
One of the most affordable full-scale donut shop franchises. Known for flexibility, low franchise fees, and great regional support.
2. Fractured Prune
- Initial Investment: $150,000 – $300,000
- Franchise Fee: $35,000
- Locations: 20+
- Why It’s Great:
Offers hot, hand-dipped customizable donuts. Perfect for tourist towns, beach areas, and fun experiential food markets.
3. DonutNV
- Initial Investment: $174,000 – $274,000
- Franchise Fee: $29,000
- Locations: 50+
- Why It’s Great:
A mobile donut franchise operating out of trailers or food trucks. Minimal overhead and fast setup.
4. Peace, Love & Little Donuts
- Initial Investment: $240,000 – $370,000
- Franchise Fee: $30,000
- Locations: 30+
- Why It’s Great:
Funky, retro mini-donut concept with tons of personality. Good fit for college towns and urban neighborhoods.
5. Dapper Doughnut
- Initial Investment: $200,000 – $350,000
- Franchise Fee: $35,000
- Locations: 25+
- Why It’s Great:
Specializes in hot mini donuts. Available in kiosk, cart, or brick-and-mortar formats.
6. Tasty Donuts
- Initial Investment: $200,000 – $300,000
- Franchise Fee: $25,000
- Locations: 20+
- Why It’s Great:
Simple, traditional donut shops ideal for neighborhoods and small cities.
7. Oh My Donuts
- Initial Investment: $175,000 – $250,000
- Franchise Fee: $20,000
- Locations: 10+
- Why It’s Great:
Boutique donut shop with premium toppings and trendy visual branding. Great for urban or Instagram-driven markets.
8. Dripp Donuts
- Initial Investment: $180,000 – $250,000
- Franchise Fee: $20,000
- Locations: 10+
- Why It’s Great:
Stylish, modern brand focused on gourmet flavors, visual presentation, and premium experiences.
💡 Tips Before You Invest
- Always ask for the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) before committing
- Compare ongoing royalty fees and store formats (mobile, kiosk, full store)
- Assess local demand and competition in your target area
- Speak with current franchisees when possible
🧠 Not Sure Which Donut Brand Is Right for You?
Let us help you compare brands and match you with the right investment based on your location, budget, and goals.
👉 Download the Free Donut Franchise Comparison Guide
👉 Contact Our Franchise Advisors
🏁 Final Thoughts
You don’t need a huge budget to get started in the donut business. These under $300K donut franchises provide a sweet opportunity to build a profitable, fun, and scalable business. With the right brand, location, and commitment — your dream donut shop can become a reality in 2025.