About

Discover Our Story

In the year 1993, a man named Robert A. Needham left behind the stunning landscapes of Colorado Springs and set his sights on Birmingham, Alabama. Driven by boundless curiosity and ambitious dreams, he embarked on a journey with a determination to both learn and create a lasting impact on the world. Robert had previously experimented with entrepreneurship having birthed his own venture, Robert A. Needham and Associates, in 1986. This modest enterprise gradually evolved into something grander – the renowned SPECTRUM Advanced Markets, Inc. just prior to his graduation from law school. A haven for innovative and ingenious ideas, SPECTRUM became synonymous with creativity and innovation.

Dr. Robert A. Needham (Founder/CEO)

By 1996, Robert had successfully navigated his studies and business acumen. However, his hunger for progress remained. He explored the realm of business and franchise development, catalyzing a pivotal shift in the way business practices were approached and executed. A decade later, Robert's ingenuity brought forth yet another enterprise. He introduced the world to FranchiseInc!, LLC, a brainchild that materialized with the support of SAMI's franchise consulting expertise. This groundbreaking concept redefined collaboration in the workplace, fostering numerous avenues for growth and opportunity ultimately paving the way for the establishment of over a hundred broker offices and the growth of three hundred franchisor brands.

Amidst the economic collapse of 2008, he delved into the concepts of sharing and teamwork, a journey that culminated in the creation of four insightful books, including the notable "Escaping Economic Slavery – A Journey from Scarcity to Abundance Through Sharing Capitalism." In 2011, FranchiseInc! transitioned into an entity of independent brokers, underscoring the transformative power of change.

In 2022, as the world emerged from the pandemic, so did Dr. Needham and his evolving ventures. It was during this time that Robert introduced Collaborative Franchise Systems (CFS). This revolutionary framework united individuals in the pursuit of growth, sharing, and the equitable distribution of success. Drawing upon his decades-long journey in franchise mastery, Robert forged ahead elevating CFS to new heights.

Today numerous individuals and companies are joining forces with Dr. Needham and the CFS team, aligning with the innovative spirit and unwavering perseverance that have defined the organization's path. CFS champions novelty and embraces challenges, offering a warm embrace to those seeking improved prospects. CFS functions as a haven where collaborative support thrives, and success transcends its mere definition.

We invite you to join us in what we believe can be an exceptional expedition for you! Become part of a venture where dreams serve as guides and groundbreaking ideas illuminate the way forward. Immerse yourself in the narrative of Collaborative Franchise Systems – a narrative that has redefined business

Discover Our Story

In the year 1993, a man named Robert A. Needham left behind the stunning landscapes of Colorado Springs and set his sights on Birmingham, Alabama. Driven by boundless curiosity and ambitious dreams, he embarked on a journey with a determination to both learn and create a lasting impact on the world. Robert had previously experimented with entrepreneurship having birthed his own venture, Robert A. Needham and Associates, in 1986. This modest enterprise gradually evolved into something grander – the renowned SPECTRUM Advanced Markets, Inc. just prior to his graduation from law school. A haven for innovative and ingenious ideas, SPECTRUM became synonymous with creativity and innovation.

Dr. Robert A. Needham (Founder/CEO)

By 1996, Robert had successfully navigated his studies and business acumen. However, his hunger for progress remained. He explored the realm of business and franchise development, catalyzing a pivotal shift in the way business practices were approached and executed. A decade later, Robert's ingenuity brought forth yet another enterprise. He introduced the world to FranchiseInc!, LLC, a brainchild that materialized with the support of SAMI's franchise consulting expertise. This groundbreaking concept redefined collaboration in the workplace, fostering numerous avenues for growth and opportunity ultimately paving the way for the establishment of over a hundred broker offices and the growth of three hundred franchisor brands.

Amidst the economic collapse of 2008, he delved into the concepts of sharing and teamwork, a journey that culminated in the creation of four insightful books, including the notable "Escaping Economic Slavery – A Journey from Scarcity to Abundance Through Sharing Capitalism." In 2011, FranchiseInc! transitioned into an entity of independent brokers, underscoring the transformative power of change.

In 2022, as the world emerged from the pandemic, so did Dr. Needham and his evolving ventures. It was during this time that Robert introduced Collaborative Franchise Systems (CFS). This revolutionary framework united individuals in the pursuit of growth, sharing, and the equitable distribution of success. Drawing upon his decades-long journey in franchise mastery, Robert forged ahead elevating CFS to new heights.

Today numerous individuals and companies are joining forces with Dr. Needham and the CFS team, aligning with the innovative spirit and unwavering perseverance that have defined the organization's path. CFS champions novelty and embraces challenges, offering a warm embrace to those seeking improved prospects. CFS functions as a haven where collaborative support thrives, and success transcends its mere definition.

We invite you to join us in what we believe can be an exceptional expedition for you! Become part of a venture where dreams serve as guides and groundbreaking ideas illuminate the way forward. Immerse yourself in the narrative of Collaborative Franchise Systems – a narrative that has redefined business

Our Purpose

Collaborative Franchise Systems, LLC (CFS) is your ultimate collaborative team of industry experts, led by Dr. Robert A. Needham, an Air Force veteran with over 30 years of strategic business and franchise expertise. As a renowned franchisor, franchise advisor, and executive, Dr. Needham has an exceptional track record of assisting clients in achieving unparalleled success. What sets CFS apart is our passion for empowering new businesses to franchise their concepts with ease.

Our dedicated development team, including legal experts, delivers a turnkey franchise system at a highly competitive price. With CFS, you can transform your business into a thriving franchise concept, unlocking incredible growth potential for your business. But That's Not All!

For aspiring franchisees seeking to capitalize on lucrative opportunities, CFS offers unmatched assistance in purchasing the perfect franchise. Leverage our extensive experience and wealth of knowledge to embark on a journey toward wealth creation. If You're An Existing Franchisor Looking To Revitalize Your Growth, look no further than our Franchise Refresh program. Our expert team will work tirelessly to reignite your success and take your franchise to new heights. Need Advisory Services? At Collaborative Franchise Systems, we take pride in serving every segment of the franchise industry with top-notch advisory and coaching services. Our personalized approach ensures that you receive tailored guidance and support for your unique business needs. Unlock the full potential of your franchise journey. Partner with CFS today and let us be the driving force behind your franchise's success!

Our Purpose

Collaborative Franchise Systems, LLC (CFS) is your ultimate collaborative team of industry experts, led by Dr. Robert A. Needham, an Air Force veteran with over 30 years of strategic business and franchise expertise. As a renowned franchisor, franchise advisor, and executive, Dr. Needham has an exceptional track record of assisting clients in achieving unparalleled success. What sets CFS apart is our passion for empowering new businesses to franchise their concepts with ease.

Our dedicated development team, including legal experts, delivers a turnkey franchise system at a highly competitive price. With CFS, you can transform your business into a thriving franchise concept, unlocking incredible growth potential for your business. But That's Not All!

For aspiring franchisees seeking to capitalize on lucrative opportunities, CFS offers unmatched assistance in purchasing the perfect franchise. Leverage our extensive experience and wealth of knowledge to embark on a journey toward wealth creation. If You're An Existing Franchisor Looking To Revitalize Your Growth, look no further than our Franchise Refresh program. Our expert team will work tirelessly to reignite your success and take your franchise to new heights. Need Advisory Services? At Collaborative Franchise Systems, we take pride in serving every segment of the franchise industry with top-notch advisory and coaching services. Our personalized approach ensures that you receive tailored guidance and support for your unique business needs. Unlock the full potential of your franchise journey. Partner with CFS today and let us be the driving force behind your franchise's success!

Ready to serve you!

Meet Our Team

No question is too small. Our goal is simple—bring your vision to life.

Dr. Needham
Dr. Needham

Founder, CEO, Sr. Advisor

JD, PhD

Tina Tompkins
Tina Tompkins

Project Lead

CFA

Steve Chelette
Steve Chelette

Project Lead

CFA

Norma Shirk
Norma Shirk

Compliance

JD, CFA

Mike Bullinger
Mike Bullinger

Project Lead

MBA, CFC, CFA

John O'Conell
John O'Conell

Project Lead

CFA

Jackie Ambrow
Jackie Ambrow

Collboration Coordinator

CFA

Rich Jarvis
Rich Jarvis

Project Lead

Collaborator

David Rose
David Rose

Business Development

CFA

Xochitl T. Suriano Ambrow
Xochitl T. Suriano Ambrow

Project Manager

CFA

Cindy Kennedy
Cindy Kennedy

Project Lead / Broker

FBA

Regina Crawford
Regina Crawford

Project Lead

CFA

Ready to serve you!

Meet Our Team

No question is too small. Our goal is simple—bring your vision to life.

Dr. Needham
Dr. Needham

Founder, CEO, Sr. Advisor

JD, PhD

Tina Tompkins
Tina Tompkins

Project Lead

CFA

Steve Chelette
Steve Chelette

Project Lead

CFA

Norma Shirk
Norma Shirk

Compliance

JD, CFA

Mike Bullinger
Mike Bullinger

Project Lead

MBA, CFC, CFA

John O'Conell
John O'Conell

Project Lead

CFA

Jackie Ambrow
Jackie Ambrow

Collboration Coordinator

CFA

Rich Jarvis
Rich Jarvis

Project Lead

Collaborator

David Rose
David Rose

Business Development

CFA

Xochitl T. Suriano Ambrow
Xochitl T. Suriano Ambrow

Project Manager

CFA

Cindy Kennedy
Cindy Kennedy

Project Lead/Broker

FBA

Regina Crawford
Regina Crawford

Project Lead

CFA

Meet Our Clients!

We think you'll be pleasantly surprised by the variety of concepts available in the franchise space.

Meet Our Clients!

We think you'll be pleasantly surprised by the variety of concepts available in the franchise space.