Dawn Bent, owner of Signarama in Huntington Station, New York, has been recognized by the International Franchise Association as a Featured Franchisee in the November/December 2025 issue of Franchising World magazine. With 37+ years of successful franchise ownership, Dawn represents the longest-tenured franchisee in United Franchise Group’s portfolio and serves as a powerful example of what’s possible through franchising.
IFA Recognizes 37 Years of Franchise Success
The International Franchise Association’s Featured Franchisees section highlights franchise owners who demonstrate exceptional business acumen, community involvement, and commitment to their brands. Dawn’s selection for this honor reflects not just her business success, but her impact on the franchise industry as a whole.
Since opening her first Signarama location in 1988 with her father, Nick Ziccardi, Dawn has built a thriving sign business that now employs 27 artisans, craftspeople, and welders. The business includes her brother and business partner, Mike Ziccardi, making it a true multi-generational family enterprise.
Breaking Barriers for Women in Sign Franchising
Dawn’s Huntington location has earned recognition from the City and State of New York’s Women-Owned Business Enterprise program—a distinction that reflects her commitment to diversity in the trades. As one of the most successful women franchise owners in the sign industry, Dawn has made it her mission to create opportunities for others.
In her Franchising World feature, Dawn explained: “I am deeply committed to coaching and mentoring new designers and other coming into the trade, particularly women. Now we see women out there on the job sites doing installations and project management at all stages. I endeavor to make the pathway for women in the sign industry to be imagined and attainable.”
What Makes This Signarama Franchise Successful
Dawn’s 37+ year track record offers valuable insights for prospective franchisees:
Modern Technology Meets Traditional Craftsmanship
Dawn’s team leverages cutting-edge sign-making technology while maintaining the high-quality craftsmanship that built the business. This combination allows them to produce superior signage efficiently, staying competitive across decades of industry evolution.
Strong Franchise Support System
As part of United Franchise Group’s portfolio, Signarama franchisees benefit from comprehensive training, operational support, and proven business systems. Dawn’s longevity demonstrates the strength of this support structure.
Scalability and Growth Potential
From a startup business with her father to a 27-person operation, Dawn’s franchise shows the growth trajectory possible within the Signarama system. The business has scaled while maintaining quality and profitability.
Signarama Masters Academy: Training the Next Generation
Dawn’s impact extends throughout the Signarama franchise network. Her shop has developed a Masters Academy program that trains other franchisees in advanced sign fabrication techniques, passing along the expertise accumulated over 37+ years.
Dawn shared her vision for the future: “As we look ahead, I would like to introduce young designers and makers to the sign industry with increased offerings at trade programs and vocational schooling.” This commitment to mentorship strengthens the entire franchise system.
Why This IFA Recognition Matters for Prospective Franchisees
Third-party recognition from the International Franchise Association—the world’s oldest and largest organization representing franchising—validates what successful Signarama franchisees already know. The IFA doesn’t feature franchisees lightly; they select owners who exemplify excellence in business operations, community engagement, and brand representation.
For entrepreneurs evaluating sign franchise opportunities, Dawn’s story provides concrete evidence of long-term franchise success, multi-generational wealth building, and the support system that makes it possible.
Learn More About Signarama Franchise Opportunities
Dawn Bent’s journey from opening her first shop in 1988 to being featured in Franchising World magazine demonstrates the potential of Signarama franchise ownership. Whether you’re looking to enter the sign industry, build a family business, or create a lasting legacy in your community, Signarama offers a proven path forward.
Signarama is part of United Franchise Group, a global franchise organization operating 11 brands across 80+ countries with 1,800+ franchisees. The comprehensive support system, established brand recognition, and proven business model help franchisees succeed in competitive markets.
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Related Resources
Read Dawn Bent’s Full Success Story
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