Music School Franchise Acquires Funding and Leverages Local Partnerships for Business Launch

When husband and wife Vincent and Trazanna Moreno were ready to open their first business—a School of Rock franchise—they needed help securing funding, so, referred by their SBA loan provider, they connected with the Sam Houston State University Small Business Development Center (SHSU SBDC) for guidance. 

The Challenge 

Launching a franchise location required more than passion—it meant creating a lender-ready business plan, preparing detailed financial projections, and navigating commercial real estate, permitting and legal requirements. Without a background in these areas, the Morenos needed expert guidance to move forward. 

The Solution

Vincent Moreno says, “Having the guidance from the SBDC was an essential first step into treading the unfamiliar waters of opening a business... The information and resources provided by the SBDC help a business owner ensure that they are on the right path to creating a successful business.”  

The Morenos' SBDC Business Advisor, Eric Garcia, provided comprehensive support. He assisted with not just business plan development and financial projections, but also loan packaging, construction permits and connecting the couple to local resource partners and a qualified real estate attorney. 

Vincent Moreno notes, “Working with Eric Garcia made our progress into opening our first business easier by providing the knowledge and resources needed and ensuring that we had everything needed.”

The Results

With the help of the SBDC, the Morenos successfully secured an SBA 7(a) loan from a local bank, allowing them to purchase property in Fulshear, TX to serve as the new home for the music school.  

Since then, the Morenos have continued to nurture their relationship with the local chamber of commerce and independent school district, which has led to early collaboration opportunities well ahead of the business’s official grand opening.

Garcia says, “It was a true pleasure working with a client who stayed attentive and fully engaged throughout the process. [The Morenos] took initiative, focused on the task at hand and completed each step—making collaboration smooth, efficient and highly productive.” 

School of Rock is a dynamic franchise dedicated to cultivating aspiring musicians by blending traditional instruction with high-energy stage performance and song-based learning. Its programs are tailored for individuals from age 4 to adults. This method integrates one-on-one lessons with group band practices, creating a holistic and engaging music education experience.